Rise and shine, People of Tomorrow! We hope you’re ready to go in with a bang today, because this first kaleidoscopic stretch of sets will be one to remember. Choose a scorching set by Palestinian queen of techno, Sama’ Abdulhadi, or the thumping classic beats of Drumcode boss Adam Beyer, both in Atmosphere, or drop into CORE for the tranceinfused high-energy rhythms of DJ Heartstring and DJ Fuckoff ; today is one for enthusiasts of the future. Tomorrowland’s largest stages also feature an incredible line-u, however; take the performance by Sefa, one of hard dance’s biggest stars, as well an official end show by Q-dance at the Library. Last but not least, we wholeheartedly suggest that you witness Swedish House Mafia’s first appearance since 2012, which will quite literally set the Mainstage on fire. This is going to be a feast for all the senses!
Almost exactly 12 years after their legendary set in 2012, the Swedish House Mafia are back at Tomorrowland! Their set will undoubtedly make you feel more alive than ever before – so make sure to be at the Mainstage at 22:45.
Tomorrowland is full of new treats for you to explore, such as the stunning Planaxis stage, as well as many smaller details around the Holy Grounds. Don’t forget to look around, as it’ll be a feast for the eyes!
Friends… Can you feel it? The air brimming with excitement? Your heart fluttering in your chest, pulling you towards the magic in store for you? That must be the effect of yesterday’s momentous Gathering, which made the weekend’s first notes resound across DreamVille’s verdant greens. That Gathering, friends, gave an enticing taste of what’s to come, and now, you find yourself aching – aching for LIFE, for your first foray into the lush paradise of Silvyra. Fortunately, it is not far off. Just a few hours, minutes, heartbeats now, and you will crest that legendary hill to lay eyes upon the Mainstage. Over the next few days, much is to unfold
here, and there will be much for you to learn. The spectacle of LIFE, after all, is neverending. No matter how often you look, you will always find something new, as the living fabric of Tomorrowland constantly grows and evolves, harnessing primordial cosmic harmonies to shift into evermore shapes and sounds. And beyond the Mainstage, friends, where will you choose to explore? Which curtains of vines and draperies of leaves will you push aside to encounter yet another astonishing sight? From Freedom to Library, from Elixir to Planaxis, the choice is yours. Follow your aching heart into LIFE!
You’d be forgiven to think Tomorrowland Today is written by the fairies. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Thanks for everything, you bunch of lovely writers, designers, photographers, producers and editors, you know who you are!
THE ELEMENTS OF LIFE
LIFE as we know it is the greatest miracle of all: a riot of movement, colours, smells, and sounds, existing in perfect harmony across aeons of time. The foundation of all life, as we citizens of Silvyra are well aware, lies in the quiet, unwavering existence of plants; without complaint, they turn four essential elements – light, air, water, and earth – into nourishment, a breathable atmosphere, and a livable climate for us all. Light, which allows us to see and nature to grow, is essential to this process. Here is how it is involved in the wondrous fabric of creation.
LIGHT
In the beginning, there was light. There was starlight, of course, illuminating the bare surface of the world even before living beings were present to bear its witness. But amongst the stars, since the very beginning, there was another light: the blue glow of the primordial force of life. This is the originary glow of cosmic harmony, an energy that flows like a river, connecting people, flowers and critters to the eternal movement of celestial bodies.
For the lush vegetation of Silvyra, from the mighty aedela flower down to the tiniest tufts of green, light represents the force of life itself: the plants soak it up with their broad leaves and colourful petals, using it to power the alchemical transformations at the heart of their existence. At night, when the bright glare of the sun makes place for the ancient shimmer of the stars, that light comes out again, as our green friends glow up with the radiant blue that they’ve absorbed from the cosmos, attracting pollinators from far and wide to spread their seed.
Once every five seasons, a fabled event happens in Silvyra: the Conjunction. Normally, Silvyra’s sun and two moons are beacons of light unto themselves, but during the Conjunction, they all line up. This celestial dance amplifies the sun and moons’ energy and causes the natural life of the realm to prosper and renew, so that the harmonious, ancient light of the universe may continue to reverberate. This weekend is your chance to participate in that event – will you catch those beaming rays and let them nourish you?
“United we are Like all the sun and stars United we are We’ve come so far”
Hardwell – United We Are
4-5
GLOBAL JOURNEY
Read the latest about what’s going on around Tomorrowland.
6-9
DREAMVILLE
• Practical info & campsite map
• Activities & sports classes at DreamVille
12-13
THE MARKETPLACE
This is where you get everything you’ll need at DreamVille!
11, 17, 22
DAILY WISDOM
The latest news on everything Tomorrowland.
23-27
FOCUS ON THE MUSIC
• Timetable
• Lucas & Steve
• Artist bios
OPENING HOURS
The gates of Tomorrowland open at 12:00 on Friday, and from then on it’s non-stop dancing until the gates shut at 01:00 on Friday and Saturday and 00:00 on Sunday. Festival entrance from DreamVille is possible until 23:00 (Friday and Saturday) and 22:00 (Sunday). From DreamVille, festival re-entry is possible after 17:00. Re-entry is not allowed with a day ticket.
FIRST AID
No one wants to carry a lot of stuff around on the dance floor and there is no need to. You can find the locations of the lockers on the floorplan in this newspaper or in the app.
Medical emergency? Look for the ‘First Aid’ signs or find First Aid locations on your floorplan. There is always a doctor with every team. To bring medication onto the grounds you will need a doctor’s certificate.
GLOBAL WANDER OFTEN,
CLEMENS & JULIA
Germany
“The Party Flight was magical! The best part was when they dimmed the cabin lights, and the party really started mid-air. The welcome committee waving flags at the stairs also added a nice touch. This was actually our first Party Flight, and we didn’t even know we booked it from Ibiza to Brussels. So we guess it was a surprise Party Flight – even better!”
Airplanes, trains, buses, bikes: whatever means of transport got you here, you have finally reached the final stage of your quest. And you are not alone, as Tomorrowland’s Global Journey brought thousands of people from all over the world together to share the same goal, a mutual pilgrimage. Countless air miles were traversed, kilometres of railroad tracks were covered, and for the first time this year, some People of Tomorrow even ate dust on feral gravel roads by bike. Over 46,000 people from all over the world will have embarked on the Global Journey of a lifetime after these two weekends. Here’s some facts and figures showing you that your miles were worth the while.
The great American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson once stated that ‘to find the journey’s end in every step of the road is wisdom‘, emphasising that enjoying the journey is every bit as important as arriving at the destination. With a destination as special as Tomorrowland, we might take such words with a grain of salt. And yet there is truth to them, as Global Journey has become quite the travail over the years. Transforming strangers into friends and turning travel into an unforgettable main event in and of itself, Global Journey transcends the concept of a mere trip; it’s about embarking on extraordinary adventures with fellow People of Tomorrow from every corner of the globe. This year, Tomorrowland has expanded its selection of packages, ensuring that everyone can discover their ideal match.
ON THE RAILROAD TRACK
A journey by train is an adventure unlike anything else: there’s something magical about the rhythm of a train rolling along the tracks. The Global Journey Train packages offer the ultimate blend of speed, smoothness and style. Going over and above, the Party Train from Amsterdam and Düsseldorf even featured live DJ sets on board. New in store this year was the Train of Amicorum, an overnight sleeper train that crossed no less than four countries before coming to Antwerp.
