If you haven’t already started planning your mid-year getaways, you’ll definitely feel inspired after checking out these upcoming summer festivals.
If you haven’t already started planning your mid-year getaways, you’ll definitely feel inspired after checking out these upcoming summer festivals. The best part? They’re at most a short plane ride away!
Jakarta, Indonesia
Jakarta’s much-lauded summer festival of music, arts, fashion and food is set to return for its sixth edition. To be held across three days, the event will feature art classes, carnival games, silent cinema screenings and performances by hip-hop duo Rae Sremmurd, R&B favourite Daniel Caesar and indie-pop group Alvvays. Plus, to create an inclusive environment for all, this year’s festival will feature an area just for wheelchair-bound guests. What’s not to love?
Singapore
Unable to travel overseas? You can still get your music fest fix at ULTRA Singapore. Choose from three epic stages and party to sets from EDM royalty against a backdrop of multicoloured lasers, lights and jumbo video screens right outside Marina Bay Sands. FYI, this year’s lineup includes big names such as Martin Garrix, Porter Robinson and Skrillex.
Bali, Indonesia
Not that you need another reason to abscond to Bali for a weekend, but the highly anticipated Sunny Side Up Tropical Festival will be back this August! If you’re all about good vibes and music next to the sun, sand and sea, this beach-side event is right up your alley. Soak up some sun rays at Manarai Beach House during the day, then party into the wee hours with the perfect mix of DJs and international artists after dusk falls. The lineup hasn’t been revealed as of press time, but we’re sure it’ll be well worth the trip!
Kuching, Malaysia
To be held in the middle of a rainforest at the base of Mount Santubong by the South China Sea, The Rainforest World Music Festival will shine the spotlight on renowned world musicians and indigenous musicians from the island of Borneo. If your legs need a break from all the dancing, you can check out the many health and wellness workshops, and food and craft bazaars. If the past 21 editions aren’t telling enough of its popularity, perhaps the international crowd of 20,000 will convince you that this stunning three-day experience is not to be missed.
Penang, Malaysia
Over the course of 16 days, the heart of Penang will house mini exhibitions celebrating visual art, theatre, music, dance, comedy, film, photography and more. The event will be split into three themes: When Night Falls sees illuminated art from around the world lighting up the town, Art in the City celebrates diversity in art, and The Extravaganza features performing arts from local and international acts. With the festival celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, this year’s edition might just be the best one yet.
Genting Highlands, Malaysia
Good vibes only at this festival, please! Professional party starters Cashmere Cat and 6LACK will hit the main stage to make you groove, but stay for the rest of the lineup and you’ll probably discover new favorites. And if you’ve been looking to escape Singapore’s heat, you’re sure to welcome the cool climate at Genting Highlands—just be sure to pack a sweater as it can get quite chilly at night.
TEXT COMPILED BY CLAIRE SOONG.
