Cherry Creek Arts Festival, Denver, CO, July 5-7
It’s totally free to attend this celebration of the visual, culinary and performing arts. For the first time, the fest will host a kids’ culinary demo for aspiring little chefs.
California WorldFest, Grass Valley, CA, July 11-14
This eight-stage festival showcases musical genres from around the world, from bluegrass to Bollywood. At the WorldFest Playground, kids can make arts and crafts, sign up for juggling and magic workshops, and march in a costume parade.
Newport Folk Festival, Newport, RI, July 27-28
Take a break from the crowd at the family tent, featuring musical act Elizabeth Mitchell & You Are My Flower (Mitchell’s 11-year-old daughter Storey is in the band!). On the adult lineup: Beck, The Lumineers, and more.
Kidzapalooza, Chicago, IL, Aug 2-4
Since 2005, Lollapalooza has included an interactive G-rated section. Coming to Grant Park this year are kid faves The Not-Its, Ralph’s World, and The Q Brothers, who will also host a hip-hop workshop. In between sets, kids can rock out to video karaoke, get an airbrushed tattoo, and find their rhythm in a group drum circle.
Bite of Oregon, Portland, Oregon, Aug 9-11
Set on the Willamette River, the state’s largest food event features snacks from more than 20 regional restaurants, food trucks, and chefs. Head to the kids area, where entertainment, face-painting, and balloon artists will keep everyone busy between bites.
Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off, Sparks, NV, Aug 28-Sept 2
Twenty-four rib cookers from around the world gather in downtown Sparks’ Victorian Square for the country’s biggest free rib festival. End the summer at this lip-smacking hub of food, music, and fun!
Summer festivals aren’t just for fringe- and leather-laden twenty-somethings. Rather, the season is ripe with some great festivals that the whole family can enjoy. Grab a picnic blanket—and the kids—and head to one of the many family-friendly festivals around the country.