FLY SO HIGH INTO THE SKY
Since 2012, Tomorrowland’s partnership with Brussels Airlines has been bringing the world to the festival’s
LUCAS & KAREN
Brazil
“We’ve been on the Party Flight before, but this time it beat all expectations. The new design is stunning, inside and out. We actually met during Discover Europe in Berlin two years ago, and now live together in São Paulo. And we just got married! Living just 30 minutes from Itu, Tomorrowland Brasil is definitely where we will be going next in October.”
JOURNEY WONDER ALWAYS
doorstep. This year, People of Tomorrow flew in from over 30 countries and 50 cities from every corner of the world. For a select few Party Flights, Global Journey enhanced the experience by having them mutate to an actual electronic dance music party at 30,000 feet in the sky. Amare, Tomorrowland’s trusted mechanical bird, also got a complete makeover: it sprouted the world’s first augmented reality paint job, bringing the magical creature to life when scanned via your favorite social apps like TikTok and Instagram.
WHEELS GO ROUND
For those located a bit closer to the Holy Grounds, Bus Packages took no less than 4,000 travelers from France, Germany, the Netherlands, UK, Denmark, and Luxembourg straight to Boom, dropping them off right where they needed to be and maximising all the party potential. And for the more adventurous sojourners amongst you, this year saw the first edition of the Tomorrowland x Ridley Cycling Package, introducing a new cycling experience. Limited to a small group of 20 likeminded People of Tomorrow, the three-day cycling package welcomed cyclists from all levels to explore some of Belgium’s most historic road and gravel routes on a unique Tomorrowland x Ridley Gravel Bike.
MORE TO EXPLORE
For those of you in need of a longer voyage around the world of Tomorrow, you could get the Discover Europe package where you were able to discover 3, 4, or 5 European cities, including recommendations from DJs and locals for the best bars, the nicest restaurants, and the hottest clubs of Amsterdam, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Brussels, Ibiza, Lisbon and Prague. Should you have wished to keep it more local, there was the Discover Belgium package also available. Tomorrowland’s home turf, Belgium, is a country rich in history and enchanting wonders. Discover Belgium took you to cities like Ghent, Bruges, Brussels, and Antwerp for an immersive experience of Belgium’s famous beers and culinary delights. The cherry on top of the extra packages was, no doubt, the 20 Years Celebration Package: a week-long surprise-filled adventure including 3 nights in a miracle hotel, a Tomorrowland Full Madness Comfort Pass, special accommodation at DreamVille, and a bunch more revelries that we will leave to your imagination for now. But remember… the Journey is never over.
DAVID, ISMAEL, ANGEL, CHARLIE
Canary Islands
“We’ve been counting down the days, changing our group chat name daily. We barely have any trains back home, let alone one with a DJ on board, so this was just such a crazy experience. It’s hard to explain; you just have to live it yourself. The energy, the music, and the people made it unforgettable. It’s been a dream come true!”
Canada
“We’ve been traveling Europe for a month, and this Party Train is the best thing we’ve done so far without question. And we still have Invited Brussels and Tomorrowland to go! Our suitcases are also packed with outfits. We’ll probably send some back to Canada after the weekend, because it’s getting heavy and we’re continuing our travels.”
SANDRA & BRANDON
dreamville
putting down roots for life
20 years of Tomorrowland – how many beatific nights at DreamVille does that make? For the colourful People of Tomorrow arriving today, the answer really doesn’t matter; it’s only the here and now that counts. Buoyed up by delightful warm weather, campers are spilling onto the green fields in droves, finding a spot to put down roots for the next few days. And once the tents are up, the journey begins, and everyone gets ready for The Gathering. Here, the first seeds are planted for new friendships with people from all over the world. In the coming days, those will blossom into something more. How will you spend those new, life-giving DreamVille nights?
Sereen & Eve, Singapore
This is the fourth time in a row that Sereen and Eve are at Tomorrowland. “Every year, we reconvene with friends we have met and gathered here in previous years. We all come from different countries, but we never fail to find each other again on DreamVille.”
Tatjana & Robin, Germany
“We’re looking forward to the grass staying green and the sky staying blue, because we don’t want any rain.” Being siblings, this German duo has just the solution. “We’ll do lots of sunny dances together, just like we used to at home when we were kids!”
Eirin, Norway
This is Eirin’s very first time in Belgium and also her first time at Tomorrowland. She is most looking forward to meeting new, lovely people and, of course, seeing all the artists. Tiësto is her favourite for the weekend!
easy morning
At DreamVille, there’s always plenty to do, but did you know you can enjoy multiple sports every day? Start your day in a relaxed way and leave all your stress behind at the Balance Area, next to the Gathering stage. You can do activities like Yin Yoga or Bodybalance with professional instructors here. This will give you a boost for exploring the festival for the rest of the day, almost like an Elixir of Life. Prefer a more high-octane start to your day? Then try a Les Mills class at the Recovery Area. Which sport will we see you shine in?
balance area
09:00 TOGA NIDRA
09:45 LES MILLS PILATES 10:30 YIN YOGA
11:15 KUNDALINI YOGA
12:00 HATHA YOGA
12:45 BODYBALANCE 13:00 SILENT DISCO YOGA
& Dominica, Ecuador
Besides Veronica, Dominica has brought her ex-boyfriend. “We’ve already showered together, so I think we are having a Tomorrowland romance. It feels like reconnecting. Who knows, maybe we’ll get back together completely. Tomorrowland unites, right?!”
“This is my second weekend in a row; I was here last week too!” Last weekend, Morten was Moose’s absolute highlight. This weekend, he’s particularly excited about Boris Brechja, and eager to experience more music and enjoy unforgettable Tomorrowland adventures.
& Noelia, Argentina
This couple is on a European tour; they’ve already visited three European cities and will continue for a few more weeks after Tomorrowland. Wadiz is excited: “Tomorrowland is the highlight of our trip so far. It’s the biggest party in the world – I love it.”
Veronica
Moose, United States
Wadiz
Saïd & Lena, Switzerland
These two lovebirds are on the hunt for some music inspiration, and excited to experience the electrifying atmosphere. Saïd is a DJ in Switzerland and dreams of one day performing at a big, fabulous festival like Tomorrowland.
Pablo, Basque Country
blossom your day
Are you a true sports enthusiast in life? Then you’ll definitely feel the butterflies in your stomach with these intense workouts by Les Mills. At DreamVille, there’s a magical atmosphere every morning during these sports classes, so why not enjoy a workout to awaken your soul? Start your day, for example, with a Bodypump session to discover your strength, followed by a rhythmic Les Mills Dance class where you can practice your dance moves for later in the day. Or try one of the many other offerings from the schedule!
recovery area
09:30 LES MILLS SHAPES
10:00 LES MILLS GRIT
10:30 LES MILLS DANCE
11:00 BODYPUMP
11:30 BODYCOMBAT
12:00 LES MILLS STRENGTH DEVELOPMENT
12:30 LES MILLS DANCE
13:00 BODYCOMBAT 13:30 BODYATTACK
& Rafael, Brazil
Just married in Ibiza, Rafael and Aurea smile widely as they share the news. “Tomorrowland is our honeymoon. It’s so much better than a standard beach getaway. We wanted something truly unforgettable to celebrate our new life together, and this is perfect!”
“I absolutely love this kind of music. And when I saw that David Guetta is closing the weekend with a big show on the Mainstage, I was ecstatic! I’m going to get my spot ready now, and then we can head out to explore the festival grounds.”
Milan, France
Milan’s almost too busy relaxing to notice us coming. “I’m already tired,” he says, “even though it hasn’t even started. I read Tomorrowland Today every morning, so I’m really looking forward to seeing myself in it.” There you go, Milan – this one you will have to take home!
