How do you know summer’s on its way? For us, nothing signals the season quite like festivals—especially music festivals. With long, sunny days ahead, there are tons of ways to enjoy live music, from street fairs like Grass Valley’s Thursday Night Markets to Truckee’s packed weekly lineup. If you’re looking to dive into full-on festival vibes, here are some of the biggest music events happening in the county this summer.
Celtic Festival
May 2nd – 4th
Learn about the Celtic Festival
Image appears courtesy: KVMR –
Photo by: Marion Charlotte Photography
Northern California’s premier celebration of Celtic music, heritage, and tradition. This one-of-a-kind event invites you to fully immerse yourself in all things Celtic—from living history encampments to a full-scale music festival set among the Ponderosa pines. This year’s festival also features the Scottish Highland Games, showcasing classic events like the caber toss and the iconic stone throw.
Strawberry Music Festival
May 21st – 26th
Learn about the Strawberry Music Festival
What began as a Bluegrass festival in 1982 has grown into a six-day celebration of diverse music genres. Guided by its ethos of kindness, cooperation, and consideration—known as the “Strawberry Way”—the Strawberry Music Festival stands out for its unique audience participation. One highlight is the Band Scramble. Attendees bring their instruments, get randomly grouped into bands, and have an hour to create a two-song set. Winners are chosen by audience applause and earn silly prizes—but it’s really all about the bragging rights.
Latitude 39 Mountain Music Festival
June 14th
Learn about 39 Mountain Music Festival
Tucked in the high country of Nevada County, Truckee sets the perfect stage for a day filled with good vibes and country rhythms. The festival unfolds at the centrally located Truckee Rodeo Grounds, with all proceeds supporting local initiatives that strengthen the Truckee community. Come for the biggest lineup in country music—stay for the memories and celebrate the very best of Truckee.
Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival
June 12th – 15th
Learn about the Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival
Since its inception in 1976, every part of the event—from ticket taking to ice delivery—has been powered by fellow bluegrass lovers. That grassroots spirit might just be why it still carries such a friendly, welcoming vibe. Over the course of the festival, you’ll find three stages featuring more than 30 bands. And to keep the music going well into the night, jamming is encouraged throughout the weekend at the campsites.
