Tomorrowland Today 2026 | Sunday

UNTIL THE FINAL BEAT DROPS

Rise up, dust off your kicks, clear your pipes and prick up your ears, for today is the day that you will become whole. The final day of the festival is when you will fully complete your transformation from the People of Tomorrow into the official, undisputed alumni of 2026, the legends of this year’s edition. Taking you by the hand, making an assault on your feet and shaking up your music tastes today are Calvin Harris, John Summit and Kevin de Vries at the Mainstage. Laying the foundation for your fancy final footwork around the Holy Grounds are Oscar & The Wolf, DJ Gigola and DJ Tennis b2b Vintage Culture at Crystal Garden, the Smash The House family at The Great Library and Exhale at Core, featuring Amelie Lens, Anetha and Blondex. If you haven’t already done so, make sure to find some musical treasures in the Rave Cave or have a bit of a yodel in the Moose Bar. Today is your last chance to feel all of the musical feelings!

Calling all fans: we have dance and pop music royalty gracing the Holy Grounds with his presence today as none other than superstar Calvin Harris will be making his long-awaited, much-anticipated debut at the Tomorrowland Mainstage tonight at 22:50.

22:30 - 23:55

It has happened, friends. You have completed the cycle – within yourself, and with each other. You have been moved by the brightest Wonder around the Holy Grounds, you’ve let go of the fiercest Anger. You pilgrimaged through the Province of Sadness, enduring difficult emotions before going back into the fray once more. Desire for more kept you going for hours, while Love was shared all around, and kept you connected to your friends. Finally, in a lasting surge of Joy, you brought all of the other emotions together, and now, you carry the balance within you. Inside, you are at peace with your passions; your inner voice rings forth from a place of stillness and repose. All of you, together, can combine that gentle new awareness into a force promoting unity throughout the world. Today, let’s make that new force count, friends. Let’s come together and transform this weekend into the dawn of a new era; a time of unprecedented unity, within ourselves and amongst each other. Let’s once more dance under the Mainstage lights, embrace to the sound of our favourite music, and move as one giant, joyful whole. Together, we can transform everything we touch, nurture this balance, and spread it all around the globe. Together, we are united – forever.

SADNESS

There’s nothing worse than this, and it’s hard to even lift up a finger, much less get out of bed. Only one day of Tomorrowland left! Before you know it, all of those beautiful faces, all of the good times, will be gone, in the past. The good times shared with your friends replaced by regular life; the feeling of being completely yourself hidden behind a façade of normality; and the music stopped in favour of blah blah blah. What a depressing thought… It’s probably best to give in to the pressure behind your eyes and the tightness in your throat, to welcome the impulse to curl up and cry. Didn’t you also miss some of your favourite artists yesterday? And get to spend less quality time with your friends than you would have liked to? And then think of the ones back home who you couldn’t even bring! Really – the world is cruel, and it’s such a sad place for you to be right now. Let the tears out…

JOY

It begins with a smile; then a hop, a skip and a jump. Feel the warmth spread through your body, through your whole being, as you look forward to another magical day in the best place in the world. Another first look at the Mainstage from the top of the hill! Another hug with your best Tomorrowland friend, feeling their body gently connect with yours, and lovingly relax! Another round making angry, silly faces in the Atmosphere, and grinding out odd, sexy moves at the Elixir peninsula! Then after that: the afterglow, the memories, the connections. Think of the smiles. Think of the good times you’ll have with the new friends you’ve made, and the legendary moments you’ll remember. Life truly is great, and it’s become even better thanks to this wonderful edition of Tomorrowland, even if some moments were difficult enough. Let’s make this day the best one yet!

TOMORROWLAND TODAY

HIGHLIGHTS

4 - 6

DREAMVILLE

City of a thousand dreams

7, 15 & 21

DAILY WISDOM

All there is to know today

BE SAFE, BE RESPONSIBLE

In accordance with Belgian law, a strict zero-tolerance policy towards illegal drugs is in place at Tomorrowland. Anyone caught with illegal substances will be removed from the festival grounds. Be responsible: use the amnesty bins provided at the entrance and party safely!

Ready here whenever, wanting this forever Always been a warrior

From back when I remember, now we stand together

8 - 9

DRESS TO EXPRESS

Chase & Status - Fire In Your Eyes

The best looks of the Holy Grounds

18 - 19

THIJS MELIEFSTE

Global Executive Head Chef of Tomorrowland

22 - 23

LOST IN THAISLATION

Fahbeer’s wonderful creations

25 - 31

FOCUS ON THE MUSIC

Charlotte de Witte, John Summit, the timetable and artist bios

A NOTE FROM THE DESK

A paper like this never appears from just one pair of hands, even if it sometimes lands in yours before the morning espresso has even kicked in. A massive thank you to the writers, designers, photographers, editors, producers and early risers who help Tomorrowland Today find its way across the grounds each day!

dreamville

rise & shine

A cooler morning has settled over DreamVille after two days of summer heat, bringing a welcome change of pace. While some residents are only just rubbing the sleep out of their eyes, others are already sharing breakfast, raising a glass of champagne, or enjoying their morning run. Around here, you never quite know what the day will have in store for you. But however it might begin, every morning carries the same quiet excitement: another full day of memories waiting to be made at Tomorrowland. This is how DreamVille got ready for a second day at the Holy Grounds!

