LIST: Must-see music festivals happening in Southeast Asia in 2023
Heading to Southeast Asia next year?
With health restrictions slowly easing in different parts of the world, many Filipinos are planning trips abroad to make up for lost time during the pandemic. Southeast Asia is the perfect region for those who want to taste a different culture while capitalizing on the visa exemption for members of ASEAN states, like the Philippines.
While these countries have a lot of sightseeing spots to dive into, one way to make your trip extra special is by attending one of the many music festivals happening all over the region as it offers a great way to see rising artists from all over the region, listen to good music, and even share cultures with fellow concertgoers.
With that, here are five must-see music festivals that are happening in Southeast Asia next year.
Everblast Festival (Indonesia)
If you’re a pop punk fan, Indonesia’s Everblast Festival this March 4-5 is the perfect place to jam out with fellow Southeast Asian rock fans. The lineup is a mix of genre favorites such as Simple Plan, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, and Hoobastank as well as local favorites Padi Reborn, Letto, and I-Rocks. Find more information on the festival here.
Rolling Loud (Thailand)
Hip-hop heads rejoice! The world’s biggest hip-hop festival is making its Asian debut in Thailand from April 13-15. Some of hip-hop’s biggest stars have performed in previous editions of the festival, such as Megan Thee Stallion, Travis Scott, and Post Malone, just to name a few.
Rolling Loud’s maiden edition in Asia is expected to incorporate elements of the Thai festival, Songkran (or the Water Splashing Festival). The celebrations are famous for public water fights to signify cleansing. While details on the lineup are yet to be released, festival goers can expect an electrifying hip-hop festival while appreciating Thai culture. More details on Rolling Loud can be found here.
It’s The Ship (Singapore)
If you’re looking for a unique festival experience, Singapore’s It’s The Ship festival is making its comeback on March 8-10. It’s The Ship is billed as Asia’s largest festival–at sea! The festival will take attendees on a round trip aboard the Genting Dream cruise liner. The cruise includes a lineup of international DJs for a dance music-driven experience.
Embarking from Singapore, the cruise will make a 3D2N round trip, during which attendees can expect “signature pop-up parties, premium dining experiences, [and] exhilarating thematic experiences” in addition to its lineup of international DJs, according to a press release. Booking details are available here.
George Town Festival (Malaysia)
Malaysia’s George Town Festival is perfect for those who are into a more culture-centered festival experience with an emphasis on culture, art, drama, and music. The festival is held in the UNESCO world heritage site of George Town in Penang, Malaysia. Next year, it's set to happen from July 15-30. Various performances and activities will be held in hidden spots and unique venues around the heritage site. It will also feature a mix of both paid and free programs. Read more about the festival here.
Pasar Musik (Indonesia)
Indonesia’s Pasar Musik Festival offers a range of acts that highlight the diversity of the country’s local music scene. From hip-hop to rock, there’s a perfect niche for anyone looking for new artists to be fans of. Some of the notable acts performing are The Changcuters, rappers BAP., Basboi, Tuan Tigabelas, and more. Check out more details on the festival happening from Feb. 10-12 here.
