Two Cool California Music Festivals Are Happening This Weekend

California is buzzing with excitement as two incredible music festivals kick off this weekend, each offering a distinct vibe for music lovers. Whether you're in the mood for headbanging to heavy metal or swaying to the sounds of soulful rock and country, these festivals promise an unforgettable experience. Here’s everything you need to know about Aftershock and the Joshua Tree Music Festival, both happening right now.

Aftershock Festival

For fans of metal and its diverse subgenres, the Aftershock Festival is the place to be. Running from October 10 to 13 at Discovery Park in Sacramento, this four-day event showcases the legends of the genre. This year’s lineup is nothing short of iconic, with heavy-hitting headliners like Slayer, Mötley Crüe, Slipknot, Pantera, and Iron Maiden. These bands, alongside numerous other well-known acts, are sure to deliver powerful performances that will satisfy any metalhead's craving for hard-hitting riffs and thunderous drums.

If you're looking to experience the thrill but haven’t snagged your tickets yet, single-day passes are still available, with prices starting at $210. While that may seem steep, the opportunity to witness these legendary bands live and immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere is well worth it. Aftershock isn’t just about the music; it’s a gathering of passionate fans who live and breathe metal, making the event an unmissable experience for those who love the genre.

Discovery Park, known for its spacious grounds and scenic river views, provides an excellent backdrop for this high-energy festival. Expect explosive performances, a sense of community, and of course, non-stop headbanging throughout the weekend.

Joshua Tree Music Festival

If heavy metal isn’t your scene and you’re searching for something more laid-back, the Joshua Tree Music Festival is your oasis. Happening at the Joshua Tree Lake Campground from October 10 to 13, this festival offers a completely different experience from Aftershock. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, the Joshua Tree Music Festival highlights more chill and eclectic genres, featuring a mix of rock, pop, and country, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy great music while unwinding under the Southern California sun.

This year, the festival is headlined by the Polyrhythmics and Lowdown Brass Band, two acts that will fill the desert air with funky, feel-good vibes. And while the music is certainly the centerpiece, the festival also offers plenty of other ways to enjoy your weekend. Attendees are encouraged to bring yoga mats for early morning yoga sessions, allowing festival-goers to start their day with some exercise before diving into a full schedule of live performances.

Day passes for the Joshua Tree Music Festival are still available, with prices varying depending on the day. Saturday’s pass is the most expensive, at $135, while tickets for the other days are more affordable, with Thursday’s entry costing just $70. With the festival's welcoming community vibe, diverse music lineup, and emphasis on health and well-being, it’s the perfect getaway for those seeking a more relaxed musical experience.

Whether you’re in the mood for the face-melting riffs of Aftershock or the serene, soulful tunes of Joshua Tree, California’s festival scene has something for everyone this weekend. Both festivals offer unique atmospheres and top-tier music that will leave lasting memories. So, whether you're packing your leather jacket for Aftershock or grabbing your yoga mat for Joshua Tree, you’re in for a fantastic weekend filled with incredible music, good vibes, and unforgettable experiences.