moving at a

9:00 YOGA NIDRA

9:45 KUNDALINI YOGA

10:30 LES MILLS PILATES

11:15 YIN YOGA

12:00 HATHA YOGA

12:45 BODYBALANCE

winning frequencies

9:30 BODYSTEP

10:00 LES MILLS DANCE

10:30 BODYCOMBAT

11:00 BODYATTACK

11:30 BODYPUMP

12:00 LES MILLS GRIT

12:30 LES MILLS DANCE 13:00 BODYATTACK

13:30 BODYPUMP

at

Two Belgian giants teamed up for tennis doubles against DreamVille guests today. Tennis ace Zizou Bergs, ranked world no. 35, paired with Lost Frequencies’ Felix – a recreational player juggling court time with constant touring. “I’m not sure how this will go,” he laughs when asked about the odds. The court’s cheering audience fuels what comes next for him: hosting The Great Library stage, where fanbase and Frequencies align for real.

the day

Still wrapped in her bathrobe after a morning shower, Tanvi from India couldn’t wait to call home. “I told my dad I’m at Tomorrowland and that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everything here is just overwhelming - in the best way possible.”

twister twinning

When you’re twinning as colourfully as this bunch from Denmark, what else to do than play a giant Twister game? “It’s great stretching aerobics to get ready for the madness today,” Mats shares. “It will get us ready for Average Rob, the mad Belgian we discovered here last year – and MORTEN, representing Denmark on the line-up.” There’s room for more gymnasts: the Twister rematch is on Sunday 11:00 at the Gathering stage.

Some mornings start a little slower. Evi

wearing yesterday’s outfit and had to remove last

Friday

even nemo gets found here

You might lose more than your way in DreamVille. The Lost & Found desk near the main gate keeps safe whatever people bring in: glasses, phones and passports top the list, but there’s more. One English guest got his phone back complete with travel documents. “His face said it all – and we want to make more people happy,” the team shares. Yes, there’s even a Nemo costume waiting for its owner. Check found items online via iLost or stop by the desk first – most treasures go home same-day.

Cemec and Peter from Poland know that sharing is caring. On their way back with beers for the whole group, they made sure to grab a cup of fresh fruit too. Balance, after all, is everything.

FORTUNE FAVOURS THE BRAVE

The House of Fortune by JBL is where imagination and music converge in a magical little universe. Here, surprises unite, energise, and connect people through music, fostering meaningful connections and promising futures. The House of Fortune stage features upcoming artists, such as talents from the JBL Music Academy, alongside well-known artists who have already learned to shine brightly, heralding endless possibilities for tomorrow’s stars to dazzle and inspire.

MAILING HOME

Do you still remember the joy of receiving a postcard? Or is it a practice that only vaguely rings a bell? It doesn’t really matter, because all People of Tomorrow are entitled to send one postcard of choice to a friend or loved one. You can choose between a variety of cards and, don’t worry, there’s no need to bring a stamp. All is taken care of by the post office’s immaculately dressed personnel. Find them near the Cage!

WAY ABOVE AVERAGE

No one saw the hype around Omdat het Kan & Average Rob coming, yesterday between 16:00 and 17:00 at the Mainstage. No one? Well, the Belgians did of course, as these two countryside rascals are a household name in Flanders and its immediate surroundings. Omdat Het Kan: “We are ambassadors of Belgian culture. Especially Rob, with his passion for coffee cookies, fries, and beer. You know what the crazy thing is? Even Belgians who don’t like our music joined in to party hard with us. Quite unique, eh?”

TEACHING DREAMS, LIVING DREAMS

DJ Roop knows that every great journey begins with a first beat. In Kolkata, India, he teaches at the Tomorrowland Foundation’s Music & Arts School, founded together with Ek Tara, where more than 1,500 underprivileged girls discover the power of music, dance and art. “The purpose of Ek Tara is to give children who are less privileged a starting point, and guide them on their first steps,” he says. “The art to being a good DJ is to keep on learning and picking up new stuff from all over.” After a new classroom was opened recently, the school found fresh momentum. “We’re showing them a dream of Tomorrowland and are trying hard to fulfill it. That thought itself gives inspiration.” This weekend, DJ Roop returned to Tomorrowland for the second time, performing on the Old Spice Boat yesterday. “I’m lucky to be here again. It has always been my dream to play here, and I’m still dreaming of playing the Mainstage one day.” For his students, that dream already feels a little closer.

LIVE ON AIR

One World Radio is a community-enhancing institution unlike any other and they’re taking their task quite literally: everyone is welcome to join the studio shenanigans at any time. As it happens, Agents of Time are just waiting to be interviewed by the ever-energetic Adam K when we pop by. When they come on the broadcast, the twenty-five or so People of Tomorrow in the room make them feel welcome with a loud cheer. They see their love immediately returned when big smiles appear on Andrea and Luigi’s faces. “Will you be premiering new tracks during your set on the Great Library stage?” Adam wants to know. “I know it’s still in the far future, but what are your thoughts on performing at Tomorrowland Thailand?” It’s just a quick interview, but the fans attending enjoy it thoroughly. Where else would you get the chance to witness your favourite artists being interviewed from up close? A visit to the One World Radio studio, located next to the entrance of the Cage, comes hotly recommended for anyone who loves music, that much is clear.

DRESS TO EXPRESS

A fashion round-up from the Holy Grounds

Outfits are more than just clothes: they’re a reflection of personality. At Tomorrowland, that couldn’t be more true. Every corner of the Holy Grounds is filled with People of Tomorrow embracing their own unique style, from bold statement pieces and perfectly coordinated looks to the smallest details that make an outfit their own. Walk with us on a stroll across the grounds to find the best-dressed People of Tomorrowland – those whose style turns heads and leaves others wondering how to balance a fit so well – and who knows, you might find some inspiration for what to wear yourself on this final day!

JULIE

Julie from the USA dressed with one thing in mind: freedom to dance. “I went for a fun outfit that moves when I move,” she told us. Knowing that it can get warm while dancing her heart out, she chose a breathable all-black look that felt just right for the day. A black Tomorrowland bandana tied around her waist completes the outfit. She looks absolutely stunning, and could probably pull off any look under the sun!

