Music Festivals Accepting Artist Applications for 2026

Is one of your goals for 2026 to see your name on a festival lineup? Applications are already open for many festivals next year, so don’t miss your chance to apply!  From iconic multi-stage events to intimate, genre-focused showcases, there are plenty of festivals looking for fresh talent. Here are some with open submissions you can apply to right now…

Want to Play a Festival in 2026? Here’s Where to Apply

SXSW

📍 Where: Austin, TX
📆 When: March 12 – 18, 2026

SXSW is one of the world’s most influential music festivals, offering emerging artists the chance to perform in Austin, TX, in front of industry professionals, media, and music fans from around the globe. Submitting your application gives you the opportunity to play at some of Austin’s most iconic venues, connect with other artists, and gain exposure to thousands of attendees.

While there is a non-refundable application fee, being selected can be a game-changer for your career. Even if you’re not chosen, you’ll have access to attend the festival at a discounted rate, making it a valuable networking experience either way.

📌 Application Deadline: October 24, 2025 // CLICK HERE TO APPLY.

LAUNCH Music Conference & Festival 2026

📍 Where: Lancaster, PA

📆 When: April 23 – 26, 2026

LAUNCH is a dynamic four-day event that blends a music conference with a vibrant festival, offering emerging artists a platform to perform and connect with industry professionals. The festival features over 130 performances across various venues in Lancaster, providing artists with exposure to diverse audiences and networking opportunities. In addition to live music, LAUNCH hosts educational panels, seminars, and one-on-one mentoring sessions, making it a comprehensive experience for artists looking to advance their careers.

📌 Application Deadline: February 15, 2026 // CLICK HERE TO APPLY.

Will McLean Music Festival

📍 Where: Florida Sand Music Ranch, Brooksville, FL

📆 When: March 7 – 9, 2026

The Will McLean Music Festival celebrates Florida’s rich musical heritage with a focus on acoustic, folk, and Americana sounds. Held at the scenic Florida Sand Music Ranch in Brooksville, this three-day festival brings together fans, artists, and the local community for a memorable music experience.

Performing at Will McLean gives emerging artists like you the chance to share their songs with a passionate, music-loving audience and connect with fellow musicians in a supportive, intimate setting. The festival’s focus on authentic songwriting and community makes it a perfect stage for artists looking to make meaningful connections while showcasing their craft.

📌 Application Deadline: September 30, 2025 // CLICK HERE TO APPLY. 

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

📍 Where: New Orleans, LA
📆 When: April 23 – May 3, 2026

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival celebrates Louisiana’s rich music and culture, spanning jazz, blues, gospel, R&B, rock, and more. Held at the Fair Grounds Race Course, it draws over 400,000 attendees each year, making it a prime opportunity for artists to gain exposure to a passionate, global audience. With a lineup that has included legends like Stevie Nicks, The Rolling Stones, and Trombone Shorty, the festival is committed to promoting, preserving, and perpetuating the music, arts, culture, and heritage of Louisiana, with a significant emphasis on showcasing local talent.

📌 Application Deadline: October 1, 2025 // CLICK HERE TO APPLY.

Lovin’ Life Music Festival

📍 Where: Charlotte, NC
📆 When: TBA

Lovin’ Life Music Festival is a vibrant celebration of music, bringing together over 50 artists across multiple stages in the heart of Charlotte. The festival offers a dynamic lineup, diverse genres, and an inclusive atmosphere, making it a standout event in the region. Performing at Lovin’ Life provides emerging artists with the opportunity to showcase their talent to a passionate audience, network with industry professionals, and be part of a community that celebrates the joy of live music.

📌 Application Deadline: TBA // CLICK HERE TO APPLY.

Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival

📍 Where: Sunshine Grove, Okeechobee, FL

📆 When: March 19 – 22, 2026

Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival returns for its 10th anniversary, transforming Sunshine Grove into a four-day hub of music, art, and culture! The festival features a diverse lineup spanning electronic, rock, hip-hop, indie, and more, with multiple stages and interactive installations designed to immerse attendees in a creative experience. Artists performing at OMF can expect a dynamic environment that encourages experimentation, collaboration, and connection with other creatives in the scene.

📌 Application Deadline: November 15, 2025 // CLICK HERE TO APPLY.

Treefort Music Fest

📍 Where: Boise, ID

📆 When: March 25 – 29, 2026

Treefort Music Fest is a five-day celebration of music, art, and culture in downtown Boise. The festival features over 400 artists performing across more than 20 venues, covering genres from indie rock and electronic to hip-hop and folk. Alongside music, Treefort offers themed “forts” like Storyfort, Filmfort, and Kidfort, giving artists opportunities to collaborate, showcase creative projects, and connect with fans and other creatives in an immersive, multi-disciplinary environment.

📌 Application Deadlines: Submissions are FREE until September 12, 2025. After 9/12, Treefort submissions will cost $10 and will go up to $20 for the months of October and November. // CLICK HERE TO APPLY. 

The New Colossus Festival

📍 Where: New York, NY

📆 When: March 3 – 8, 2026

The New Colossus Festival is a six-day showcase held across multiple independent venues in NYC’s Lower East Side. The festival features over 180 emerging artists from around the world, offering a platform for international talent to connect with new audiences and industry professionals. In addition to live performances, the festival includes the “Colossal Conversations” music conference, providing opportunities for networking and professional development, too.

📌 Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 // CLICK HERE TO APPLY.