
Pack it up and hit the road with your smallest jammin’ groupies for the Little Steps guide to the best family-friendly live music festivals in Asia and beyond! Jam out to tunes, explore the kiddie tents, and pack picnics for easy listening…family style. Let the musical journeys begin!
Said to be one of the most family-friendly music festivals in Asia for kids of all ages, this rockin' three-day summer experience takes place at the picturesque Naeba ski resort on Mt Fuji between 7 different stages. For some extra special local flavor, take your fam for a scenic ride on the "Dragondola" to the top of the mountain. The views are priceless.
Fuji Rock, Naeba Ski Resort, Yuzawamachi, Niigata, Japan, Website
DATES: JULY (July 26 - 28, 2013)
Assembling some of the best world-music acts from Asia, Africa, South America, Europe and the Middle East, the Rainforest Music Festival in Borneo, Malaysia is a 3-day cultural journey. Daytime jam sessions in traditional longhouses and nighttime concerts under the jungle canopy make this an unforgettable experience. Single-day tickets are also available for both adults and children.
Rainforest Music Festival, Sarawak Cultural Village, Borneo, Malaysia, Website
DATES: JUNE (June 28 - 30, 2013)
Hong Kong's much loved pioneering 2-day music and arts festival takes place in West Kowloon's Cultural District with an unforgettable backdrop of Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour. Featuring diverse music styles from around the world, including local musicians, Clockenflap is a favorite to Hongkers and visitors alike. The kids' lawn is a family favorite, with swings, sandboxes and an open lawn to let lose - great for all ages!
Clockenflap, West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong, Website
DATES: NOVEMBER (November 30 - December 1, 2013)
This hipster indie scene has Melbourne roots and is a smaller scene than many festivals, gathering around 8,000 attendees. The strength and reputation come from the stellar list of bands, new and upcoming artists, who have since changed the industry playing field for the better. Kids are welcome during the day, but best to hire a babysitter if going at night.
St. Jerome's Laneway Festival, The Meadow, Gardens By The Bay, Singapore, www.singapore.lanewayfestival.com.au
DATES: FEBRUARY
At Australia's oldest gig, there is something for everyone from babes on up - extreme sports, visual arts, comedy and dance classes, family activities and fun workshops hosted by local community groups, and more! This epic event spans across various venues and locations throughout the St Kilda precinct. Bring sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes and download the mobile app to help you get around.
St Kilda Festival, Melbourne, Australia; Website
DATES: FEBRUARY
Great for kids of all ages, this ultimate family festival features music, arts, shows, food, activities, camping and more in a magical location of Lulworth Castle, Dorset. Check out Camp Bestival's amazing website for more information on their festival happenings, including their "Around The World Colouring-In Competition", for a chance for five families to win weekend camping tickets!
Camp Bestival, Lulworth Castle, Dorset, United Kingdom, Website
DATES: AUGUST (August 1 - 4, 2013)
Two nights of global music and culture with a mix of international and local musicians, playing a fusion of traditional and contemporary music, is what you will get here. The beautiful landscape of Quarry Park is enough to have you awe-struck. In addition to the stellar music scene, enjoy the bazaar, crafts, local tasty treats and more.
Penang World Music Festival, Penang, Malaysia, Website
DATES: MARCH (March 30, 31, 2013)
Hear an incredible variety of music, explore the history and cuisine of the New Orleans French Quarter...this is truly an adventure! The Food Fair here is half the fun, with vendors specializing in options appealing to kids. Jazz Fest has a Kids and Family Tent with vendors, games and activities which is a great way break up the day and entertain the kids. Daily Jazz Fest tix are only US$5 for kiddos, US$60 for adults.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, New Orleans, USA, Website
DATES: APRIL/MAY (April 26 - May 5, 2013)
The Glastonbury Festival of Performing Arts is the UK's largest and most popular music festival, held every other year. Kids of all ages are very welcome, however, youngster below three years old are advised to stay home with a sitter. The well established Kidz Field is regarded as an essential part of the Glastonbury experience, with rides for kids of ages, shows, arts and crafts, music sessions, storytelling, circus and more.
Glastonbury Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts, Glastonbury, UK, www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk
DATES: JUNE (June 2013)
FAMILY FESTIVAL TIPS:
* Be Smart: Stay together. If there are a few of you, stick to the buddy system. Pick a solid meeting spot that everyone is comfortable with finding on their own.
* Sun and Bug Safety: Avoid sunburn by re-application of sunscreen constantly throughout the day. Keep insect-repellant handy. Little Steps loves Para'Kito bracelets and keychains.
* Snacks and Water: You can never have enough on hand!
Happy festival going!
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