Madelyn

Australia

“I wanted to keep my outfit comfortable for the day,” says Madelyn out of Sydney. “I actually lost some weight while travelling, so some of the clothes I’d packed didn’t fit the way they used to.” Knowing her outfit would be fairly simple, she added small golden details to her hair to give it a little extra character. Topping it all off with the Consciencia Cap, she effortlessly embraced this year’s Tomorrowland theme while proving that it can be the little details that make the biggest impact.

Juyoung

Australia

Juyoung from Australia and his friends decided on a pastel-colour theme for the weekend, making sure their outfits were perfectly matched. “We came up with the idea to wear pastel colours together,” he explains. The soft shades suit Juyoung perfectly, complementing his complexion and giving his look a fresh, effortless feel. Finished with the pink Tomorrowland bandana, the outfit proves that a subtle accessory can make all the difference.

LINDA

Portugal

Ruben’s cool and effortless look immediately catches the attention, no matter where he goes. “When I go to a festival I want to be noticed, but in a subtle way – I want to feel confident in my own skin,” he says. “I associate raves with black outfits and it’s a subtle colour for me.” The Slogan Belt Bag adds the perfect pop of colour to his all-black attire. We love it!

For Linda, a great festival outfit always starts with a cool pair of boots. “I love combining a tougher look with a skort or an oversized shirt,” she said. She com pleted her outfit with this year’s Tomorrowland Slogan Baseball Shirt and the Slogan Phone Bag she picked up at last year’s edition. For Linda, comfort al ways comes first. “I want to be able to dance all day without having to worry if something isn’t sitting the way it should,” she emphasises.

Anna GET YOUR OWN LOOK SORTED!

Anna from Italy has brought a touch of Ibiza to Tomorrowland. “My outfit is inspired by the island – that’s where I bought the hat,” she says. “It’s a mix of Ibiza vibes and Tomorrowland.”

Staying at the Plaza Hotel, she had her hair and makeup done to match her look to perfection. Finalised with a black bandana that complements her headwear, the outfit visualizes a playful blend of cowgirl style and laidback Ibiza flair.

Think your festival outfit deserves the spotlight? If we didn’t catch you on the Holy Grounds, here’s your chance. Send us your favourite photo of your Tomorrowland look and tell us the story behind it for a chance to win the brand-new Butterfly Hand Fan from the Tomorrowland Collection. It’s stylish, practical, and always ready to bring a refreshing breeze after an energetic session in front of the stages. Email your photo and story to today@tomorrowland.com.

THE

Somewhere on Earth, hidden beyond the reach of ordinary eyes, lies a place where every story ever imagined is recorded and kept. Welcome to the Great Library of Tomorrow, the enchanted heart of the Tomorrowland universe. Within its endless shelves rests the legendary Book of Wisdom, watched over by the ten Sages, guardians of the values that shape every realm: Joy, Integrity, Strength, Truth, Knowledge, Love, Creativity, Loyalty, Hope and Harmony. Each Sage is accompanied by a living Orb, a mystical companion born from the Book of Wisdom itself. Far more than a source of power, every Orb shares an unbreakable bond with its chosen guardian, offering guidance through the countless worlds beyond the library’s hidden portal.

Curious to discover what truly lies behind the themes of Tomorrowland? The Tomorrowland theme story books invite you to step through that portal and explore magical realms where fantasy, adventure and emotion become beautifully intertwined. The books from the Book of Wisdom trilogy tell the tale of the Great Library itself. Find info about all of the books at stories.tomorrowland.com, and discover all of the available languages (stay tuned if you speak Spanish!) and await the hotly anticipated release of the third part of the trilogy at thegreatlibraryoftomorrow.com.

Dear Reader of Tomorrow,

THE

GREAT LIBRARY OF TOMORROW

A TALE FOR EVERY READER

I am a dancer and I am a dreamer. There is another thing that I clearly am, and I sometimes feel alone in this: I am a reader of fantasy fiction. You, dear reader, will know that Tomorrowland’s various worlds of magic come together through The Great Library of Tomorrow. A portal in there connects the world of the theme of Consciencia, the worlds of Adscendo, Silvyra, and Orbyz, and many others like them. This much I knew, too. What I didn’t know is that there are actual ways inside the Great Library, through which you can then enter these realms. One of the places I’m talking about only covers a few square metres, but it holds a very special place in my heart. Please listen carefully as I tell you this story, as my heart would shatter if you didn’t. This, dear reader, is what happened to me today.

I typically spend a lot of time dancing and reconnecting with my friends during my annual visits to Tomorrowland, but yesterday’s early afternoon, I decided to diverge from my routine. As I strolled the paths of the Holy Grounds, something very unusual caught my eye: a little bookshop so old-fashioned, that it seemed to belong to the time when my grandmother was still but a child. And yet, the shopfront looked strangely familiar. It said, in dreamy white letters, ‘La Luna’. The moon! I was, in fact, over the moon when I took a closer look through the shop window, as I noticed an old librarian who was busy writing, surrounded by his beloved books.

Now, if you love reading like I do, you should pay close attention to what I’m about to say, as you may use this knowledge to ignite a fictional adventure of your own. My initial excitement was soon tempered when I saw the sign on the door. It said: “Keep Out. On account of ongoing Great Library business.” But as I receded from my position centimetres away from the window, the door suddenly opened, and the librarian invited me to enter his store. Promptly, he told me it is in fact the smallest bookshop in the world!

