Music Festivals Around The World You Don't Want to Miss This September

Photo by Hanny Naibaho on Unsplash

 

There are very few things that bring people together like music does and no where better than a music festival to experience that unity and energy. But while most festivals seem to take place at the start of summer or at the end of the year, there are a few unique ones worth mentioning that take place in September. From the shores of a lake in Malawi, to the magical woods in Scotland and even to the familiar Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, we explore some of the finest musicals happening this month!

 

 

BPM Portugal

 

If you’re an EDM fan, this needs to be on your bucket list! BPM Portugal started out as a gathering for professionals in the industry about a decade ago. The name itself stands for bartenders, promoters and musicians and while the festival started in Mexico, it has moved to Portugal in the last few years. It has also become incredibly popular with the festival now attracting more than 70,000 people globally and featuring 400 Djs over 80 events.

 

 

Source: The BPM Festival 

 

BPM is a professionally organized festival so you can expect effective crowd management and on-point lighting and sound systems to ensure the audience has an enjoyable experience. Spread over 4 days and nights with a line-up that includes the likes of Pacu Asuna, Dubfire and Apollonia, you know there’ll be some insane beats to be dropped!

 

Venue: Portimão Portugal

Dates: 12 - 15 Sept

Ticket prices: From 79 EU and can be purchased here

 

Tips: Expect to travel quite a bit as day shows and night shows are often in different vicinities. Uber is available and will be the best way to get around if you don’t use a rental car.

 

 

Rock in Rio, Brasil

 

 

Rock in Rio is one of, if not the world’s most popular music festival with audiences reaching up to 1.5 million at one of their events. It’s no doubt they remain the giants of festivals and have been featuring the who’s who in the music industry since 1985 with larger than life rockstars like Queen, AC/DC, Metallica and Linkin Park gracing their stages. But don’t be fooled by its name, Rock in Rio has also featured top performers from various genres including Beyonce, Coldplay and Stevie Wonder.

 

 

Source: Rock in Rio

 

This year’s line up is no different with a diversity that will appeal to most fans. Drake, P!nk, Foo Fighters, and Ellie Goulding are some of the many top artists that will be playing. Expect to rock out with an energized crowd at the Barra Olympic Park and enjoy the much raved about fireworks display!

 

Venue: City of Rock, Rio de Janeiro

Dates: 27 Sept- 6 Oct

Ticket prices: From US$150 onwards and can be purchased here 

 

 

Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix Concert

 

 

With so many music festivals happening in other continents, it’s a relief to have one close enough to get to on an hour’s flight! This September, Singapore will be holding the Formula 1 Grand Prix. And while we might assume that the sound of fast cars will be all we hear at a race, this is an exception. With an incredible line-up that includes huge names like Swedish House Mafia, Fatboy Slim, Gwen Stefani and Muse, this concert is set to blow your mind. But that’s not all, you can also enjoy a bubble performance, neon art and a flaming baton show between all that racing and dancing!

 

 

 

Source: Singapore Grand Prix

 

 

So if you love fast cars, good music and everything else in between, this is just the event for you. What’s more, there are some great deals for flights to Singapore. Check them out here.

 

Venue: Marina Bay Sands Circuit

Dates: 21-23 Sept

Ticket prices: From S$ 98 and can be purchased here 

 

Tips: When you need a break, get away to nearby malls for a quick bite and some quiet. The sweltering heat can get to you and the air-conditioning might provide just the relief you require. 

 

 

Malawi Arts Festival

 

For something a little different, the Malawi Arts Festival offers you the best of arts and entertainment from the continent. Set in the stunning Kachere Kastle on the breathtaking shores of the 3rd largest lake in Africa, the event boasts a culturally rich experience including music, dance, poetry, art, film and talks. Here you will discover some of Africa’s hottest musicians and watch as many challenge the preconceived ideas we have about the people and the culture through their art. Leading the movement is Lazarus, a Malawian musician and activist with albinism who challenges prejudice through his music. Other musicians performing this year include Moonchild Sanelly, DJ Lag and Amanda Black. This is sure to be an enriching, insightful and enjoyable experience!

 

 

Image by festicket

 

Venue: Kachere Kastle, Nkhata Bay District, Malawi

Dates: 27-29 Sept

Ticket prices: From US$ 180.00 and can be purchased here 

 

Tips: It does get very windy and hot at this time in Malawi. Be prepared with sunblock and proper clothes- perhaps even a shawl that will protect you from both the heat and the sand being blown at you.

 

 

Loopallu Festival, Scotland

 

This Scottish festival started 15 years ago and will be running its last gig this year. With the region bringing in more tourists, there just isn’t enough accommodation to go around and the producers have decided to finish with a bang. A cosy festival by global standards with an audience of 2,500, the Loopallu is known for its friendly crowd and star-studded line up. In the past they’ve played host to Mumford and Sons, Paulo Nutini and the Levellers. This years line up is equally impressive with Tide Lines, Hunter and the Bear and Idlewild taking to the stage. So if you’re thinking of visiting Scotland, join them for their final show this September!

 

 

Image by skiddle 

 

Venue: Ullapool, Scotland

Dates: 27-28 Sept

Ticket prices: From EUR$ 90.53  can be purchased here  

 

 

Into the Woods, Netherlands

 

Not to be confused with the In the Woods festival in Kent, Into the Woods is a highly revered electronic music festival set in lush greenery in Amersfoort, Netherlands. This will be its 10th year running and as such, it will be celebrating the decade in style! This festival is known for showcasing creativity and pushing boundaries by hosting the finest underground techno and house talents. Some of those included in this year’s line up are Alan Fitzpatrick, Detroit Swindle and Juan Sanchez. Be prepared to get lost in the music while taking in the magic of the mystical woods.

 

Image by nightwatchdrink 

 

Venue: Amersfoort, Netherlands

Dates:  13 - 14 Sept

Ticket prices: EUR$ 48 (currently sold out, waiting list available)

 

 

Final tips

 

 

As with all other festivals, do read the rules provided to ensure you have a good time. Keep your belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings at all times. If possible, go out in groups so that you can watch out for each other.  Finally, don’t forget to keep hydrated, drink responsibly and take lots of photos! You know you will want to relive the experience when it’s all over. 

 

 

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Kristy Tan is a teacher and mother who believes that travelling is good for the mind, soul and the body. When she isn’t chasing her two boys around the garden, she can be found writing articles and researching places for their next family holiday.