15 Summer Music Festivals That Actually Booked Latinx Artists

The dawn of summer is finally here, and after a particularly brutal winter, our bodies are ready to thaw with the promise of UV rays and summer bops. What better way to do so than by hitting up a few music festivals?

As Latinxs, it’s hard not to feel alienated in these mainstream festival settings, but thanks to examples set by local, on-the-ground organizers, larger entities like SXSW and Coachella are booking acts from across Latin America and the diaspora alongside buzzy Anglo artists, and not just as openers – it seems our art and buying power are finally being acknowledged. Many festivals and cultural events have begun catering to specific interests and audiences, thanks in part to increased involvement from local governments and community organizations, warming up the generally sterile corporate approach of the more mainstream enterprises.

Make no mistake: these hard-fought accomplishments have come thanks to years of media coverage, incessant audience demand, and sustained efforts from Latinx gatekeepers. But ultimately, it would be foolish for these festivals to continue ignoring the largest growing demographic in the country. Considering the sociopolitical implications of our time, inclusivity presents an opportunity for festival organizers to take a stand and support local communities like they would anyone else.

In the spirit of summer and our passion for live music, we’ve curated a list of homegrown U.S. festivals featuring Latinx artists across the country. From purely Latinx lineups to more diverse ones, we are highlighting a variety of established and emerging fests hosting some of the most riveting shows of the summer. Travel is always an option, but if you don’t see your neck of the woods represented here, remember that supporting local artists and venues is always the best way to nourish and grow a scene near you.

This piece will be updated with additional information as more festival announcements are made.