The librarian had a lot to say, but he didn’t seem to know where to start. He began to speak hesitantly, very slowly. I urged him to continue as I somehow felt a universe of ancient possibilities open up, reliving forgotten desires from visiting a particular bookshop during my childhood. As if to break the unease, the librarian suggested he read a passage from ‘The Great Library of Tomorrow’, the book that was lying in front of him, almost radiating. The words he read to me then acted as a kind of gateway into a lucid dream that I hope I will never forget:

“Yet as he made his way over, trying to keep beneath the shelter of the trees, he realized something about the scene wasn’t quite as expected. The disused alleyway between the bar and the shop next door was no longer empty. The scattered boxes and overflowing garbage containers were nowhere to be seen.”

“Instead, there was a very small, very thin, and incredibly familiar bookshop with rain washing down its windows. An entire building that looked as if it had always been there, nestled quietly between the others beside it, waiting for him. There was a hand-painted sign above the window. ‘La Luna’, it said in dreamy white letters.”

The librarian noticed my surprised look from the corner of his eyes and then softly assured me that “none of this is real.” He repeated himself more loudly, and asked me too to repeat his words. I heard myself say it out loud, too: “None of this is real.” But the more I think about this five-letter sentence now, the less I believe it actually holds any truth. Was today’s journey real, or was I dreaming?

If you love reading as much as I do, go and look for that little bookshop called La Luna. If my hunch is correct, it will only continue to physically exist for the remainder of this afternoon, after which, of course, it may periodically return to you in half-forgotten dreams. But I don’t think I dreamt the following coordinates, jotted down after the librarian let me back out again: 50°51’01.2”N 4°21’06.2”E. Lastly, I want you to know what the librarian told me just before I left. These were his soothing last words: “The Great

Library of Tomorrow rewards all inquiring minds.” When I put my hand in my pocket, I felt a small token which I believe will ease my passage into the mysteries beyond. The old librarian was kind to me, and I’m sure he’ll be kind to you too.

Whether other places like this tiny, wonderful shop exist, I cannot say for sure. But I strongly suspect that in the magical nooks and crannies of our world, other cracks appear that lead to the Great Library as well. I truly hope that you, dear reader, can find them too.

Lots of love and yours truly,

Your fellow Reader of Tomorrow

NOT ONE MONTAGOE VISIT REMAINS UNRECORDED!

bASSJAC K ErS

FOCUS ON THE DANCEFLOOR

Time flies by so fast, and it feels unreal: Dutch duo Bassjackers have been in the game for nearly two decades. There’s basically two approaches to performing when you’ve got so much history behind you. The first one, let’s call it the ‘greatest hits’ way of doing things, is all about giving your longtime fans exactly what they want. The second approach, which is Bassjackers’ mode of preference, involves a full focus on current releases. There’s something special about presenting tracks that are fresh off the shelf, and Marlon Flohr, the performing half of Bassjackers, knows it: Tomorrowland shows require a great deal of preparation, hyperfocus, and a measure of nerve-defying coolness. We speak to Marlon and his musical partner, Ralph van Hilst, some twenty-four hours after Bassjackers’ first Mainstage performance in two years, and about ninety minutes ahead of Saturday’s show at the underwater world that is Planaxis. This is their take on 20 years in the game.

There’s a binary structure to Bassjackers’ mode of producing and performing music. Ralph’s working life largely happens in the studio, while Marlon is a natural performer. Communication between the studio and the booth was complicated in the early days, but it has improved over time. “I now know that I shouldn’t type my feedback to Ralph,” says Marlon. “It doesn’t work for him, he won’t even read what I have to say. After a while I started sending him simple musical sketches, which turned out to be an approach that resonates much better with him.”

Friday’s Mainstage performance was a clear reflection of the duo’s musical evolution of the past couple of years. Fresh sounds as well as new tempos dominated the entire performance. “Out of the 28 tracks I played, 25 were either entirely our own or co-productions,” says Marlon. “Our BPMs have gone up and it’s all become a lot more bouncy. Our current sound resonates really well with the younger generation of ravers. We’re hardly playing any of our older songs at the moment, to be honest.” Ralph loves how dance music in general has been influenced by the current popularity of techno: “At some point, the scene had become almost too musical, with lots of dopamine shots, as we used to call them. After one of those shots, you’d do 16 or maybe 24 bars of beats before moving onto the next familiar breakdown. That really feels like a thing from the past for us. Nowadays, people just want to

dance, so you can keep rhythms running for longer. Dance music has become dance music again. This development is most definitely a positive influence, albeit an unconscious one, from the resurgence of techno.”

The fact that electronic music has become more danceable again also means that the Bassjackers have returned to where it all started for them. “We’ve always been passionate about partying,” says Ralph. “Then slowly but surely, your career develops in such a way that it ends up being like actual work. Everyone knows what it’s like to feel a bit lost for a moment. At that point, you have to take that bird’s-eye view and ask yourself the question: why was I doing this again? We just decided to go and party again, hit the dancefloor recreatively like we used to, without any work purposes in mind. We’re still really into this vibe. Just the other day we were in Ibiza, and everyone else was heading into the VIP area. But we went and mingled with the crowd, just to experience the vibe on the floor for ourselves. I now often just stand there and dance. Some people look at me funny and call it something else entirely.” Marlon laughs: “Your body moves rhythmically to the music, let’s just leave it at that...”

Even if Bassjackers sets have changed considerably, the duo aren’t back to where they were in pre-big room times. Ralph: “Look, of course we’re drawn to the way a guy like Carl Cox does his thing on stage. In a way, the kind of DJ’ing he practices is the most beautiful thing there is. But our approach and our world is different: we have records to promote. You try to strike that balance, to harmonise your passion with the business part of things.” Marlon melancholically recalls the old days: “For me, DJ’ing is still very much about going with the flow. Not even ten years ago, I would often just walk onto the stage with my USB drive and a whole lot of confidence. And I’d put on a great set, without too much preparation. But the downside of this approach was that I’d sometimes just forget to play our most recent release. All nostalgia aside, Marlon also thoroughly enjoys the current Bassjackers approach: “Last Friday at the Mainstage, I saved the best for last: our very own take on MGMT’s ‘Kids’. That indescribable feeling before you drop it, when you know it’s gonna go off, is absolutely priceless.”

