By: Aryonna Richard 

Blackspy invites you to the 34th Annual High Sierra Music Festival happening July 2-5, 2026. Get ready for four days of epic performances and a strong feeling of community. This year, the festival is taking over a new location in beautiful Grass Valley, California at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. You can look forward to the same amazing energy and variety of music that have made this event special for over thirty years. From funk and reggae to bluegrass and soul, there’s something for everyone. 

Set in the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills, Grass Valley offers a gorgeous backdrop for nonstop fun. The tree-lined grounds offer plenty of shade and a perfect spot for camping and dancing. Grass Valley has great facilities for big crowds, but still feels close to nature. There’s lots of space for camping, easy-to-reach stages, and plenty of room to wander between shows. 

This year, you can catch legendary reggae pioneers Steel Pulse and enjoy the classic funk grooves of Cymande. Also performing is The Word, a dynamic band known for its fusion of rock, blues, and gospel, creating a soulful, electrifying sound. Six-time Grammy-winning musician, producer, and composer Don Was will perform with his new group, Don Was and the Pan-Detroit Ensemble.

Don’t miss your chance to catch Dumpstaphunk, a band that has secured its reputation as one of the most respected New Orleans musical institutions. Also performing is Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, headed by renowned saxophonist Karl Denson. The group blends funk, jazz, soul, and rock into a genre-defying musical experience. The lineup also includes rising stars. You’ll hear international acts like BALTHVS and Tijuana Cartel, the heartfelt voice of Judith Hill, and many more.

The 2026 High Sierra Music Festival offers flexible ticket options. You can choose a 2-day or 3-day pass to suit your schedule and budget. If you plan to purchase one of these passes, be sure to act fast. There are only a limited number of partial-weekend tickets, and they usually sell out quickly. Learn more about ticket options here.

When the sun sets and the main stages close, the music keeps going. High Sierra Music Festival’s late-night lineup brings exclusive, high-energy shows. If you want to see certain artists, you can buy late-night tickets for $30 each. For those who want the full experience, the Night Owl pass is $99 and gives you access to all four nights of late-night shows. 

The High Sierra Music Festival has something for everyone, with activities that make lasting memories for all ages. Adults over 21 can enjoy The Swirl, a daily beverage-tasting event featuring specialty beers, wines, and spirits. The festival also promotes creativity and self-expression with daily costume themes. For relaxation yoga, movement, and sound bath sessions are available, while RhythmetriX offers group drumming experiences that combine music, movement, and mindfulness. 

The High Sierra Music Festival offers several accommodation choices to meet various needs. Every multi-day pass includes on-site camping, available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you want more comfort, you can choose on-site RV passes, FestivALL RV passes, or stay at the nearby Grass Valley Family RV Resort. FestivALL hotel packages with shuttle service are also available.

The 34th Annual High Sierra Music Festival is set to bring together music lovers, nature, and community in a big way. With a mixed lineup, flexible ticketing, and activities for all ages, it’s an event you won’t want to miss! Head to the festival’s website to get your 2-day, 3-day, or full-weekend pass. Don’t forget to add Night Owl passes and Family Camp Parking while they’re still available. 

By: Aryonna Richard 

Blackspy invites you to the Rise & Vibes Music Festival, a three-day event happening May 29 to May 31, 2026, with an Early Entry Upgrade available on Thursday, May 28th at Tico Time River Resort near Durango, Colorado. Set along the Animas River, the festival brings together roots music, outdoor activities, and a strong sense of community.

This festival is located in one of the Southwest’s most beautiful river valleys, with the venue sitting along the border of Colorado and New Mexico. The scenery encourages you to relax, take a deep breath, and enjoy nature. Cottonwood trees create a natural canopy that gives cool shade, while the bold red cliffs create a dramatic backdrop.

Rise & Vibes is all about the uplifting power of music; conscious roots and reggae artists take the stage to share messages of unity, peace, and positivity. This year’s festival will feature Thievery Corporation, Collie Buddz, and The Hip Abduction as headliners. The duo, Rob Garza and Eric Hilton, are known for mixing dub, trip-hop, reggae, and world music to create their own sound. Their lyrics often focus on politics, culture, and global unity. Collie Buddz stands out for his captivating voice and upbeat rhythms, blending reggae and hip-hop. He sings about love, resilience, and island life, which connects with fans around the world. The Hip Abduction is a lively band combining reggae, indie rock, and world music. 

Music creates the atmosphere, but the outdoor activities turn the weekend into a real adventure. The Animas River is perfect for anyone who loves the water, regardless of experience. In the afternoons, you can cool off with a dip in the river between sets. If you enjoy floating on the water, try stand-up paddleboarding for a calmer way to explore the river. If you’re looking for more excitement, the festival features two large waterslides that drop straight into the river. 

Staying true to its spirit, the event invites you to care for your mind and body through yoga, ecstatic dance, outdoor wellness activities, and connecting with others. The 82-acre Tico Time Riverside Resort offers sandy beaches for swimming and volleyball, as well as beautiful hiking trails. Rise & Vibes helps you find your balance so you can leave the weekend feeling truly refreshed.

The festival has plenty of accommodations for every kind of adventurer. You can camp by the river, or, if you want more comfort, book an RV site, car camping spot, glamping tent, or a cabin. Hot showers, tasty food, and one-of-a-kind craft vendors will help make your stay easy and enjoyable. Don’t miss out on this special event where the mountains meet the river. Get your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable experience. 

By: Aryonna Richard 

Blackspy invites you to the 5th Annual HESTIVAL, returning to Hotchkiss, Colorado, May 1-3, 2026. Get ready for a weekend of outdoor adventures and camping beneath the stars in blossoming apple orchards.

The purpose-driven festival is partnering with The Conservation Alliance to protect the public lands where we play, connect, and camp. When you purchase your ticket, a portion goes to raising awareness and funds for the wild spaces we treasure.

HESTIVAL gives you an all-inclusive, family and dog-friendly experience packed with mountain culture and community connection. Spend your days hiking, biking, relaxing by the water, or indulging in cider tastings and happy hours. Live music and entertainment will fill your nights. Enjoy a lineup including Mama Lingua, Jeremy Garrett Bluegrass Band, Coffis Brothers, and John Craigie.

HESTIVAL exists to celebrate camping of all varieties and backgrounds. From glamping tents and orchard sites to RVs, truck campers, and overland rigs set against mountain backdrops, there is a place for every camper at HESTIVAL, from first timers to seasoned vets.Get your tickets now for the ultimate weekend in the Colorado sun that combines natural beauty and epic live performances.