Big Ears Festival

A "brainy" festival focusing on experimental and genre-defying music.

Expect a jazz lineup with a laid back, city, and boutique intimate feel. No camping.

Curious minds. A solid first campout with prep.

Heads up before you go: dense scheduling.

Primary genre is Jazz. Lineups change every year, so treat Jazzas the festival's enduring sound rather than a promise about any single artist.

Held in Knoxville, Tennessee (South region). No camping and hotel-based stays work well. Book lodging early for popular weekends and confirm details on the official site.

We rate this 3/5 for beginners - "Doable if you prep". A solid first campout with prep.