WORK HARD, PLAY HARD

You come across some peculiar types in a lifetime full of human encounters. Many of you will be familiar with Joren from Belgium by now. He works as a mobile cup return point. Works? Dances, rather, because his job is all about joining the rave while he does good for the planet. In the meantime, fellow People of Tomorrow slowly fill up his backpack and as the cup hits the bottom of Joren’s bag, their deposit money automatically returns to their accounts.

MUSIC IS MUSIC

Music journalists like to think in boxes, or rather: genres. Sorry about that! Taylor from Australia is the living proof that dividing the world into separate categories doesn’t make any sense. She couldn’t be more excited to finally experience Tomorrowland, proudly wearing her Sonic Youth t-shirt. Sonic what? The band, spearheaded by Thurston Moore and Kim Gordon, led the way for massively popular grunge acts like Nirvana back in the 1990s. Taylor: “I just love how their chords keep flowing endlessly.” There’s not much guitar music at Tomorrowland, but music is music and Taylor doesn’t mind: “I’m keen to see John Summit, I want to know what the hype is about!”

SABAI SABAI, THIS WAY

At Papillon, Amazing Thailand brings a taste of Thai culture, colour and atmosphere into Tomorrowland. It is a bright little escape within the festival, shaped by flavours, details and that easy-going feeling captured in the words ‘sabai sabai’. Follow the Sabai Sabai Route across the grounds and look out for Thai-inspired touchpoints along the way, where you can collect small surprises such as a bracelet. With Tomorrowland Thailand waiting later this year, this is a gentle first hello from a world that is already calling.

Not ready to let the magic end after today? Gather at least four friends, a few slips of paper, a pen and a cup or hat, and create your own Tomorrowland Time’s Up. Everyone writes down five words: unforgettable memories, people, objects or inside jokes from the weekend. Mix them together, split into two teams, and race through three 30-second rounds: first, explain the word without saying it. Next, use only one clue. Finally, act it out without speaking. Reuse the same words every round and watch the laughter grow. The best memories always deserve an encore.

STAY SHARP

Somewhere between the first walk across the grounds and the final set you promised not to miss, your body may ask for a little help. Hydro Ice is there to keep you refreshed and alert as the day stretches into night. Find Hydro Ice points across the festival grounds when you want to cool down, reset, and stay one step ahead of the next stage change. Think of it as a small pause button before you press play again. Cold, quick, and very useful!

CATCH IT IF YOU CAN

Flying Fish is on the move this year, especially around DreamVille. Look out for mobile carts, playful games and little bursts of activity that can appear just when you are heading somewhere else entirely. The element of surprise is half the fun! One minute you’ll be walking back from the Marketplace with breakfast in your hand, the next you’ll suddenly be part of a game you didn’t even know existed. Follow the carts, bring a friend and see what happens next!

From the Tomorrowland Today team to all of you: our heartfelt thanks for following our – and your! – adventures over the weekend via this newspaper. Your smiles and energy make these pages magical, and to that we tip our hat!

CRAFTING TOMORROWLAND’S CULINARY SOUL

GLOBAL EXECUTIVE HEAD

CHEF THIJS MELIEFSTE

Every unforgettable Tomorrowland story is built on emotion. It lives in the music, the breathtaking stages, the performers, the people and, increasingly, on the plate. Food has become far more than a welcome break between sets. It has evolved into another language through which Tomorrowland tells its story, one that awakens memories, sparks conversations and creates moments of wonder. Few people understand that better than Dutch Michelin-star chef Thijs Meliefste, who stepped into the newly created role of Global Executive Head Chef of Tomorrowland this year. After years of helping shape the festival’s acclaimed restaurants, Meliefste has traded his own restaurant for an ambitious new adventure: creating a culinary DNA that stretches far beyond the Holy Grounds. His mission reaches from Belgium to Ibiza, from fine dining to burgers and from festival classics to future destinations around the world. Fittingly, his own Tomorrowland journey began long before this new title. In fact, he was already cooking at Tomorrowland during the unforgettable summer in which he received his Michelin star – a coincidence that now feels like destiny.

year, for the very first time, they are all united under a single culinary vision. “It has been incredibly busy,” Meliefste smiles after making his rounds. “Day one is always the hardest. Thursday was our test run, but Friday is when everything truly comes alive. Suddenly every venue is open, every kitchen is running at full speed and you need to make sure every team is working together.” That coordination is no small challenge. Unlike a traditional restaurant where one brigade works from a single kitchen, Tomorrowland brings together numerous catering partners. “Almost everyone is new to

“I don’t want to copy trends, I want to create experiences.”

each other,” he explains. “My job was to build a structure that allows all those different teams to function as one. We had to create a system capable of handling enormous volumes while maintaining quality. It’s a huge logistical operation, but we’ve succeeded.”

His title may sound impressive, but Meliefste quickly explains that his responsibility extends far beyond supervising kitchens. “I’m responsible for the development and long-term strategy of Tomorrowland’s culinary experience. More than anything, I’m trying to create a true food DNA for Tomorrowland.” That phrase, ‘food DNA’, returns repeatedly throughout the conversation. “Everyone recognises Tomorrowland through the butterfly logo, the stages and, of course, the music. I want people to eventually recognise

“I’m trying to create a true food DNA for Tomorrowland.”

