Everything You Need to Know About BottleRock Napa Valley

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Averaging around 75 degrees Fahrenheit in late spring, Napa Valley is an ideal location for large-scale music events taking place around that time. The weather is relatively arid and there’s no risk of any dust storms. Let’s not forget to mention the picturesque views and gorgeous landscapes that adorn the region.

One festival that Napa is particularly known for is BottleRock. Typically held in May, this music festival has drawn countless visitors throughout the past several years. With star-studded lineups, great food, and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s no surprise that this annual event is eagerly anticipated every year.

The History of BottleRock

The first BottleRock music festival in Napa Valley took place on May 8, 2013. The event, organized by Willpower Entertainment, went on for five whole days and featured three different stages, making it the first large-scale music event in Napa Valley. The lineup included new billboard arrivals such as Macklemore, Alabama Shakes, and Best Coast. Also performing at the event were established acts like Primus, Kings of Leon, Joan Jett, Ben Harper, and The Black Crowes.

The Napa Valley festival returned a year later with new promoters and acclaimed acts such as Smash Mouth, LL Cool J, Weezer, and Outkast. It is worth mentioning that Latitude 38 Entertainment bought the BottleRock brand in late 2013. The following years saw major headliners including Snoop Dogg, Stevie Wonder, Robert Plant, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Carlos Santana, Mumford & Sons, Billy Idol, Bruno Mars, and a host of other popular artists. 

What to Do at BottleRock Festival

Besides the live music performances, BottleRock is jam-packed with a whole lot of other exciting activities. A spa tent consisting of several different booths offers hennas, face glitter, haircuts, braiding, full-body or leg massages, vitamin B12 shots for boosting energy, IV therapy for hydration, and more. The venue also features an all-day Silent Disco area where two DJs play at the same time, allowing you to choose the DJ station you prefer. The headphones light up in two different colors according to the DJ you’re listening to. That way, you can tell who else is vibing to the same music.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you don’t need to leave the venue because BottleRock Napa Valley offers some of the best food you’ll find at any music festival. Besides the handful of popular food trucks and booths from local restaurants, you can stop by the Culinary Stage, which features famous chefs, athletes, and artists.

The festival wristband that you’ll be given upon arrival contains a barcode that you can scan. After connecting your PayPal, Venmo, or credit card account to the wristband, you can basically use it to pay for just about anything in the venue, from food to merch, to spa treatments. 

Where to Stay in Napa Valley

If you’re planning on staying somewhere close to the venue, it can be a good idea to book your accommodations as early as possible. Bear in mind that anything affordable that’s within close proximity to the venue sells out faster than you can say “BottleRock”.  If you’re attending the festival for the full three days, consider staying somewhere nearby to avoid wasting time and energy going back and forth each day. BottleRock does provide shuttles (for an extra fee) from the venue to a selection of popular locations in NorCal and back. But depending on the location, the ride can take anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half. Consider this option if you plan on buying a single-day pass to this festival in California.

Should you stay in Napa, a variety of charming hotels and resorts are available — as long as you don’t forget to plan ahead. Perched on a hill above Yountville, Poetry Inn provides an intimate space with five suites, each of which is named after a different poet. Other places to stay in Napa Valley include Silverado Resort and Spa, SENZA Hotel, and Milliken Creek Inn and Spa, just to name a few. A variety of stunning Airbnbs is also available in Napa Valley. And for those who prefer camping, Camp Carneros is just two miles away from BottleRock. Located in Skyline Wilderness Park, this campsite offers RV and tent camping options. Bear in mind that camping at the BottleRock venue itself is not allowed. 

Where to Eat in Napa Valley

The BottleRock festivals normally kick off early on in the day, so it’s always a good idea to grab breakfast somewhere in Napa before heading over to the venue. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to restaurants in the area. If you’re craving a fresh bagel and some coffee, consider stopping by Monday Bakery on 2nd Street. One interesting fact about this restaurant is that it’s actually owned by a CIA-certified chef. Try the mouthwatering buttermilk biscuit, the frittata, or the chorizo. Every Sunday, the bakery has quiche specials offered by the slice or whole. You can have a slice there and another one to go. Other places you can grab a bite in Napa Valley include Boon Fly Café, Grace’s Table, and Jax White Mule Diner. 

Nearby Activities and Attractions

If you’re looking to take a short break away from the festival, consider visiting nearby attractions to see what else Napa has in store. The sprawling hills and seemingly endless vineyards provide the ideal setting for a variety of outdoor activities — even if you’re on a budget. What better way to witness the grandeur of Napa Valley than from the heights of a hot air balloon. Napa Valley Drifters and Viator offer unforgettable hot air balloon rides that will make your festival trip all the more special. A short distance away from the venue, the Skyline Wilderness Park offers various scenic trails for hiking, biking, picnicking, and more.