Aurea
THE THINGS THAT MAKE YOU LOVE TOMORROW
Always fully dedicated to making the world a more sustainable place, the Love Tomorrow Conference – taking place in between the two festival weekends – has become an annual favourite among anyone interested in the environment and sustainable lifestyles. Brand-new this year is the opportunity to share a ride to Tomorrowland with the carpooling platform, which you are invited to use for travel not only to the conference, but also to the festival. Head to carpooling.tomorrowland.com to find out more. Speaking of travelling sustainably, you can now earn rewards by opting for sustainable transportation to the festival. Simply submit proof of your eco-friendly travel through the Tomorrowland app and unlock exclusive Tomorrowland experiences as a token of appreciation!
The Recycle Club
Located in between the Recovery and Gathering areas, the Recycle Club makes it easier to do your part when it comes to circularity. Earn Recycle Tokens every time you hand in your blue waste bags at the club, then use them to gain access to the Secret Disco or even to buy certain Tomorrowland goodies. Do you need an extra Recycle Kit or are you curious to find out more about the recycling program? Just ask the Recycle Club staff !
LIVE IN THE RAVE
A classic and much-beloved part of the festival by now, especially with the unlucky birds without tickets, the Tomorrowland livestream is broadcast to all the major channels: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, YouTube Shorts, the website and the app. Invite your folks to watch along in crisp 4K footage, or ask your mates to spot you on the stream on the go – it’ll be a breeze thanks to the new vertical video setup being premiered this year. Viewers are welcome to switch between the live feeds from the Freedom stage and the Mainstage as they please, starting every day between 16:00 and 17:00 CET. In between the two weekends, 22-25 July, the very best Planaxis, CORE, Crystal Garden, Atmosphere, Freedom and Mainstage shows were broadcast through those very same channels. Watching them was the very best way to cherish that wonderful Tomorrowland anticipation!
GET APP TO DATE
Tomorrowland’s official app is the essential tool to stay up to date on the latest news, check the line-ups and listen to DJ sets, both live and on demand. Be sure to install the Tomorrowland app before you go to the festival today!
STARTING THE TRILOGY
Close followers of Tomorrowland knew it already: narratives, chapters, and stories of magic are an integral part of the Tomorrowland experience and just as important as the artists and their music. If you’re a close follower of the festival’s themes and an avid reader, we’ve got news for you: following the backstories of ‘Adscendo’ and ‘The Spirit of Life’, Tomorrowland’s first standalone novel will come out this fall and it’s the first part of the Book of Wisdom trilogy. All of this means that you are invited to step into your favourite world from the comfort of your own home, just as the first frosty winds arrive from the north. Pre-order this enchanting, one-of-a-kind page-turner in your language of choice via thegreatlibraryoftomorrow.com/novels.
THE GYM IS FOR EVERYONE
Thoughts like “people will judge me,” “I don't know what to wear,” “I don’t know how to use the equipment” and “I get overwhelmed” stem from a very real issue that many of us face: gymtimidation. Research shows it's typically women who experience higher levels of gym anxiety. Thankfully, adidas and Les Mills are ready to help you overcome gymtimidation, providing you with the right gear, friendly advice, and confidence-inducing group classes. Head on over to the Recovery Area on DreamVille – all levels of experience are more than welcome!
the marketplace
a one-stop shop for all your dreamville needs
DreamVille Bakery staff have been up since half past four in the morning to serve you baguettes.
Whether you’re landing here for the first time, or this is not in fact your first rodeo in the land of love and happiness that is DreamVille, a bit of well-meant advice always comes in handy. Allow us to take your hand then, dear inhabitant of DreamVille, and guide you through all the ins and outs of the Marketplace, making taking care of yourself and those around you a breeze. Prep for a weekend free of worries with everything that’s on offer at this one-stop shop for, well, everything!
A happy camper is a prepared camper, is what experienced outback experientialists à la Bear Grylls would say. But for the sake of conversation, let’s assume you are neither. Well then, with a bit of luck you’ve packed a pair of knickers, a toothbrush, a tent, and then surely, you’re good to go? If you read that line with a nod of approval, you’re either a bit of a minimalist who likes to keep things basic, or you’ve just not yet encountered the Camping Store by Camp Champ. Everything – and please, do take that literally – you need to camp, sleep, cook, and keep yourself safe and healthy in your tent is available here. If you’ve packed your outfit but forgot about the camping gear itself, drop by the store and get your tent, inflatable mattress, slippers, flashlight, can opener, sunscreen, or even a jar of vaseline. At the Camp Champ shop, we came across people with an ear-to-ear smile of happiness on their faces, having purchased party tents that will keep them protected from – hopefully – the sun.
But first: breakfast! For the very first year DreamVille’s Bakery is hosted by Croustico. They’ve been up since half past four in the morning to serve you baguettes, Danish pastries, Belgium’s famous ‘worstenbroodjes’… and they have gluten-free options as well. Carb up on the crispness and roll up your sleeves, we’ve got quite a way to go still.
Now that you have come this far, you can grant yourself a little present, and why not go for a Tomorrowland tattoo?
Time to pick your spot – and do take notice of the wind, the sun and your surroundings before choosing – and set up your tent. And allow us to share the following pro tip. On the Marketplace you can also find Yay’s Balloon Shop, where there will be a lot more than 99 Luftballons going over the counter over the course of the weekend. Their balloons come in all shapes, from unicorns and disco balls to flamingos and a two metre-wide heart. They are a perfect accessory to roam DreamVille with, but they have a practical use as well. Choose the craziest balloon, attach it firmly to your tent and behold: you have created a beacon that will help you find your home from miles away.
Onwards and upwards, now, as you simply cannot go to sleep later on an empty stomach. Time to take a tour of the Carrefour supermarket to gather some essentials to strengthen your inner spirit. There’s fresh fruits and veggies, BBQ meat, and drugstore essentials, as well as foldable camping chairs.
Now that you have come this far, you can grant yourself a little present, and why not go for a Tomorrowland tattoo? At the Tattoo Shop, you can choose from a selection of Tomorrowland-styled emblems and quotes and one of the 12 tattoo artists will live, love, and let the needle immortalise your festival experience onto your skin. However, if a whole day of travelling, unpacking and building up your home for the next few days has got you a bit overstimulated, slide over to the Loop Earplugs stand. They have two sets of Tomorrowland-branded earplugs: the Experience 2 is meant to fully enjoy the hardest and deepest of beats without compromising your hearing, while the Quiet pair is to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep. Live life at your volume, and always protect your ears!
We can imagine that will you feel a bit frazzled after this odyssey of practicalities, and we don’t blame you. Time to freshen up, so get yourself to the Angels of Beauty hair salon to get your hair styled, embroidered with glitter and flowers or – if you have one – get your beard a barber’s cut. That’s that, and now we’re at it: head over the Official Tomorrowland Store to browse for a new wardrobe, fully in style. Get a hat, shirt, batik attire, or even a scented candle with the aroma of Tomorrowland. If you are looking to give your OOT a more personalized touch, Stitchly’s embroiders can indulge your every wish. Bring your favourite picture or write down the quote you live by, and they will embroider it onto a shirt or sweater in less than 20 minutes.
Look at you, all shiny, fresh and ready to meet your forever ever after. You wouldn’t be the first to meet the love of your life here, so why not be prepared and get yourself a commitment ring or other piece of jewelry, just in case? At the Rams Jewelry shop you can choose from a variety of massive silver and 18 carat-gold Tomorrowland treasure like bracelets, rings and cufflinks. They’re a limited edition, so don’t sleep on these – your future mister or missus right will thank you later.