Tomorrowland through its food as well. I want guests to experience something on their plate that immediately feels unmistakably like Tomorrowland.” If a stage tells a story before the first artist even walks on, every dish should evoke emotion before the first bite: “The feeling can be visual, it can be emotional, it can be simply delicious. But ideally, I’d like it to be all three.”

The challenge lies in translating a feeling into flavour. “For me, taste always comes first,” our head chef explains. “That’s a nonnegotiable. Food has to be genuinely delicious. But after that, presentation is extremely important. Every dish should feel worthy of the experience. Whenever possible, I want people to see something they’ve never quite seen before.” That search for originality mirrors Tomorrowland’s own creative philosophy. “I don’t want to copy trends, I want to create experiences,” Thijs goes on. And those experiences increasingly draw inspiration from every corner of the world.

As Tomorrowland continues expanding internationally, its cuisine naturally follows. “I try to bring flavours from different continents

together. We have influences from Japan, Italy, England and many other places. Every destination contributes something unique. Together they become part of Tomorrowland’s own culinary language.” A language which is anything but straightforward to build. “This role didn’t exist before I joined. We’re discovering what Tomorrowland’s culinary identity can become. It’s really a journey of research, testing and learning.”

The journey already stretches well beyond Belgium. One of Meliefste’s biggest upcoming projects is Essence Ibiza, Tomorrowland’s new destination where gastronomy will play a central role alongside nightlife. “For me, that’s one of the most exciting projects, because it allows us to develop something completely new. It’s not simply about creating another restaurant, it’s about designing a complete experience where food becomes part of the story.” And Ibiza, he believes, is only the beginning. “Hopefully, more Tomorrowland venues will appear around the world. That also means our culinary identity has to become scalable. We need concepts that remain recognisably Tomorrowland wherever people experience them.”

To make that happen, Meliefste is steadily expanding his own team. “We’re still a relatively small department, but we’ll continue growing. We’ll need specialists in research, development and concept creation. My role is increasingly about setting the direction and making sure every venue stays true to the vision.” A vision that extends well beyond the festival’s signature restaurants.

During preparation week, Meliefste spent hours walking across the Holy Grounds. “I visited as many food stands as possible. I wanted to understand how every concept works, what people are doing well, what could be improved and what ideas deserve more attention.” Rather than replacing successful concepts, he wants to elevate them. “Some partners like Brasa already make fantastic products. My role isn’t to change everything. It’s to see if maybe new tastes can come out of combining our strengths, and making great concepts even better, even more Tomorrowland.”

Coming from Michelin-starred fine dining, adapting to large-scale festival food has been an education in itself. “I’ll be honest,” he laughs. “A year ago I barely knew anything about burgers. That sounds strange coming from a Michelin chef, but burgers are a completely different discipline. The same goes for pizzas or other street food concepts.” The biggest difference is scale. “In fine dining you’re serving maybe a few dozen guests at a time. Here we’re talking about thousands of dishes in a single day. Suddenly consistency becomes just as important as creativity.” That challenge fascinates him. “How do you improve something that’s already popular – take the Tomorrowland burger or the Tomorrowland waffle – without making it slower, more complicated or devoid of its initial appeal, namely the sheer simplicity and modesty of the dish? That’s the puzzle we’re solving.”

Behind every improvement lies the same question: “Does this feel like Tomorrowland?”

That question now guides everything Meliefste’s team creates. It also explains why collaboration with Tomorrowland’s creative departments in other disciplines has become more important than ever. Menus, storytelling, environments and emotions increasingly evolve together, transforming restaurants into extensions of each year’s magical theme rather than standalone dining venues.

This year’s theme, Consciencia, feels particularly fitting for Meliefste’s philosophy. Food, after all, is one of the most emotional experiences we share. A familiar flavour can transport us back in time. A beautifully presented plate can spark Wonder before we’ve even taken a bite. A shared meal can connect strangers from opposite sides of the world. Those moments are exactly what Tomorrowland has always been about. As the first festival weekend unfolds more smoothly with every passing hour, Meliefste finally hopes to do something he promised to himself before arriving. “When I accepted this role I made one deal,” he smiles. “I’ll work as hard as I can, but I want to spend at least one day walking around the festival simply experiencing everything.” The reality of the opening day had other plans. “So far there hasn’t been a single spare minute, but no complaints from me!”

Now that systems are running, responsibilities are shared and everyone has fallen into a rhythm, Thijs hopes to steal a few moments to roam the Holy Grounds later – not as the man responsible for every plate leaving the kitchen, but simply as another one of the People of Tomorrow. For even if his job is to feed hundreds of thousands of festivalgoers, even a Global Executive Head Chef occasionally needs to stop, look around, and savour the magic himself. And if Meliefste succeeds in his mission, the future generations of festivalgoers won’t only remember Tomorrowland for the music they heard or the stages they explored –they’ll remember exactly how it tasted.

Keeping Tomorrowland Safe Different Roles, One Shared Goal

Behind every unforgettable festival lies an invisible network of people working together. While tens of thousands of People of Tomorrow dance their way through magical days and nights, specialists in prevention, healthcare, security and law enforcement quietly work side by side to make sure everyone gets home safely. We sat down with Belgium’s National Drug Commissioner Ine Van Wymersch to talk about festivals, responsibility, and why Tomorrowland has become an example of how different worlds can work together.

To Belgium’s National Drug Commissioner Ine Van Wymersch, Tomorrowland means something different than to the average festivalgoer. Whereas most people are drawn here by music, friendship and unforgettable memories, Van Wymersch sees one of the world’s largest temporary communities, a place where trends become visible, where organised crime tries to find opportunities, and where prevention, care and enforcement all meet.

