Welcome to another edition of JamFest, your trusted source for all things music festival—where the fields are loud, the crowds are massive, and the vibes are always unforgettable. This week, we’re spotlighting Napa Valley’s BottleRock Festival and how it’s redefining what a music fest can be. We’re also touching on some international controversy stirring ahead of Glastonbury and keeping our eyes on which venues and artists are setting the stage for a red-hot summer. And don’t forget—tonight is Thursday, and you know what that means…
🍷 BottleRock Napa: Where the Whole Family Feasts on Music
While some festivals pride themselves on pure chaos and neon face paint, BottleRock Napa Valley is carving out a different lane—one that’s just as electric, but with a little more refinement and a lot more inclusivity. Think world-class wine, Michelin-rated food, and a lineup that caters to everyone from die-hard rock fans to the pop-loving teens and even parents who remember when The Smashing Pumpkins first hit the charts.
Unlike the dust-blown deserts of Coachella or the late-night marathons of Lollapalooza, BottleRock brings festival culture to a slower, more luxurious pace—but don’t mistake that for boring. With acts like Ed Sheeran, Stevie Nicks, and Kali Uchis gracing the stage, it’s every bit as musically rich as its high-end setting.
Festival-goers this year shared a sentiment we keep hearing louder every season: BottleRock is a vibe for every generation. Parents and kids bonding over their favorite artists, couples sipping wine between sets, and yes, foodies treating the Culinary Stage like it’s Coachella’s Sahara Tent. As one attendee said, “Sharing our music taste with our son Charlie is the best part—we can all enjoy this together.”
And that might just be what sets BottleRock apart: it’s not just a place to lose yourself in music. It’s a place to find a little more connection—whether that’s with your favorite band, your family, or a truly unforgettable glass of cabernet.
🌍 Glastonbury Faces Controversy Over Irish Rap Trio
On the international circuit, controversy is swirling ahead of this year’s Glastonbury Festival, as Israeli officials have voiced strong objections over the inclusion of Irish rap trio Kneecap on the festival lineup. The group, known for their politically-charged lyrics and nationalist commentary, has already faced backlash for past performances—including a viral set at Coachella that sparked debate across social media.
Despite the political pushback, Kneecap is still scheduled to appear alongside some of the biggest acts in the world at Glastonbury, as well as at Germany’s Hurricane and Southside Festivals and the Eden Project concert series in the UK. While festival organizers haven’t made an official statement yet, fans are already split, with some praising the group’s inclusion as a move for artistic freedom and others questioning the decision.
Expect more headlines as Glastonbury nears—and we’ll be watching closely to see how the festival navigates this moment on a global stage.
🎤 The Ledge Amphitheater Is Stealing Summer
Let’s head north to Minnesota, where The Ledge Amphitheater is earning a reputation as the Midwest’s busiest—and buzziest—outdoor venue this summer. With a loaded schedule that includes names like Alanis Morissette, The National, and even the powerhouse all-star fundraiser Farm Aid, The Ledge is proving that you don’t need a coast to host major festival-caliber shows.
What’s unique about The Ledge? It’s not just the lineup. It’s the mission. Proceeds from concerts go toward local farming and sustainability initiatives, blending entertainment with impact. And with its intimate 6,000-person capacity, it’s one of the few venues where fans can get up close with artists who usually headline arenas.
If you’re anywhere near the Great Lakes this summer, The Ledge is a detour you won’t regret.
📻 Don’t Miss: Festival Radio Show – TONIGHT!
Every Thursday Night is Festival Night on JamFest Radio! We’re rolling out over eight hours of nonstop live music straight from the festivals you know and love. From the mud-caked magic of Glastonbury to the sun-soaked fields of Bonnaroo, every track comes from a real stage, a real crowd, and a real moment that someone (probably you) lived.
Catch your favorite festival anthems, rare live cuts, and jaw-dropping performances from the biggest stages on earth. Whether you’re reliving your favorite fest or dreaming about your next one, Festival Radio brings the rush to your speakers.
Tune in starting 7PM EST and crank it up—because Thursday nights are for losing yourself in the music all over again.
👀 Coming Up Next Week…
We’re diving deep into Governors Ball, Bonnaroo previews, and the undercard artists you need to catch before they explode. Plus, more exclusive interviews, setlist leaks, and live show recaps.
Stay loud. Stay wild. Stay plugged in with JamFest.