The Northern Nights Music Festival returns to the stunning redwood forests of Northern California from July 18 to 20, 2025, offering a unique blend of electronic music, legal cannabis culture, and wellness-focused activities. Held at Cook’s Valley Campground in Piercy, CA, this event is celebrated for its pioneering integration of cannabis into the festival experience and its commitment to sustainability and community.
About the Northern Nights Music Festival 2025
Northern Nights is one of the few music festivals in the United States that features an onsite legal cannabis marketplace. Attendees aged 21 and over can purchase and consume a wide range of cannabis products in designated areas, making it a landmark event in the evolving relationship between cannabis, music, and public gathering spaces.
Since its inception, the festival has earned a reputation not only for its impressive musical lineup but also for its immersive natural setting, progressive policy stance, and strong focus on wellness and education.
Location and Dates
- Venue: Cook’s Valley Campground, Piercy, California
- Dates: July 18–20, 2025
- Website: northernnights.org
What to Expect in 2025
- A Diverse Musical Lineup. The 2025 edition will feature performances from more than 50 artists, spanning electronic, house, hip-hop, and other genres. Music is performed across multiple stages, including the iconic River Stage, set beside the Eel River, and the Grove Stage, surrounded by ancient redwoods for a truly immersive sound experience.
- Legal Cannabis Market. Northern Nights has made history by integrating a legal cannabis retail experience directly into the festival. Attendees can explore curated cannabis vendors in the Tree Lounge, sample new strains, and engage with industry professionals. In collaboration with local growers, including Humboldt Seed Company, the festival even features its own custom cannabis strain.
- Wellness and Sustainability. A key focus of the event is holistic well-being and environmental consciousness. Daily activities include yoga sessions, meditation, sound healing, and educational workshops covering topics like cannabis cultivation, sustainable living, and personal health. The festival is also dedicated to eco-conscious practices such as waste reduction and local sourcing.
- Art and Culture. Besides to music and cannabis, Northern Nights showcases a variety of interactive art installations, workshops, and cultural experiences that reflect the creativity and diversity of its community. The combination of music, art, and nature provides a rich, multi-sensory journey for attendees.
- Camping and Accommodations. General admission includes free tent camping, but the festival also offers VIP camping, car camping, and glamping options. Shower facilities, water stations, and food vendors are available onsite, creating a comfortable and inclusive environment.
Ticket Information
- General Admission: Tickets start at $389
- VIP Packages: Available with premium perks
- Minimum Age: 18+ to attend; 21+ for alcohol and cannabis use
- Purchase: Tickets and camping passes can be bought directly at northernnights.org
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cannabis consumption allowed during the festival?
Yes. Northern Nights is one of the only festivals in the country with a licensed cannabis retail and consumption area. Attendees aged 21 and over can legally purchase and consume cannabis products within designated zones.
What should I bring to the festival?
Essential items include your ticket (printed or digital), valid photo ID, camping gear (if applicable), reusable water bottles, sunscreen, and layered clothing. For cannabis purchases, a valid government-issued ID is required to verify you are over 21.
Are there wellness and non-music activities available?
Absolutely. Northern Nights places strong emphasis on wellness and education. Attendees can join yoga and meditation classes, attend cannabis learning sessions, participate in sustainability workshops, and enjoy a variety of interactive art experiences throughout the weekend.