High time to take the lid off then, isn’t it? Slide your loafers across the Marketplace towards the Belgian Beers bar, take the stairs and take a seat on the terrace with its stunning views of DreamVille. Have a classic strong Belgian blond like Victoria, succumb to the silky texture and creamy head of the Tripel Karmeliet, feast on the pleasant citrusy hop flavours and the bitter finish of the Goose Island IPA… or try them all in due time. Belgium’s finest are to be savoured in a smart manner!
Now, before we send you off into the madness, take into account these few last notes from our end. While taking photos of the stages and scenery, and selfies with your trusted and new friends, your phone’s battery will die faster than usual. In order to keep it juiced up, you can take on a membership at the Charge Your Phone booth on the Marketplace. You’ll get a powerbank that you can swap for a new one once it’s empty after a charge or three. Should you, in the worst of cases, have lost your phone, next to the Charge Your Phone station you can get a new one at iFixers. They are your place to be for a local sim card with unlimited data as well as quick-fix repairs like broken screens. And now that you really, really really have all your bases covered… off into the fray you go! Enjoy your DreamVille stay!
THE PORTAL TO PARADISE
If you haven’t been there yet, you must at least be aware of Tulum, a place that is full of energetic jungles, unknown hideaways, and a high-frequency nightlife just waiting to be explored. It has slowly but surely become the world’s signature paradise. Brand-new at Tomorrowland this year is a little gateway to that very Mexican oasis! You will find it if you try, even if it’s hidden deep within the Holy Grounds of Tomorrowland. All you need to do is scan the QR code on one of the totem poles scattered around the festival site. Scanning these might give you access to a secret area known as the Portal to Paradise. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore and discover a new realm within the festival, all to do with Tulum and the new era of the Mexican Caribbean. Some facts to start your journey: not only is Tulum a beach resort, it is also the site of an ancient Maya settlement, and the place is surrounded by cenotes, the world’s prettiest natural swimming holes. Want to see more? Download the Tomorrowland app to begin your adventure, uncover the hidden clues, and set off on an unforgettable, exclusive Tulum experience – tropical, lush, and drenched in incredible electronic music. And those who manage to find all the totems have a chance to experience a trip to the destination of their dreams…
GIVE WINGS TO THE START OF YOUR DAY
Give wings to your Tomorrowland experience and start every day of the festival with a touch of magic. The Red Bull DreamVille Parade starts at the Marketplace at 13:00 sharp and guides you to the gates of the festival with a dynamic symphony of music and dance. Soundtracked by a twenty-strong marching band including dancers as well as musicians, the parade will kickstart your day the way only Red Bull can do. The first dance moves of the day? Check! Another unforgettable moment at your favourite festival? Double check! And while you’re there, keep an eye on the skies above Boom, and you may be amazed by what you’ll see up in the heavens…
FORTUNES OF THE FUTURE
JBL, the grand ambassador of portable sound, absolutely loves electronic music. Supporting young artists is incredibly important to the people behind these speakers, and now that they’re hosting House of Fortune, the bass-heavy company has invited some of their favourite talents to perform at the stage; Matisse & Sadko, Adam K, Maddix, and Sofia Cristo are just a few of the many noteworthy names booked to play here. House of Fortune is where imagination and music converge in a magical universe, so it only makes sense for such artists
SHOPPING IN PARADISE
DreamVille feels like home these days, all the more so when you’ve finally set up camp and unpacked everything. Now that you’ve settled in, made your bed and put on your spectacular party outfit, it is time to have something to drink and snack on. Ah, forgot to pack your favourite bites? No stress, as Carrefour has all the essentials in stock. Like every ideal village, DreamVille has its own supermarket and bakery at the Marketplace, where you can stock up on essentials and pop in for a meal run. Were you the first to wake up? Surprise your friends with croissants or bread! Are you not able to get up at all? Send your bestie for some energy bars! Post-festival midnight munchies? Make sure you have a bag of crisps or two ready! Whatever it is you’re craving, the Carrefour supermarket and bakery have all you need for a tasty DreamVille stay.
to kickstart their rise to the stars here. And you, too, will find the fortune you’ve been looking for at Tomorrowland’s one and only stage you can literally enjoy from all sides. In front of the booth, behind the booth, anywhere; dance wherever you want to dance while JBL invites the stars of tomorrow to take it away. While you dance, remember to look out for Raya, queen of illusions, as she unveils insights in futures and aspirations.
A BIRD’S-EYE VIEW
Just a stone’s throw away from the pulsating beats and energetic crowds, hidden in plain sight behind the Freedom stage, lies the mighty Home of Amare, the Brussels Airlines Ferris Wheel. Offering an unforgettable perspective, a ride into the sky on this contraption elevates the festival experience to new heights – literally. As you ascend, the vibrant kaleidoscope of lights and colours from the festival grounds unfolds before your eyes, casting a magical aura over the Holy Grounds. The bird’s-eye view will grant you a unique appreciation of the vastness of this fairytale, where friendship and unity converge under the spell of music. Though the views are breathtaking, incredibly romantic and selfie-worthy, the Brussels Airlines Ferris Wheel offers more than just a ride: it’s also a moment of serenity and reflection amidst the unrelenting festivities. So take a leap of faith and sneak behind the Freedom stage to embark on an enchanting journey above the clouds. The memories will linger way beyond this weekend.
GET INSPIRED TO LOVE TOMORROW
TOMORROW STARTS WITH TODAY’S CHANGE
Dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and creators on their journey towards sustainability, the annual Love Tomorrow Conference – taking place on the Thursday before Tomorrowland’s second weekend – boasts various keynote lectures by thinkers and doers from around the world. In addition, the event’s career market comes with excellent opportunities for whoever is considering working in this sector full of opportunities. In between the networking and education seminars, as well as in the evening, the conference offers an entertainment program, including but not limited to DJ sets by some of the world’s greatest selectors.
The world’s most inspirational speakers, united Topics that are central to the program include the environment and taking care of your fellow human beings as well as yourself. With a diverse range of activities and learning opportunities, set against the captivating backdrop of Tomorrowland, attendees can expect to be immersed in a truly enriching experience. This year’s line-up of speakers features prominent figures such as Brazilian DJ/producer ANNA, comedian and inclusivity champion William Boeva, audio alchemist Michael Krause, and internationally renowned Belgian rockstar Mauro
“I’ve come to the Love Tomorrow Conference because I’m looking for freelance work on the crossroads of biology, illustration, and social media.”
Pawlowski. Read on to find out if attending the Love Tomorrow Conference should be included in your trip to Tomorrowland next year!
Stories for hope & change
Among 2024’s most eye-catching keynote speakers is Dutch author and journalist Rutger Bregman. On a non-stop mission to create positive change, Rutger has inspired millions to see the world through a lens of hope and possibility with his New York Times bestseller ‘Humankind: A Hopeful History’. In it, he argues against the idea that humankind is essentially egoistic, and comes up with a positive outlook on the future of the human species, neatly fitting into the People of Tomorrow’s outlook on existence. It is his words that visitors to the conference continue to repeat after they walk out of the Atmosphere, the circus-like arena where you’d normally expect to bounce to 150 BPM techno. Just as intriguing a speaker is psychiatrist and psychotherapist Dirk de Wachter, whose lecture in the forested CORE area has everyone in attendance captivated as he speaks about the necessary adjustments in social behaviour to make the world a healthier place. Such hopeful stories of changes are exactly what the Love Tomorrow Conference is about. Will you visit too next year?
