Put on Your Dancing Shoes: March-April 2024 Music Festivals

Begin a tour in March through the eclectic tapestry of musical genres, from the indie and rock echoes signaling the last chills of winter to the warm, vibrant pulses of dance music and the resonant blossoms of jazz and soul heralding the full bloom of spring. Marching from the chilled whispers of winter into spring's jubilant embrace, each city in our melody marathon—Austin, Miami, and Savannah—presents its rhythm and culture.

Catch the wave of innovation at Austin's SXSW, revel in Miami's dance anthems during Music Week and Ultra Festival, and bask in the melodic heritage of Savannah's storied Music Festival. As each city amps the excitement with its signature festivals, remember it's not just about the tunes. These hubs of harmony also dish out tantalizing eats and snug retreats, perfect for any festivalgoer looking to refuel and recharge.

South by Southwest (SXSW), March 8 – 16

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SXSW is more than a music festival—it is a convergence of tech, film, and interactive media that draws a global audience. Attendees explore a vast landscape of showcases, exhibitions, and live performances, all while rubbing elbows with thought leaders and creatives from across the spectrum of entertainment and technology. With its finger on the pulse of the future, SXSW offers a forward-thinking experience where culture, conversation, and innovation merge in a vibrant celebration of the visionary​​.

The lineup of musical acts is a testament to the festival's global pull. It features artists like The Deslondes from New Orleans and international talents like Taipei’s The Dinosaur’s Skin and Tokyo’s Helsinki Lambda Club, ensuring that attendees are treated to a diverse musical palette.

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A diverse conference lineup includes panels on healthcare technology integration, the realities and possibilities of quantum computing, and a spotlight on authentic Indigenous storytelling through FX's Reservation Dogs. These sessions reflect SXSW’s role as a nexus for forward-thinking professionals across various industries.

For a luxurious stay in Austin during SXSW 2024, consider the Four Seasons Hotel Austin or the Austin Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels, a short walk or bike ride from the festival’s heart. The Four Seasons Hotel Austin offers an immersive Texas-themed spa experience with treatments that use local sage for a holistic journey involving aromatherapy, river stones massage, and regional herbs and florals. These treatments embody the essence of Texas through rejuvenation and relief.

While Austin doesn't currently boast any Michelin Star restaurants due to the absence of a Michelin Guide for Texas, the city is home to several dining establishments that could qualify for such an honor if the Guide were to expand there. Culinary adventurers can savor the innovation at Uchi with its contemporary Japanese cuisine, experience the farm-to-table magic of Emmer & Rye's seasonal dim sum service, and embrace the communal dining and ever-changing menu of Barley Swine, which champions local produce and creativity. Each restaurant presents a unique journey, promising to excite your palate and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Miami Music Week, March 19 – 24

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Shifting from the eclectic blend of SXSW, Miami Music Week offers a sun-soaked foray into the pulsating heart of electronic dance music. This coastal city swaps the indie and tech scenes for beachfront beats and vibrant nightlife, setting the stage for a different sensory celebration.

As the core of Miami Music Week, the Ultra Music Festival presents an electrifying lineup of the world's top DJs and electronic acts, offering attendees an unforgettable escape into the world of EDM.

Beyond the main stages, the week is peppered with pool parties, exclusive club events, and artist showcases, enveloping the city in an unstoppable rhythm. Sagamore Hotel South Beach elevates the classic pool party, featuring a line-up curated by industry giants. Revelers can opt for single-day or 5-day VIP passes, affording luxuries such as an exclusive balcony with panoramic stage views, private bars to dodge the queues, and a VIP Tent for close-up interactions with artists.

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Miami boasts a range of luxury accommodations, from high-rise hotels with panoramic ocean views to boutique art-deco-inspired stays, each offering a slice of South Florida's luxury. Imagine starting your day with unobstructed ocean views at Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach, where the Mediterranean vibes of the property are complemented by rooms and suites decked out with Italian kitchens, marble-rich bathrooms, and expansive balconies offering captivating vistas.

