By Molly Chappell

www.10klf.com

July 23-26

Soo Pass Ranch, Detroit Lakes, MN

The10,000 Lakes Festival (10KLF) has set the tone for what a summer festival should be— tons of great music, a tranquil backdrop, and excellent vibes. This year promises to be no different, with over sixty bands slated to perform. The event is more than just a concert; it’s a destination. Last year 10,000 people flocked to the festival to enjoy the lakeside camping in the northwoods of Minnesota. Surprising, considering the event is most definitely off the beaten path. It is held in a 60-acre festival bowl surrounded by 600 acres of camp grounds. The festival bowl has five stages, including a 130-year-old barn. The lineup for this year includes big names like the Flaming Lips, Phil Lesh and Friends, Michael Franti, and George Clinton, but the festival also supports emerging artists. Musicians are invited, via the festival’s website to the OurStage 10KLF streaming channel, and according to fan-rankings five bands will perform at the festival. Travel time: (As calculated by mapquest.com from Denver, Colo. to Detroit Lakes, Minn.)

Total Est. Time: 13 hours, 55 minutes

Total Est. Distance: 955 Miles

YOU NEED TO KNOW: This year, attendants could save money by flying and sending their camping gear ahead of time. The closest airports are Fargo, ND, or Minneapolis, and while the festival doesn’t have official shuttles, they are working with a company who will shuttle people to and from the airports this year. PRICES: $$$ CAMPING: Yes Artists: Phil Lesh and Friends The Flaming Lips Michael Franti and Spearhead Leftover Salmon Mickey Hart Band feat. Kimock & Porter George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic Medeski Scofield Martin & Wood Slightly Stoopid Dark Star Orchestra WookieFoot Time Reynolds and TR3 The Bad Plus JJ Grey & MOFRO Bonerama EOTO Panjea w/ Michael Kang The Waybacks Everyone Orchestra Secret Chiefs 3 The New Mastersounds The Wood Brothers Dub Trio Cornmeal Family Groove Company Kinetix