The 10 Best Music Festivals In Ohio

Music festivals are memorable experiences that bring people together to enjoy good music and good company. Ohio is home to some of the best music festivals in the country, and we’ve compiled a list of the top ten for you to check out.

1. Nelsonville Music Festival

Nelsonville, Ohio

When: May-June (four days)

The Nelsonville Music Festival is a four-day music and arts festival that features a wide range of musical genres, including folk, rock, bluegrass, country, and more. There are also plenty of food and drink vendors on-site, as well as artisans selling handmade goods.

CAAMP at the 2020 Virtual Nelsonville Music FestivalCAAMP at the 2020 Virtual Nelsonville Music Festival

Produced by Stuart’s Opera House, the festival aims to showcase local and regional talent, as well as provide a platform for up-and-coming artists, and also support environmentally-friendly initiatives. Families and friends will love spending time together at this annual event.

2. Dark Star Jubilee

Thornville. Ohio

When: May (three days)

Reminiscing classic rock music has never been this fun. The Dark Star Jubilee is a three-day music festival that features some of the best local and regional talent in the business. Music lineups vary in genres so you’ll also be hearing some blues, country, R&B, and electronic-inspired tunes.

Dark Star Jubilee 2022 RecapDark Star Jubilee 2022 Recap

Accompanied by the beautiful scenery of nature, the festival offers a great camping experience for music lovers and families. RVs and tents are welcome, and there are also plenty of food and drink vendors to keep you refreshed.

3. The Country Fest

North Lawrence, Ohio

When: June (four days)

Country music lovers rejoice! The Country Fest is a four-day music festival that takes place in North Lawrence, Ohio. This event is packed with country music’s biggest stars, as well as up-and-coming talent.

The Country Fest Done views up to 5-17-2022The Country Fest Done views up to 5-17-2022

The festival also features camping, food, and drink vendors. Plus, you can get an all-access pass to Clay’s Adventure Water Park where you can swim, slide down water slides, and more!

Whether you’re a country music fan or not, this festival is sure to be a good time. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly people make it a great place to kick back and enjoy the summer weather.

4. Bunbury Music Festival

Cincinnati, Ohio

When: June (three days)

Bunbury Music Festival is a three-day music festival that takes place in Cincinnati, Ohio. It features different musical acts from all genres, making it one of the most diverse festivals in the state. Past performers include big names such as The 1975, Post Malone, Incubus, and Snoop Dogg.

AWOLNATION - Live from the 2019 Bunbury Music FestivalAWOLNATION – Live from the 2019 Bunbury Music Festival

Genres range from rock, pop, hip-hop, and more. With a crowd that loves music and is ready to have a good time, this event is popular for its high-energy atmosphere among people of all ages – not to mention it always sells out!

5. WonderStruck

Cleveland, Ohio

When: July (two days)

For teenagers and young at heart, WonderStruck is a two-day music festival in Cleveland, Ohio that’s full of today’s biggest pop, hip-hop, rock, and EDM artists. As this event is conducted in an open space, the festival also features a marketplace, food trucks, and other fun activities.

WonderStruck in Cleveland 2022  |  Music Festival RECAPWonderStruck in Cleveland 2022 | Music Festival RECAP

What makes this event unique is that it’s one of the few all-ages festivals in the state. So if you’re looking for a music festival to take your kids or younger siblings too, this is the perfect option!

6. Inkcarceration

Mansfield, Ohio

When: July (three days)

Celebrating the art of music and tattoos, Inkcarceration is a three-day music festival that takes place in Mansfield, Ohio. The event features tattoo artists from all over the country, as well as live music performances. This is a great festival for those who love body art and great music.

Falling In Reverse "Popular Monster" live at Inkcarceration Festival 7.16.2022 - 25k fans loud!!Falling In Reverse “Popular Monster” live at Inkcarceration Festival 7.16.2022 – 25k fans loud!!

7. ComFest 

Columbus, Ohio

When: June (three days)

As a free concert driven by volunteers, Columbus’ Community Fest is a three-day music festival that celebrates music and arts. As a non-corporate event, the festival features a variety of local and regional talent along with philanthropic and community organizations.

ComFest 2022 LIVE Broadcast - Friday 6/24/22ComFest 2022 LIVE Broadcast – Friday 6/24/22

This event takes place in Goodale Park and is known for its family-friendly and laid-back atmosphere. If you’re looking to enjoy some good music while supporting a good cause, ComFest is a must-attend.

8. Cincinnati Music Festival

Cincinnati, Ohio

When: July (three days)

The Cincinnati Music Festival is a three-day event that celebrates urban music and culture. It features musical performances from a variety of genres, such as R&B, soul, gospel, jazz, and more. 

JANET JACKSON Cincinnati Music Festival Recap Ft. Tank, Charlie Wilson, O’JaysJANET JACKSON Cincinnati Music Festival Recap Ft. Tank, Charlie Wilson, O’Jays

With big names such as Janet Jackson, Charlie Wilson, and Earth Wind and Fire having headlined in the past, this festival attracts some of the biggest names in music.

9. Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival

Columbus, Ohio

When: May (three to four days)

As the music festival that replaced Rock on the Range,  Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival is a three or four-day event (depending on the year) that features rock, metal, and alternative music.

Mosh pits, headbanging, and camping are all a part of this festival’s culture. With over 120,000  people in attendance, this event is one of the largest rock festivals in North America.

Wage War @ Sonic Temple Live set from the Mosh Pit 5/17/19Wage War @ Sonic Temple Live set from the Mosh Pit 5/17/19

10. Buckeye Country Superfest

Columbus, Ohio

When: July (one day)

Country music is at its peak during Buckeye Country Superfest. This one-day event takes place at Ohio Stadium and features some of the biggest names in country music. This event is a great opportunity to enjoy some good music with friends (or make new ones!).

Buckeye Country Superfest 2022Buckeye Country Superfest 2022

Conclusion

Ohio offers a lot of promising and fun music festivals, something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re into jazz, pop, rock, or country, there’s a festival out there for you. So, tell your friends, pack your bags and get ready for a good time!