A Grown-ups Guide to America’s Best Festivals

When it comes to festivals, it’s hardly surprising that the amalgamation of rowdy teenagers, drugs and general carnage can be a turn-off for more seasoned attendees. Fortunately the US boasts a plethora of festivals that cater to a more mature crowd, offering rich experiences that go beyond the stereotypical festival scene.

From the soulful strains of the Newport Folk Festival to the avant-garde art of Burning Man, these seven celebrations across the country promise to deliver enjoyment without the chaos.

When: March

Otherwise known as South by South West, Austin’s most popular festival music, film and interactive media, drawing artists, tech enthusiasts, filmmakers and thought leaders from around the globe. Hosting everything from musical performance and new film screenings to tech showcases, the streets here buzz with impromptu concerts, networking events and pop-up experiences which sit beside workshops led by industry pioneers. If you’re looking to learn something new, this is the first place you should head.

When: April

Fancy yourself a bit of a car fanatic? Ever since its inception in 1988, Houston’s Art Car Parade has attracted both professional artists and enthusiastic amateurs who pour their hearts and souls into transforming ordinary cars into extraordinary, mobile masterpieces. Think of it as a moving gallery of automotive artistry, watch on as elaborately decorated vehicles roll by adorned with everything from whimsical sculptures to intricate paintwork – just make sure your camera is charged for this one.

When: April/May

The best fest for jazz lovers – New Orleans is its birthplace, after all - the clubs of New Orleans may be alive with musical energy year-round, but for something truly special, the prime time is late April and early May when the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival gets the city even noisier than usual, as the soulful strains of jazz, blues, zydeco and gospel fill the air. Think colourful tents offering mouthwatering Cajun and Creole delicacies while artisans display their crafts, the festival's diverse lineup features legendary musicians alongside emerging talents – the likes of the Rolling Stones, Queen Latifah and the Killers have all previously taken to the Jazz Fest stage at the Fair Grounds Race Course.

When: July

Picture this: breezy summer days, the salty tang of the ocean in the air and an eclectic mix of fans swaying to both timeless classics and cutting-edge new tunes. A place where legends like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez have shared the stage with contemporary trailblazers, the Newport Folk Festival isn't just a music festival; it’s a legendary cornerstone of American music, transforming the historic coastal town of Newport, Rhode Island into a haven for music lovers of all ages, all with the scenic Fort Adams State Park as its backdrop. Lovely jubbly.

When: August

Nestled in the lush expanse of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, every Augst this eclectic event attracts a diverse crowd of music lovers eager to experience its unique blend of top-tier acts, ranging from rock and hip-hop to electronic and folk. Combining incredible performances, immersive art installations and comedy among its towering redwoods and fog-kissed landscapes, it also knocks it out of the park when it comes to its food and beverage offerings - in previous years there have been such things called Cheese Lands, as well as a Wine Lands and Bubble Tea Party in a magical forest

When: August/September

Resembling a blend of Glastonbury's eclectic spirit and Mad Max's post-apocalyptic flair, this surreal event in the Nevada desert is among the world's most extraordinary gatherings. Originating in the mid-1980s, Burning Man has taken place in the Black Rock Desert, about 100 miles northeast of Reno, since 1991, and every year an ephemeral city emerges from the barren landscape, complete with music stages, fantastical vehicles and an array of bizarre sculptures, including the iconic Burning Man—a towering 40-foot effigy that is set ablaze on the second-to-last night. A festival where anything goes, expect to see body art, wild costumes, unusual bicycles and a host of eccentric personalities, and while it may sound intimidating, there are plenty of over-50s ‘burners’ who return year after year for very good reason.

When: Spring and Fall

Dog lovers unite – the frivolous celebration of one of the most adored dog breeds sees hundreds of enthusiastic Corgis and their equally excited owners take to the sands at Huntington Dog Beach. Featuring a variety of fun activities, from Corgi costume contests and talent shows to beach races and group photos, discover a palpable sense of community as Corgi lovers connect, share stories and revel in the joy these charismatic canines bring. You can even pick up Corgi-themed merchandise and treats, plus tips on pet care and adoption opportunities.

Name to Know: Valslist

If you’re on the edge of buying music festival tickets but are feeling slightly overwhelmed, be sure to enlist the help of Val Haller. The 50-something founder and CEO of the boutique music website Valslist.com specialises in introducing busy adults to new music, understanding that festivals which tend to attract teens can seem intimidating to an older crowd. As such she brings together groups of adults together, taking them under her wing for the experience of a lifetime. Be sure to look her up.