25 Festival Hair Ideas
So, you scored tickets to a festival (yay you!). You’ve got your outfit sorted, your accessories lined up, and even your sunscreen ready to go.
The right hairstyle can make you look like you belong on the main stage, even if you’re just trying not to spill your overpriced lemonade in the crowd.
I’ve tried my fair share of festival hair looks over the years—some turned out magical, others… let’s just say they’ll never see Instagram again.
To save you from the same trial-and-error mess, I’ve rounded up 25 festival hair ideas that will have you feeling equal parts glam, edgy, and effortlessly cool.
1. Space Buns with Glitter
The classic. Space buns scream “festival ready” louder than your friend screaming for water in the heat.
Add glitter to your roots for sparkle that holds up even when the headliners run late.
2. Braided Crown
Want to look like a literal goddess? Wrap two braids across your head and boom—you’ve got a halo. Bonus: keeps hair out of your face while you dance.
3. Mermaid Waves
Loose, beachy waves are always a hit. A little sea salt spray and you’ll look like you washed up from Coachella’s mythical ocean stage.
4. Rainbow Highlights
Temporary hair chalk or spray gives you pops of color without the commitment. Pink, blue, green—go full unicorn.
5. Bubble Braids
These are super fun and surprisingly easy. Tie sections of your ponytail with elastics and fluff them out for that bubble effect. Extra points for neon elastics.
6. Fishtail Braid with Beads
Fishtails feel extra whimsical at festivals. Thread in some beads or tiny charms and you’ll catch the sunlight every time you turn your head.
7. Glitter Roots
Why fight greasy hair on day two when you can cover it in glitter? It’s a look, it’s a lifesaver, and it photographs like a dream.
8. Dutch Braids into Space Buns
This one’s basically the best of both worlds: braided structure + playful buns. IMO, it’s one of the most practical hairstyles if you’re running around all day.
9. Half-Up Ponytail with Scrunchie
Sometimes simple wins. A ’90s-inspired half-up pony with a bold scrunchie works with any outfit, from boho dresses to edgy leather fits.
10. Hair Tinsel
Yes, hair tinsel is back and it’s not just for holiday parties. It’s subtle, sparkly, and looks amazing under festival lights.
11. High Pony with Scarf
Tie a colorful scarf around your ponytail and let the ends flow with your hair. Easy, stylish, and perfect for hiding day-three hair struggles.
12. Faux Hawk Braids
Not ready to shave the sides of your head? (Yeah, same.) Fake the look with tight braids along the sides and a voluminous center section.
13. Braided Pigtails
Throwback but make it fashion. Add colorful extensions or ribbons for extra flair. Trust me, it’s way cuter than it sounds.
14. Low Bun with Face-Framing Strands
Chill, minimal, but still chic. Leave a few loose waves around your face for a softer look that works with oversized sunglasses.
15. Pastel Temporary Dye
Soft pinks, purples, or blues give you that dreamy vibe. Wash it out Monday morning before your boss wonders if you joined a pop band.
16. Mohawk Braids with Glitter
This one screams rockstar energy. Braid straight down the center of your head, tease it for volume, and sprinkle in glitter.
17. Half-Up Space Buns
If full space buns feel too “cartoon character,” try the half-up version. It’s playful but a little more wearable.
18. Boho Headband Look
Slip on a beaded or floral headband over loose waves and instantly look like you belong in a vintage Woodstock photo.
19. Braids with Shells
This one’s for the beach-festival crowd. Add small shells to your braids for that mermaid-meets-hippie aesthetic.
20. Sleek High Ponytail
Sometimes you just want sharp, clean, and powerful. A high pony keeps it fierce, and it pairs well with bold makeup.
21. Messy Bun with Glitter Spray
Messy buns don’t have to be lazy. Throw in some glitter spray and suddenly you look like you actually planned it that way.
22. Side Braid with Ribbons
A chunky side braid looks dreamy, and weaving in ribbons adds personality (plus color that lasts longer than chalk).
23. Temporary Metallic Tattoos for Hair
Yes, they exist! Stick them on your strands or part line for a shiny detail that catches the light. Super low-effort, high-reward.
24. Afro with Hair Rings
If you’ve got natural curls, accentuate them with hair cuffs or rings. It’s bold, regal, and absolutely festival-perfect.
25. Braided Ponytail with Neon Elastics
Last but not least: the neon ponytail. Braid it tight and secure each section with different neon elastics. Bonus: it glows under blacklight.
Pro Tips for Festival Hair Survival
Because let’s be real, half the battle isn’t creating the style—it’s keeping it alive through sweat, dancing, and questionable weather.
- Dry shampoo is your best friend. Pack a travel-size bottle and thank me later.
- Hairpins, elastics, and clips are not optional. Bring extras because you will lose some in the grass.
- Glitter glue > loose glitter. Otherwise, you’ll still be sparkling at Thanksgiving dinner.
- Hydration matters. Dehydration makes your hair look sad too, FYI.
Why Festival Hair Matters (Yes, It Really Does)
Ever notice how your confidence skyrockets when your hair looks on point? At festivals, your hair isn’t just hair—it’s a statement. It shows off your personality, your creativity, and maybe even your bravery (hello, neon faux hawk).
And let’s be honest: festivals are sweaty, chaotic, and sometimes downright messy. A good hairstyle keeps you from fussing with your hair every five minutes so you can focus on the music and memories.
Final Thoughts
Festival hair isn’t about perfection—it’s about expression. Whether you go full glitter goddess or keep it chill with a scrunchie, the best festival hairstyle is the one that makes you feel amazing. Personally, I live for space buns and glitter roots (yes, I’m that person), but maybe you’re a sleek ponytail kind of friend.