Despite – or perhaps because of – her job title, her message is remarkably balanced. “The majority of people don’t use drugs at festivals,” she explains. “They simply don’t stand out. What people notice are the few individuals whose behaviour attracts attention.” That distinction matters. Her work is not about hunting down individual users, but about disrupting the criminal networks that profit from supplying illegal substances. Festivals are attractive to dealers not because of the music, but because they bring together thousands of potential customers from all over the world in one place.

For law enforcement, that means looking well beyond the festival gates. Airports, hotels, transport hubs and travel routes all become part of a much wider picture. The goal is to stop criminal organisations before they even reach the festival itself. One message returns throughout the conversation: every euro spent on illegal drugs ultimately flows towards organised crime. “There is no such thing as fair-trade drugs,” she says. “The money generated doesn’t simply disappear. It finances recruitment of new dealers, fuels corruption, distorts honest businesses and strengthens criminal organisations that affect society far beyond nightlife.” Van Wymersch’ concern, therefore, extends well beyond the health risks of ‘just’ drug use. At the same time, she recognises that prevention cannot rely on fear alone.

People often believe they know what they are buying, while in reality there is no guarantee whatsoever. Pills may contain different substances than expected, dosages can vary enormously, and even tablets that look identical can have completely different compositions. Add in dehydration, lack of sleep, alcohol, underlying medical conditions or differences in body weight, and predicting the

effects becomes virtually impossible. That uncertainty is precisely why awareness campaigns remain so important.

Tomorrowland invests heavily in informing its international audience long before anyone arrives in Belgium. From the moment ticket sales begin, visitors receive clear information about Belgian legislation, the festival’s zero-tolerance policy and the importance of making informed choices. For many international guests, these rules differ significantly from those in their home countries. The commissioner applauds those efforts. Prevention, she believes, deserves just as much attention as enforcement.

Perhaps the most remarkable part of the conversation, however, is how she describes the cooperation behind the scenes. Tomorrowland brings together organisations with very different responsibilities: police officers focus on enforcement, prevention organisations educate visitors. Medical teams and initiatives such as We Care A Lot provide care whenever someone needs help. On paper, those missions may appear different, but in practice, they strengthen one another. “Just because healthcare organisations keep the threshold for seeking help as low as possible, that does not mean that they are encouraging drug use,” says Van Wymersch. “And it’s not because Tomorrowland has a zero-tolerance policy that there cannot be healthcare for all on site.”

That mutual understanding has grown over many years. Instead of working against one another, the different partners increasingly understand each other’s responsibilities and share the same objective: creating a safe, welcoming festival where problems are prevented whenever possible and help is available whenever necessary.

In many ways, Tomorrowland has become a blueprint for that multidisciplinary approach. Rather than choosing between strict enforcement or compassionate care, it demonstrates that both can exist side by side. Or, as the commissioner sums it up perfectly: enforce when necessary, care when needed, and keep informing people whenever possible. Because every incident that can be prevented is one that never has to be solved.

And perhaps that is one of the quietest successes of Tomorrowland: behind the spectacular stages and unforgettable moments stands an equally impressive collaboration dedicated to keeping the People of Tomorrow safe.

DIM MAK TURNS 30

Yesterday Tomorrowland became a celebration of electronic music history as Steve Aoki marked the 30th anniversary of his legendary Dim Mak Records. What began as an independent label has grown into one of dance music’s most influential platforms, launching and supporting countless artists while helping to shape the sound of modern electronic music. The anniversary was celebrated in style at Planaxis with performances by Steve Aoki, Laidback Luke, and Bassjackers. A surprise appearance by Reinier Zonneveld and Steve turned the stage into a tribute to three decades of boundarypushing music. Thirty years on, Dim Mak continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans, proving its impact is stronger than ever. And of course there was cake, too. On to the next 30!

GIVE NATURE A HAND

For one weekend, DreamVille is yours. And what’s yours is yours to look after: every bottle, every can, every wrapper that passes through your hands must go somewhere, in the end. The Recycle Club is Love Tomorrow’s way of making that easy: a place to sort what you no longer need, so the grounds you dreamed and danced on for days will be left as beautiful as you found them. Find the Recycle Club near the Gathering stage and give nature a hand this weekend, and it might just return the favour. On Monday morning, the campers who kept their corner cleanest will be given a real hand hauling their gear to the exit. Fair trade, we’d say.

NATION OF CELEBRATION

This summer, flags are everywhere. On football shirts, painted cheeks, campsite poles, and of course on shoulders in the crowd. While the World Cup has the planet holding its breath over every pass, Budweiser brings that same international buzz to the Freedom Stage. Beneath the spectacular Floating Sky, every nation celebrates differently: some sing, some jump, some start a chant in three languages at once. But when the music rises, those differences become part of the same roar. Find your flag, raise your hands, and let the Freedom Stage by Budweiser turn global rivalry into one shared celebration.

NEVER MISS A BEAT

You’re already living it: the bass in your chest, the crowd’s roar, the Holy Grounds humming under your feet. So why catch the livestream? Because not even the Tomorrowland magic can get you to all stages at once. Missing Calvin Harris on Mainstage while queueing for fries? Channel one has you covered. Curious what’s unfolding at Freedom over on the other end of the grounds? Channel two awaits. And if you want to pause the beats while sipping tea at Papillon, One World Radio will carry you further still, with artists stepping straight from the backstage into your ears with one-off interviews. The livestream is on daily between 14:00 and midnight via the Tomorrowland app.

MELODIA IN THE SUN

At Melodia Stage powered by Corona, rhythm comes with a breeze. The stage has always had a way of making the day feel lighter, with easy grooves, warm smiles and a bar close enough for a relaxed pause between sets. Grab a Corona, find your place near the soundsystem and let the stage do its soft work. Not every festival memory has to arrive with fireworks: some come from standing in the afternoon light, with a drink in hand, when the beat is exactly where it should be.

