Discover the hottest music festivals in Michigan with JARS' comprehensive guide. Explore top events, lineups, venues, and more. Plan your ultimate musical adventure in the Great Lakes State!

You might know Michigan as the home of the automobile industry with beautiful Great Lakes shorelines to explore, but did you know that this humble state is also home to some of the world’s best music festivals? 

As the home of early punk rock music, techno, and Motown, it makes sense that music lovers of all kinds have flocked to Michigan to catch some of their favorite acts. Whether you like electronic music, classic jazz, crooning country, or anything in between, there’s a festival out there for you. To learn more about these yearly events, read on to see the JARS’ Guide to the Most Popular Music Festivals in Michigan. 

Electric Forest Festival

When: Typically late June or early July

Where: Rothbury, MI

Of all the festivals in Michigan, Electric Forest is perhaps the most visually dazzling of them all. Set in the stunning Sherwood Forest, this electronic music and jam band-focused festival incorporates the natural beauty of the high woodland trees into the experience. Complete with psychedelic light shows, interactive art installations, and legendary lineups, this four-day-long extravaganza is one event you do not want to miss. 

Movement Detroit

When: Memorial Day Weekend 

Where: Detroit

Every Memorial Day Weekend, serious electronic music fans make the pilgrimage to Detroit to experience one of longest running dance music festivals in the world—Movement Detroit. Each year, the festival takes place in Hart Plaza to welcome summer in with a bass-thumping good time. 

Even we had to get in on this long-standing event in our home state. In 2022, the JARS team put on their dancing shoes and helped sponsor the music festival’s sixth and newest stage, “Detroit Stage presented by JARS,” which highlighted an all-Detroit-based artist lineup with veterans, newcomers, and rising stars. So if you’re ready to see what the buzz is all about, keep an eye out for updates on this weekend-long event. 

Faster Horses Festival

When: Typically end of July

Where: Brooklyn, MI

Often dubbed the party of the summer by country music fans, the Faster Horses Festival brings a star-studded lineup and draws an average of 40-50,000 people from around the world. Since its establishment in 2013, it has garnered praise for its down home feel with the bonus of state-of-the-art technology. Each year, its popularity continues to grow so make sure to get yourself a coveted wristband as soon as the ticketing window opens. 

Mo Pop Festival 

When: Typically end of July

Where: Detroit, MI

Another one of Detroit’s premier music festivals is the annual Mo Pop Festival. This all ages event takes place at the Hart Plaza so that concert goers can enjoy the sounds while taking in gorgeous views of the river. With a vibe that has been described as boutique and niche, this two-day music event features some of the country’s hottest acts that span a variety of genres. Past performers have included Lizzo, Tame Impala, Kaytranada, and Doja Cat. 

Hiawatha Music Festival 

When: Typically last full weekend in July

Where: Marquette, MI

Founded to provide, promote, and educate the masses on traditional American music and dance, the Hiawatha Music Festival is a haven for those who appreciate a slower pace. Each year, this knee-slapping event features music styles that include bluegrass, old-time, Cajun, Celtic, acoustic blues and folk. It’s a good time for both the young and old to enjoy the storytelling of traditional music styles and dance. 

Detroit Jazz Festival

When: Labor Day Weekend

Where: Detroit, MI

With the title of the world’s largest free jazz festival, there’s no excuse not to check out the legendary Detroit Jazz Festival. Every year, the lineup includes around 60 remarkable and diverse performers, as well as spontaneous late-night jam sessions that are sure to please jazz aficionados and newbies alike. It’s the perfect way to end the summer on a high note. 

Stock Up for Festival Season at JARS

Before stuffing your fanny pack with everything you need to enjoy your favorite acts, make sure to stop by JARS to help get your creative juices flowing. Whether you want a sativa strain to give you long-lasting energy or a hybrid to help you go with the flow, we’ll be able to find the perfect companion to your musical adventures.