“I studied biology, so I’m naturally interested in most of the topics discussed here, and the values proclaimed are generally close to my own. I highly value taking care of the environment and living a healthy life. The seminars may not always be closely related at first sight, but quite often, things are not as far detached from each other as you may think. Technology often takes inspiration from nature. I’ve come to the Love Tomorrow Conference because I’m looking for freelance work on the crossroads of biology, illustration, and social media.
SEAN’S LOVE TOMORROW VISIT
Sean partied all weekend long during Tomorrowland 2024’s first weekend last week, before taking tours of Brussels and Antwerp. And now, he’s back for Love Tomorrow. “I love seeing this place in a different atmosphere. Last weekend I was dancing like crazy in this very same location. But this afternoon, I witnessed a lecture on how AI is changing the world. I love how in-depth this conference is, how it invites you to think about the future of humanity and the world.”
“I love how in-depth this conference is, how it invites you to think about the future of humanity and the world.”
SUSTAINABLE START-UP SHOWDOWN
The Rose Garden’s mythical dragon reigns over the presentations by representatives of 17 start-ups. They pitch their innovative ideas to the audience, who can vote for their favourite idea by scanning a QR code. This really is a place to get inspired, taking in the sheer energy of entrepreneurs who are putting themselves out there to make the world a better and above all greener place. One of the companies pitching its ideas is Croptic, whose engineers have found a way to detect weeds by using drones. Due to the data provided, farmers are able to vastly reduce the use of pesticides.
THE GREEN FUTURE OF RACING?
Proudly presenting their solar-powered racing car near the Freedom stage are the engineering students of the University of Leuven in Belgium. “Every year we build a brand-new model, which is always fuelled by the sun and the sun only,” says Quinten, who is visibly proud of the project he’s working on, as he poses in front of the Innoptus. It’s the car that garnered them the status of world champion last year, after a 4000 km race across South Africa against university teams from countries all over the world.
LOVE TOMORROW’S JOB FAIR
A spectacular highlight of the job fair – generally very well equipped for networking purposes – is the professional take on the concept of speed dating, where visitors are given the opportunity to speak to potential employers in one of the iconic Brussels Airlines Ferris Wheel gondolas. One of the companies conducting interviews is Aquafin, the company that filters all of the wastewater in the Belgian region of Flanders, so that it becomes suitable for use by its citizens again. The company even produces so-called Riolimo, a delicious drink made of sewage water. Min Huet, their HR manager, has spoken to candidates for jobs in the field of engineering, IT, and marketing. “It’s not just that, though,” says Huet. “We’ve also had lots of initial conversations with people who aren’t looking for a specific job yet, but are generally looking into the possibility of getting a career in the sustainability industry.”
OPEN YOUR SENSES TO THE ELIXIR OF LIFE
BEYEN SYRIA
Beyen immediately starts to smile as we spot her on the way to the Gathering.
“Tomorrowland gives you a special and magical feeling that you want to chase for the rest of your life. I would recommend everybody to chase that feeling forever, wherever you are. Because that’s the Elixir, if you ask me.”
“What is your Elixir of Life at Tomorrowland?”
At Tomorrowland, a vibrant mix of cultures and lifestyles comes together, creating lifelong memories. Tomorrowland is not just a festival; it’s a sensory journey that stays with you forever, lifting up body and mind. Tomorrowland, in other words, is where you can find the Elixir of Life. Encapsulating the essence of the festival, this fragrant mixture blends the energy, diversity, and spirit of unity that define Tomorrowland into a mythical cure for all ailments. But what are its ingredients? Not knowing the intricate secrets of the concoction ourselves, we put the question to your fellow People of Tomorrow. What is the foremost ingredient in their own Elixir of Life?
BRYNN CANADA
“I just need my friends by my side, good vibes, and glitters,” Brynn muses. “Oh! And I am a huge perfume addict. That’s my Elixir. I keep several fragrances at my tent, and I always have one with me so that I can spray all day. If you smell nice, you feel nice.”
ALEX
UNITED KINGDOM
Alex is dancing enthusiastically in the middle of one of DreamVille’s many roads, portable speaker in hand. “With music, you make friends. So music is an Elixir of Life. And Tomorrowland has the best music in the world.”
SARAH & MATTEO BELGIUM
“I only need my friends,” Matteo says. “I actually dislike camping, but when I wake up at DreamVille, open my tent, and see all the lovely, happy faces of my friends, I feel complete bliss. And now I want to go camp with them more often!”
ANDY INDIA
“Traveling is my Elixir of Life,” is Andy’s take. “I need nothing more. Tomorrowland was an absolute bucket list item for me, and I can finally check it off. I hope to meet a lot of new people from all over the world at Tomorrowland, so that I can go visit them later.”
ALINE & MARIANA BRAZIL
“We need very cold, cold, cold beer. Because back home, beer needs to be ice cold. We start the day with it and we end with it as well,” Aline and Mariana say with a laugh, even as their drinks are getting warm in the sun. Better drink that Elixir quick…
EVERTON & FABRIZIO IRELAND
“We are celebrating Fabrizio’s birthday at Tomorrowland. All we and our friends need is a drink and a party atmosphere for our Elixir, and that’s definitely all here! This place brings friends together, and the energy is amazing. It’s the perfect way to celebrate and make unforgettable memories for life.”
DELANEY HAWAII
“For me, there are three keywords in life that I always carry close to me, like an Elixir: positivity, freedom of expression, and community. And all three come together at Tomorrowland, which is why I feel fantastic and like myself here.”
FIND YOUR WAY
With very good timing, Vintage Culture is releasing a new remix crafted specifically for the Tomorrowland mainstage. His VIP Remix of ‘Find a Way’ – a fan favourite from the recent album ‘Promised Land’ – brings an anthemic, energetic treatment to his signature deep house style. After being teased in sets over the past few months, this track version is finally available to stream. Check it out on the Vintage Culture Summer Sessions playlist, only on Amazon Music. The Brazilian music wizard played his first set at Tomorrowland a few years ago, and not much later he kicked off his monthly radio show on One World Radio. Vintage Culture has become a prominent figure at Tomorrowland, captivating audiences with his unique vibes and energetic performances. His sets have consistently been a highlight of the festival, showcasing his ability to connect with the crowd and deliver unforgettable experiences.
PAY AS YOU GO
Bonzai may be a world-famous Belgian record label, but this weekend, you’ll also encounter bonsai, one of the swiftest Belgian payment applications around. This year, as you know, is Tomorrowland’s twentieth anniversary, which is why the bonsai team will have a delicious birthday treat for you in store when they run into you around the grounds.
SPRINKLE THE SPARKLE
Solo Vida, Tomorrowland’s very own sparkling wine, is made with the finest quality grapes and cared for with love, making it perfect for celebrating life and sharing moments of happiness and joy. Sounds like a delight for your senses, doesn’t it? The Solo Vida bar at Mesa Garden will amaze the People of Tomorrow, for sure, and you have a chance to win a Solo Vida bottle experience there! How? Very simple: take a sparkling photo with Solo Vida and share it on your Instagram, tag @solovida_official and enter the competition. The winners will be chosen on Sunday afternoon, so make sure you get your eyes on their Instagram!
THREE STRIPES SAVING YOUR DAY
Located right next to the Recovery Area gym at DreamVille, adidas will provide you with easy and free access to gear at their full-fledged sports apparel borrow station. Whether it is shoes you need, socks, a t-shirt, trousers or shorts, the wellknown brand with the three stripes has got you sorted. Also available in this super handy library for workout gear is the single most important piece of workout apparel for those with breasts: the sports bra. It turns out that over 90% of women are reported to be wearing the wrong size sports bra, and adidas believes that everybody in sport deserves to be supported.
