Is It Festival Season Yet?

After just laying my eyes on the lineup for Mountain Jam in Hunter, NY for this summer, I realized I am more anxious than ever for festival season. Although events like Coachella and Bonnaroo tend to be the most desirable for "music fans," I tend to learn towards a few others for several reasons. One reason these may also be attractive to you music lovers here in Pittsburgh is the distance. Here is a list of closer festivals that are just as fantastic as the commercial ones.

Mountain Jam in Hunter, NY
May 31- June 3, 2012

Although I've never been, it appears as if this festival is a must if you don't mind an 8-hour drive. Though let's face it, 8 hours to get some good music isn't so bad. This year's lineup includes amazing acts like Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds, Gov't Mule, Trombone Shorty, The Roots, Michael Franti and more!

Pittsburgh Arts Fest in Pittsburgh, PA
June 1-10, 2012

Some may overlook this festival because it is so close by, but some of the greatest bands rock it out here every year. From Robert Randolph to Patty Griffin, Jill West and the Blues Attack to Ingrid Michaelson...you've got it all, no matter what your style may be.

Nelson Ledges Quarry Park
All summer long!

This venue is by far one of my favorites. Located in the middle of nowhere in Ohio, this park has a beach, cliffs to jump off of into the quarry, cheap food and awesome vibes. Rusted Root has jammed here along with Buckethead, Ekoostik Hookah, Jones for Revival and a ton of others. They host festivals all summer long from a Memorial Day Weekend bash to Reggae Fest to Summer Hookah. Come here to chill out during the day and rage all night long with the Ohio Burn Unit and united drum circles :)

All Good Music and Arts Festival in Thornville, OH
July 19-22

With a recent venue change from West Virginia to Ohio, All Good is still going to be all good. This four-day fun fest has been filled with amazing artists like Toots and the Maytals, Grace Potter, Dana Fuchs, Galactic, Orgone and even late-night electronic dance parties with Pretty Lights.

The crowd is always wild, but kind and the colors are unimaginable...though that could be all the acid talking.

Either way, this show is a must and is only a three-hour drive away. Bring your tent, body paint and good vibes and you're set for the weekend.

Pittsburgh Blues Festival in Pittsburgh, PA
Late July

This three-day event not only brings the blues to the Burgh but it also brings the chance to do some good. Admission for one day can be granted with the donation of non-perishable food items, which are then given to a local food bank. What does this give you? A sense of knowing you are supporting a cause and, of course, amazing jams.

Last year, the incredible Tedeschi Trucks Band headlined the festival, which takes place at Hartwood Acres, a beautiful outdoor venue. Bring a blanket, some wine, and a picnic basket and you're in for a sweet, sweet weekend of the blues.