In the heart of the vibrant Faena District, Faena Hotel Miami Beach brings to life a blend of art deco elegance and artful luxury, where plush furnishings meet remarkable artwork, including a Damien Hirst piece. The hotel's flair for the dramatic is paralleled by its world-class dining experiences and a spa that promises South American-inspired healing treatments.

Miami's culinary scene shines brightly under the Michelin stars, with 11 restaurants receiving one-star recognition for their high-quality cooking that demands a visit. L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon is the only two-starred establishment in Florida. From the modern American creativity at Ariete to the distinct contemporary Italian offerings at Boia De, each Michelin-starred venue promises a sensory delight. For those who crave an immersive dining affair, Cote Miami blends the best Korean barbecue with the finesse of an American steakhouse. At the same time, The Den at Azabu Miami Beach offers a hidden sushi experience steeped in Japanese tradition. These elite eateries, alongside others that have won accolades for exceptional cocktails and sommelier expertise, guarantee a gastronomic journey that's as lavish as unforgettable during your time in Miami.

Savannah Music Festival (SMF), March 28 – April 13

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As your musical journey draws to a close, we arrive in the charming city of Savannah for its serene ambiance and to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of sounds at the 35th Savannah Music Festival. This last stop offers a reflective retreat from the whirlwind of festivals, where the leisurely pace of life and the historic beauty of Savannah provides a perfect backdrop for the diverse and soulful performances that define the festival.

Music lovers gather to celebrate the diversity of musical talent across jazz, classical, American, and global roots music at SMF 2024. Kicking off with GRAMMY Award-winning jazz vocalist Samara Joy, the festival promises unforgettable performances by acts including Renée Fleming, Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, Emanuel Ax, and Oumou Sangaré. SMF is 17 days filled with live performances that showcase genre standard-bearers and introduce festival debuts and unique collaborations, such as new chamber music works and genre-bending crossover concerts. This year's festival is a vibrant reflection of SMF's commitment to celebrating acclaimed artists and discovering new musical landscapes.

After the shows, whether you're seeking the pinnacle of luxury or the uniqueness of boutique experiences, Savannah caters to every preference with its top hotels.

For those who desire the finest in luxury and sophistication, the Perry Lane Hotel, A Luxury Collection Hotel, stands out with its exquisite blend of old-world charm and contemporary elegance. This hotel boasts a stunning rooftop pool, an art collection that captures the spirit of Savannah, and a guitar-lending program for music enthusiasts. Peregrin's signature rooftop bar is a must-visit for panoramic views and artisanal cocktails, ensuring a stay marries luxury with cultural immersion.

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On the boutique side, the River Street Inn offers a cozy retreat with its historical charm and modern amenities. After its recent renovation, the hotel features rooms with exposed Savannah Grey Brick and energy-efficient lighting, enhancing its riverside appeal. Guests can enjoy nightly happy hours, evening turndown service with handmade treats, and a prime location that offers easy access to the city's vibrant riverfront.

Elevating Southern cuisine to new heights, The Grey offers a menu that changes with the seasons, creatively prepared by James Beard award-winning chef Mashama Bailey. Located in a restored Art Deco bus station, this establishment symbolizes Savannah's culinary renaissance, blending familiarity with innovation. For an upscale Chinese dining experience, Flock to the Wok entices with its soup dumplings and a grand interior that complements its craft sake cocktails and whole fish dishes. Each restaurant, from the elegant Olde Pink House with its comfort food classics to the brunch favorite Collins Quarter, encapsulates the essence of Savannah, inviting diners to indulge in flavors that are as diverse and welcoming as the city itself.

“Fly me to the moon.”

Music connects us. From the eclectic vibes of Austin to the beachside beats of Miami and the charming melodies of Savannah, these festivals offer experiences that promise memories that will last a lifetime.

Air Charter Guide offers comprehensive and up-to-date flight booking information for those traveling to these grand events. Their commitment to excellence ensures your journey to Austin, Miami, or Savannah is as splendid as the experiences awaiting you.