TOMORROWLAND CARES A LOT
Tomorrowland cares about everyone: every visitor, employee, and artist should be able to feel safe, welcome, and comfortable. We Care a Lot is a team of dedicated people ensuring that this amazing festival is what it should be: a place where people care and stand up for each other. They send a strong message that they hope will resonate well with everyone: “do not leave your friends behind, and take care of yourself and your friends.
Sometimes wellbeing policies take a serious turn. The loss of life and serious health risks resulting from prohibited drug use are an alarming trend that affects not only Tomorrowland, but all of society. It is crucial to collectively strive for stricter enforcement of drug policies, focusing on education, prevention, and effective control measures.
The police are on your side
Peter Muyshondt is a chief police officer in the greater Antwerp region. He teams up with We Care a Lot at Tomorrowland, taking the lead in protecting the People of Tomorrow against the risks of drugs wherever possible. “Tomorrowland and DreamVille cover a huge area, so we know that we can’t control everything,” says Muyshondt. “Our tasks as We Care a Lot do include, however, informing international visitors to the festival about which substances are illegal, and letting them know that they’re not always buying what they think they’re buying. You may have been told something is MDMA, but it could be that you were given a substance that is way more dangerous.”
Being a cop, Muyshondt will always advise against taking drugs, but as a human being, the officer – who lost his own brother as a result of substance abuse – recognises the importance of providing guidance. Some people do decide to intoxicate themselves, after all. “We may not like it, but ignoring the fact that people take drugs doesn’t make sense. If you insist on taking them, then make sure to take small quantities – such as a quarter of a pill – to start with. And importantly, always ensure that sober friends are never far away. You need to surround yourself with people who will look after you – who can make sure that you drink enough but not too much water, for example.” In the end, it turns out, care is key – both for yourself as well as the people around you.
The music of LIFE is to be heard all across the Holy Grounds this weekend. In Focus on the Music, you can find all there is to know about it, from line-ups to interviews to special features. Here’s a selection of today’s hosting partners to start with!
RAMPAGE X UKF THE ROSE GARDEN
Tomorrowland wouldn’t be the same without Rampage, the organisation behind the Low Countries’ largest drum & bass and dubstep festival. This year, they are teaming up with British bass label UKF for the occasion. No matter if you’re a breaks fan already, or new to these heavy sounds, we highly recommend drenching yourself in this fantastic spectacle for an hour or two – you’ll start understanding what people mean when they say that the bass music scene feels like one big family. There is lots to get excited about on the line-up, with Macky Gee playing a mental set, Delta Heavy doing a full hour of nonstop rollers and much more.
DRUMCODE ATMOSPHERE
Established in 1996 and managed by Adam Beyer, Drumcode Records initially specialised in releasing techno exclusively from Sweden. These days are long gone, however, and the label is now more versatile geographically as well as musically speaking. They’ve turned into a platform for artists from all around the world, who produce music across the entire electronic spectrum. Look forward to Palestinian artist Sama’ Abdulhadi’s big room techno sound, the cinematic vibes of Chris Avantgarde, Bart Skils’ driving rhythms and, of course, the everimmersive performances of the imprint’s head honcho, Adam Beyer.
TOMORROWLAND MUSIC THE LIBRARY
Tomorrowland’s very own imprint is much-loved for providing a home for artists of all different levels in electronic music, a mission that is strongly felt when you listen to the Tomorrowland 2024: Life release, which is also available on vinyl. Like the record, today’s line-up at the Library feels like a sneak peek into the future. Head to the stage for an overview of what’s hot right now, including sets by melody whizzkids Lucas & Steve, catchy club head Felix Jaehn, progressive house mainstay Topic, and Alok, one of Brazil’s greatest. What are you waiting for?
FOCUS ON FRIDAY MAGICAL
DAYBREAK SESSIONS
ANDOT B2B MAZ
MAINSTAGE | 12:00
With a highly anticipated b2b, the Daybreak Session by Antdot and Maz brings together two of Brazil’s finest. Following a historic performance on the CORE stage at Tomorrowland Brasil, the Dawn Patrol label partners have been hauled in as two of today’s most influential producers. Antdot emphasizes the importance of the warm-up in any event. “In fact, it is a very big responsibility to open and deliver a good vibe for the next artists. As I play a lot of original music, I generally think about the structure of the set in line with the time I’m going to play, considering the artists who play after me,” he says about crafting a setlist for the Daybreak Session.
Today, Antdot is partnering up again with Maz, his co-founder at Dawn Patrol – a match made in heaven. Maz, emerging from the vibrant cultural scene of Brazil, was influenced by his parents’ careers in fashion and cinema, which nurtured his intrinsic love for art. Following these early artistic influences, it was a transformative experience at the infamous Universo Paralello festival that truly shaped his musical journey. Together, Antdot and Maz continue to make waves in the electronic music scene, bringing their unique blend of sounds to some of the most prestigious stages in the world. Their back-to-back Daybreak Session at Tomorrowland promises to be another unforgettable chapter in their impressive careers. With this performance they will try to one-up their highly acclaimed set from Tomorrowland Brasil, which became the most-watched set on the Tomorrowland Brasil channel last year, so make sure to be there early.
