For music fans, this is a very special time of the year. Not because of Black History Month, or Valentine’s Day or even awards season. In the midst of this frigid winter, the only thing on the mind of music fans is dancing, sweat-drenched, under the hot summer sun at their favorite music festival.

The summer festival season might be a while away, but lineups for big festivals across the country are being announced daily.

Today’s festivals are a far cry from the days of Woodstock, but the intensity and artistry are still present in full force. Festivals still bring out some of the biggest acts in rock, but they are especially good at exposing the world to artists that otherwise could go unnoticed. And it’s not just rock acts at these festivals anymore.

Rappers, techno DJs and R&B stars are all welcome to share the stage with the rockers and folk singers that old festival goers are used to seeing. Headlining multiple fests this summer is rap’s architect himself, Jay-Z.

The drug culture is another festival component still intact from the days of Woodstock. Many describe music festivals as having an “open air drug market,” where you can find just about any way to get high, and trip and roll your way through the weekend. But you don’t need to be high to enjoy this year’s festivals.

One of the biggest festivals every year is Coachella in Indio, Calif.

Coachella features some of the hottest names in alternative and indie rock and has expanded to include big names in all genres. Some artists to watch out for at the festival this year include Passion Pit, Vampire Weekend, David Guetta, Phoenix, MGMT and the aforementioned Jay-Z.

For the mere price of $269, you can purchase a pass that grants you access to three days filled with music and free camping.

If a flight to California is going to leave you strapped for cash, then a more economical choice could be the Bamboozle Festival, located in East Rutherford, N.J.

The festival features bands that mainly fit the alternative and hard-rock tag. Headliners this year are Weezer, MGMT, Drake, Paramore and Ke$ha.

Some other acts to watch out for include Motion City Soundtrack, Say Anything, Girl Talk and Minus the Bear. A two-day pass can be purchased for $104.

Looking for something a bit more outdoorsy than a concert in a parking lot off the New Jersey Turnpike? Then the Bonnaroo Festival in Manchester, Tenn. is exactly what you are looking for.

Located on a 700-acre farm, a ticket to the festival costs $234.50 and includes four days filled with music and access to a large camping site. More than just a music festival, Bonnaroo features contemporary artists, comedians and fun activities such as silent disco parties, raves and free movies.

Featuring a little something for everyone, the lineup boasts big names such as Dave Matthews Band, Stevie Wonder, Jay-Z, Kings of Leon, Kid Cudi, Regina Spektor and The xx.

Although the combination of a festival pass and plane ticket hardly seems feasible to a broke college student, a music festival is sure to guarantee an unforgettable four days.

Jeremy Goldstein, a junior at Binghamton University, described his experience as such.

“It was just a free experience. There were so many people who just wanted to socialize and have a good time,” Goldstein said. “Everyone was so peaceful and complacent. Constantly surrounded with the pressure and responsibility of college, it felt really good to get away with friends and enjoy some awesome bands while relaxing on the grass eating oily food. Heaven.”