MAINSTAGE
LIFE
Closing Ceremony 00:45 - 01:00
Hardwell 23:45 - 00:45
Swedish House Mafia 22:45 - 23:45
Lost Frequencies 21:40 - 22:40
Solomun 20:40 - 21:40
Kevin de Vries 19:35 - 20:35 B Jones 18:35 - 19:35 Bassjackers 17:35 - 18:35 Opening Ceremony 17:30 - 17:35
Sam Divine 17:00 - 19:00 Might Delete Later 16:00 - 17:00 Samm 14:00 - 16:00
THE ROSE GARDEN
RAMPAGE X UKF
Camo & Krooked 23:00 - 00:00
Macky Gee 22:00 - 23:00 Delta Heavy 21:00 -22:00
Metrik b2b Grafix 20:00 - 21:00
Murdock 19:00 - 20:00
Sippy 18:00 - 19:00
A Little Sound 17:00 - 18:00
Hamdi 16:00 - 17:00
Mollie Collins 15:00 - 16:00
Basstripper b2b AC13 14:00 - 15:00
Maze b2b Primate 13:00 - 14:00
Hosted by: MC Mota
MESA GARDEN
Younes 20:30 - 22:00
Andrei Stan 18:00 - 20:30
Slatin 15:30 - 18:00
Hadassa & Ester 13:00 - 15:30
ELIXIR
FLAVÃSOUL
DJ Creator 00:00 - 01:00
Unregular 23:00 - 00:00
Hyalyte 22:00 - 23:00
Flavour Drop 21:00 - 22:00
Eva De Roo & Double D 20:00 - 21:00
Tola OG 19:00 - 20:00
Flo Windey & Skyve 18:00 - 19:00
FlavãSoul Soundsystem 16:00 - 18:00
DJ Chanelle 14:30 - 16:00
Tous Les Deux 13:00 - 14:30
Hosted by: MC Rim
CAGE
FOOTWORXX
Detest 22:00 - 23:00
MBK 21:00 - 22:00
Neko 20:00 - 21:00
Yoshiko 19:00 - 20:00
DRS b2b Sandy Warez 17:30 - 19:00
Partyraiser 16:30 - 17:30
Vernex 15:30 - 16:30
DJ Furax 14:30 - 15:30
Revedge b2b The Mind Destiny 13:15 - 14:30
Revenja b2b Extreme Noize 12:00 - 13:15
CORE
Partiboi69
RAVE CAVE
WINTERCLUBBING
Winterclubbing All Stars 23:00 - 00:00
Double-U 22:00 - 23:00
Dimitri Wouters 21:00 - 22:00
5napback 20:00 - 21:00
PartyShakerz 19:00 - 20:00
DJ F.R.A.N.K 18:00 - 19:00
DJ Kat 17:00 - 18:00
DJ Luk 16:00 - 17:00
Nils van Zandt 15:00 - 16:00
Bram Delux 14:00 - 15:00
Mr. Rewind 13:00 - 14:00
PLANAXIS
Dennis Cruz b2b Seth Troxler 22:00 - 00:00
Patrick Topping 20:30 - 22:00
Chris Stussy 19:00 - 20:30
Arielle Free 17:30 - 19:00
Sona 16:00 - 17:30
Karyendasoul 14:00 - 16:00
Mosoo 12:00 - 14:00
MELODIA BY CORONA
TERRA SOLIS
Adam Sellouk 22:30 - 00:00
Avangart Tabldot 19:30 - 22:30
Sasson b2b Rivo 18:00 - 19:30
ARKADYAN 16:30 - 18:00
Luna & Lenthe 15:00 - 16:30
Quilliam 13:30 - 15:00
JUSTANOTHERDJ 12:00 - 13:30
RISE BY COKE STUDIO
CAFEINA
Disco Dasco 23:00 - 00:00
Christophe b2b Seelen 22:00 - 23:00
Roma 21:00 - 22:00
Pat Krimson 20:00 - 21:00
Semmer b2b Mr. Rewind 19:00 - 20:00
ZT Music 18:00 - 19:00
Mona Lee b2b WLC 17:00 - 18:00
Kaudron 16:00 - 17:00
Eddie Deville 15:00 - 16:00
Lucca van Damme 14:00 - 15:00
Kay b2b Jul-E 12:30 - 14:00
ATMOSPHERE
DRUMCODE
Adam Beyer 23:00 - 00:55
HI-LO 21:00 - 23:00
Sama’ Abdulhadi 19:00 - 21:00
Bart Skils 17:30 - 19:00
Chris Avantgarde 16:00 - 17:30
Olympe 14:00 - 16:00
LAAT 12:00 - 14:00
HOUSE OF FORTUNE BY JBL
Tigerlily 21:00 - 22:00
Matisse & Sadko 20:00 - 21:00
Jengi 19:00 - 20:00
Mr. Belt & Wezol 18:00 - 19:00
StadiumX 17:00 - 18:00
Jose de Mara 16:00 - 17:00
Idle Days 15:30 - 16:00
Toska 15:00 - 15:30
Eole 14:30 - 15:00
Himanshu Kalwani 14:00 - 14:30
Bardy b2b OCSAV 13:00 - 14:00
CRYSTAL GARDEN
Adriatique
22:30 - 00:30
Elderbrook (DJ Set) 21:00 - 22:30
Konstantin Sibold 19:30 - 21:00
Ida Engberg
23:30 - 01:00
Marlon Hoffstadt 21:30 - 23:30
DJ HEARTSTRING 19:30 - 21:30
DJ Fuckoff 18:00 - 19:30
Perel 16:00 - 18:00
EMILIJA 14:00 - 16:00
Lilihell 12:00 - 14:00
18:00 - 19:30
Mees Salomé 16:30 - 18:00
Ashibah 15:00 - 16:30
Axel Haube 13:30 - 15:00
Hollt 12:00 - 13:30
MOOSEBAR
Tom Cosyns
20:00 - 00:00
Barry Fest 19:00 - 20:00
Jeroen Visser 16:00 - 19:00
Prosit 12:00 - 16:00
ucas & Steve L
Dutch duo Lucas & Steve – originally known for their progressive house hits – have slowly but surely moved towards a more clubby, groovy sound with tracks such as ‘Anywhere With You’ and ‘Where Have You Gone’. That said, the two producers from Maastricht are so hooked on melodies that they will never fully abandon the catchy elements of their early sound. We spoke to Lucas about their early beginnings, putting yourself in the shoes of the raver when you produce, and the biological mechanics behind dance floor euphoria.
You guys grew up in the southern Dutch city of Maastricht. Tell us something about the club scene there. Did you find a lot of musical inspiration in your hometown?
Lucas: “Steve and I both started playing musical instruments, like the drums and the piano, at a very young age. Then when we got a bit older, at 10 or 11, our love for electronic music started. For me personally, hearing Tiësto’s album ‘Just Be’ was really influential. In the Netherlands, trance and other styles of electronic music are everywhere, including on the radio, so you didn’t have to go out of your way to hear it. Steve and I started linking up Discmans in high school, looking for ways to mix our favourite tunes, even if we couldn’t control the BPMs or anything. There are quite a few clubs in Maastricht where we would play our music, including Complex, which is a huge venue. We returned there last NYE. It was really fun to be back there after all those years.”
“People will be watching the Tomorrowland livestream for years to come, so your preparations have to be next level.”
You’ll be playing the Library today. What can people expect?
“We will play at least two records that will remind people of the good old Lucas & Steve progressive sounds, but it’s 2024 now, so we will also present new stuff that reflects the current techniques in sound design. Lately, we’ve created lots of groovy stuff that’s not techno but does resemble some of
the genre’s key elements. Of course, we’ll also play some brand new mash-ups.”
What is it like to play for the People of Tomorrow? Do you prepare for this set differently compared to other shows?
“Yes, definitely. With Tomorrowland, you know that it’s not just the crowd in front of you that you’re playing for; you’re playing for people watching the recording for years to come, so your preparations are next level. You want to show where you’re going over the next months or even years to come. Playing this particular stage, the Library, is amazing: people go here because they’re really into the music, they’ve been looking forward to that sneak peek into the future.”
So what is it that you’re trying to give the crowd – what’s the most important thing about your sound?
“We are always looking to convey a certain feeling through our music. The common denominator is that it will make people feel good. It should release dopamine and serotonin in the brains of the audience.”
It sounds like you know what you’re talking about there. Do you have a background in the science of happiness?
“I do, actually! I hold a bachelor’s in psychology. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, a substance in your brain that gives you energy and confidence. Serotonin is also naturally produced, it makes you feel good. Dancing will increase your dopamine release and serotonin levels and then there is also
18:00 - 19:00
the music part: hearing uplifting melodies does the same thing. Whenever you’re raving you get the best of these two things. It is really good for your mental as well as your physical health.”
What are the elements you love to hear in music, positioning yourself in the mind of a raver?
“For me, melodies are important. I close my eyes in the studio, imagining how the music would come across. Then you start adjusting things. A melody may not be uplifting enough, for example. The element of surprise is also very important. How does a track develop towards a drop? Getting surprised by sounds is the best feeling ever, you know?”
Speaking of raves, you’re going to play the world’s biggest one in a few hours. Have you been watching last weekend’s sets? What are the developments in music you’re most excited about?
“A few years ago there was a big rise in the popularity of tech house, and techno followed suit, it is literally everywhere. But watching some of last week’s sets, I noticed the return of more melodic stuff, a new kind of progressive house if you will. There seems to be a huge demand for that. Maybe that’s exactly because it has been a little less present in recent years. I heard some of the really big names play it, including Alesso. If you provide the thing that people long for, they go really crazy. That said, the groovy club stuff is also still doing really well. It’s hard to put your finger on these developments, they’re difficult to explain.”
SWEDISH HOUSE MAFIA
MAINSTAGE | 22:45 - 23:45
One of the most anticipated Tomorrowland shows in 2024, this one by Swedish House Mafia will no doubt be talked about for many years to come. Widely credited for a big share in the global rise of EDM as we now know it, the trio consisting of Sebastian Ingrosso, Axwell, and Steve Angello, have also inspired many of electronic music’s biggest stars including Avicii, Alesso, and Martin Garrix. Early works by this supergroup include collaborations with Laidback Luke – now a regular One World Radio presenter – such as the hectic club banger ‘Get Dumb’ and ‘Leave the World Behind’, which feels like a real bridge to the Mafia’s catchier sound of the years to come. Over the course of the 2010s, the three crossed over into the world of pop, working with global chart-topping artists such as Pharell Williams and Tinie Tempah. Fast-forward to their most successful year, 2012: this is when they released ‘Don’t You Worry Child’ (featuring vocals by John Martin), and introduced a whole new generation of ravers to the festival scene and that special kind of unity purely caused by sound. The group’s initial farewell tour dates from September that same year, and the individual members have had their own careers since; we’ve seen all of them –including former member Eric Prydz – perform at this very festival, and Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso will even play a b2b set at Tomorrowland this year. However, even if the band got back together, seeing a complete Swedish House Mafia show remains something unique and very rare. It is, in fact, for the very first time since 2012 – Tomorrowland’s own breakthrough year as well as SHM’s – that they will collectively perform in Boom. Don’t make yourself regret not witnessing this milestone in music, is all we have left to say!
CAGE | 19:00 - 20:00
Born and raised in a tiny Italian village “where nothing ever happens,” Yoshiko decided to go and look for the action on her own after she first encountered a video of a hardstyle event in the Netherlands. And so she travelled north, on a mission to experience the banging sound of her dreams in real life. She made no less than 27 trips back and forth until she felt that permanently moving to Amsterdam made more sense. Once there, she became interested in uptempo, the sound that now dominates her own productions and DJ sets. “I seriously think everyone will end up loving this music,” she once raved about her incredibly fast musical style of choice.
MAINSTAGE | 23:45 - 00:45
He may be one of EDM’s biggest ever stars, but Hardwell is also a musical chameleon. Not only did he start out as a hiphop DJ, he also ventured into genres like hardstyle and UK Garage (with Craig David) – and this is long after he became a superstar. Let’s not forget, furthermore, that Hardwell’s comeback show at Tomorrowland’s Mainstage back in 2022 was a monumental outburst of driving techno. Never looking back, the Dutch producer has recently been moving towards more melodic performances. Mind you, his much-loved ultra-deep and thumping beats are never far away!
THE LIBRARY | 21:00 – 22:00
Born to psytrance stars Swarup and Ekanta, Alok grew up on a diet of beats and basslines only to become one of Brazil’s major electronic music stars himself. His sound, sometimes defined as Brazilian Bass, resonates with more and more music fans in his home country, where the popularity of raving is on the rise. Throughout his career, Alok has worked with artists such as Dimi & Mike, KSHMR, Bebe Rexha, The Chainsmokers, Steve Aoki, and Ellie Goulding. Alok is a strong believer in the positive power that people generate when they party together: “The sum of our vibrational states, thoughts, and feelings forms a field where we all connect and share this web of energy that radiates out to the rest of the world.”
HARDWELL
YOSHIKO
MEMORIES OF TOMORROW
Spanning no less than twenty years, Tomorrowland has piled up deep-rooted memories that have been carved into our collective psyche. In Memories of Tomorrow we look back at the experiences we shared together, as one can only prepare for the future by understanding the past. After twenty years of uniting the world, it’s time to take a breath, reminisce, and remember…
A MILESTONE MOMENT
Remember, that one time in 2013, when Armin van Buuren had a special announcement to make during his Mainstage set? As the rain was falling heavily onto the People of Tomorrow during the second day of the festival, Armin stepped up to his well-trusted place behind the decks with a huge smile, brimming with emotion. As he rose up underneath the volcano of the Arising of Life stage, he took the microphone and had some exciting news to share. “Good evening Tomorrowland, how are you guys doing? I want to make a special announcement: I just came straight from the hospital and I want the world to welcome… My wife just gave birth to a son. So I’d like to dedicate my whole set to my new son.” It became a milestone moment in the history of Tomorrowland, an affirmation of the robust bond between Armin and the People of Tomorrow which has remained unbroken since. And with tears of the purest joy in his eyes, Armin’s closing set on that rainy Saturday in 2013 became a celebration of new life, giving a deeply felt meaning to the story of the Arising of Life. As far as birthday parties go, this grandiose moment has yet to be surpassed.
SOLOMUN
MAINSTAGE | 20:40 - 21:40
Hyperproductive Bosnian-German DJ/producer Solomun has gradually become a cult superstar over the past decade and a half. Much-loved for a sound that could be described as house music with deep, ultra-funky basslines, euphoric melodies, and emotionally charged vocals, Solomun is known to lock his dancers into an inescapable groove. Add to that his work with an incredibly diverse range of artists on an equally versatile selection of labels, and it follows that it’s hard not to love this one-of-a-kind artist; any type of dancer will be triggered by at least one element in his music. Even if Solomun himself works the decks as still as a sphynx, standing still to his sets is impossible.
MARLON HOFFSTADT
CORE | 21:30 - 23:30
Marlon Hoffstadt, nicknamed DJ Daddy Trance by his fans, has become incredibly prolific over the course of just a few years. From Awakenings to Ibiza’s Ushuaïa and from Bassiani in Georgia to the leafy valley of CORE here at Tomorrowland, Marlon applies his versatile and dynamic approach to DJ’ing wherever he goes, mixing up house, trance, techno, and even eurohouse – anything goes as long as the tracks come with a tremendous energy level. This truly is the spirit that raving first blew up with in the ‘90s, so look forward to a blinder of a set by one of dance music’s most promising prodigies. Enjoy the moment and immerse yourself in the sounds of ‘daddy’ Marlon!
“THE HARMONIOUS VOICE OF NATURE: FROM THE SOUL TO THE COSMIC SYMPHONY”
SETH TROXLER
PLANAXIS | 22:00 - 00:00
A restaurant owner as well as a DJ, American-born, Germanybased Seth Troxler descends from a family of cowboys and baptist preachers. The widely acclaimed selector debuted at Berlin’s Panorama Bar at the tender age of 18, an experience that is likely to have triggered his move to the German capital. Influenced by producers such as Richie Hawtin and Moodymann, Troxler draws upon the sonic heritage of not only America’s Midwest but also the United Kingdom and Northern Europe. Having famously played at the closing party of Amsterdam’s legendary Trouw club, Troxler is set to close another impressive venue tonight: Tomorrowland’s Planaxis, not alone but alongside Dennis Cruz, Madrid’s uncrowned king of the underground.
ATMOSPHERE | 16:00 -17:30
German-born and London-based DJ and producer Chris Avantgarde is an incredible musical force to be reckoned with. His compositions explore the realm between melodic techno, electronica, and progressive house, but no matter the genre that he ventures into, he always manages to catapult listeners into a new universe. In fact, Chris’ talent and skill in the studio are so sought-after that even Netflix, Microsoft XBOX, and HBO regularly work together with him. His collaborations with Anyma in 2022 and 2023 were another breathtaking display of why industry experts can’t get enough of this guy. Catch this musical genius’ creations in an immersive experience at the Freedom stage.