WE CARE A LOT

Partying with care, awareness, and respect makes your Tomorrowland experience even more magical. And in order to facilitate that, the We Care a Lot team is available throughout both DreamVille and the festival grounds to support health, safety and inclusion, always in a non-judgmental manner. Whenever you find yourself in a situation where you need help for yourself or for a friend, never hesitate to reach out to a member of the team, no matter what it is: We Care a Lot is there to be your helping hand and trustworthy friend.

LOST IN T H AISLATION,

FOUND IN FLAVOUR

Where Thai food and cocktails swap places, on purpose

In Bangkok, there’s a cocktail bar so hidden that even Google Maps will fail you. A deliberate move, as nobody gets lost these days anymore – and Thai mixologist Fahbeer wants people to rediscover that magic. “If you know, you know” is how she gets curious callers going around in circles for her location. At Tomorrowland, however, she wants the magic be found. Deep in Papillon’s Thai garden, Lost in Thaislation combines the wonders of getting lost with an unexpected translation service. Fahbeer turns Thai food into cocktails, and cocktails into food.

Step inside, and “from Bangkok with love” becomes very real indeed. From paint to playlist, Fahbeer’s speakeasy has been rebuilt down to the details at Papillon. Even the rituals travel along – walk in, and you’re welcomed with a warm “sawadee ka,” the same greeting that opens every visit to the original place. And the translations continue after that.

SOLID TO LIQUID, AND BACK AGAIN

In plain English? This is mango sticky rice, but make it a cocktail. Or pisco sour, but make it a dish. At the heart of this gem lies a simple trick, played out across three rotating pairings: Thai food poured into a cocktail glass, with classic cocktails plated as dishes. Your tastebuds will be tricked even further with surprising twists along the way. Take the Thai Fruit Cart cocktail, which comes in a glass with different parts of its edge dipped in distinct flavours – salt, sugar, spice – so the taste shifts depending on where your lips land. No wonder some returning visitors complete all three pairings in a row, making sure they get to taste every peculiar combination on the menu.

Every visit ends with a small, sweet surprise, and then it’s out into the Thai garden, where you might stumble straight into a Thai ritual mid-dance. Dancers offer friendship bracelets to whoever crosses their path, a reminder that no matter the distance, people from every region can still find their way to each other – a small echo of the many paths crossing here at Tomorrowland.

INSPIRATION FLOWS BOTH WAYS

The exchange runs in both directions. Somewhere between the Holy Grounds and her next Bangkok menu, Fahbeer is already sketching a Belgian chocolate and waffle cocktail. Fitting, then, that her own name translates to ‘beer cap’ in Thai – a small nod to the Belgian beer heritage, and proof that the connection might have always been there. Soon, the new recipe will carry a trace of Tomorrowland back into Fahbeer’s Bangkok bar – a little spark that paves the way before Tomorrowland sets foot in Thailand for real.

TASTEFULLY LOST

“Lost for words” is how Christopher from the US describes it. “Next to Tomorrowland Thailand, we’re adding an extra item to our bucket list – Fahbeer’s bar in Bangkok. Once we tasted this, we knew we had to go.”

Christopher, USA

Yasmine’s return after yesterday’s visit says it all, but there’s more: “The calm, the exclusivity, the surprising flavours. I came back today just to taste the parts I missed – and I’ll be honest, I’m already planning a third tasting before the weekend’s over.”

Yasmine, Belgium

GET LOST IN THAISLATION

Papillon Thai Garden | 14:00 - 20:00 | Walk-in concept

Three rotating pairings to discover New pairing every 30 min

Discovering new sounds across the Holy Grounds is a treat to every music lover, but the overwhelming amount of choice makes it everything but a walk in the park. Where to go, when? How to divide your time between the grandest stages and the smaller, hard-to-find gems? Worry not, as the next pages will serve as your personal guide to Tomorrowland’s magical universe of music. Enjoy the sounds!

TEAM DAMP ELIXIR

Belgian duo Team Damp have made a name for themselves in terms of both dancehall parties and productions. Their infectious music includes collabs with both Jamaican and international heroes such as Busy Signal, Charly Black and Leftside. The parties Hannes De Wispelaere (the DJ) and Wannes Loosveldt (the MC) throw are even more legendary, and today you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in their sexy, Jamaica-inspired style. DJs such as Favella son Sistema, Heaven Sam, Sleazy Stereo and of course Team Damp themselves will serve you a juicy mix of dancehall and other particularly funky Latin American genres. Head over to intimate Elixir, relax, and surrender yourself to a few hours of sonic juiciness.

EXHALE ATMOSPHERE

Not only is Belgian techno heavyweight Amelie Lens an artist and DJ to be reckoned with, she’s also an extraordinary connector, bringing artists from across the globe together on her Exhale label. As such, she has created a tight-knit community within the wider techno scene. The numerous compilations Lens has released on the label have linked up artists and introduced many of them to an entirely new audience. The Exhale hosting at Atmosphere is a reflection of that community, with a lineup of artists the label’s head honcho truly believes in including underground selector Anetha from France, Dutch up-and-comer VE/RA, and SHDW with his dark and moody sound. Needless to say, this Exhale event would not be complete without an anticipated appearance by Ms. Lens herself.

SMASH THE HOUSE THE GREAT LIBRARY

Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike have been at the heart of Tomorrowland for as long as we can remember. Even their residency at Ushuaïa Ibiza is produced by Tomorrowland, so there’s no doubt that the festival’s spirit runs through everything they do. It’s no surprise, then, that their stage hosting provides a standout experience. Their fullon party concept Smash the House carries an unmistakable feeling of excitement, unity and discovery, bringing together artists that span the full spectrum of electronic music. With Dirty Dutch pioneer Afrojack, allround legends Blasterjaxx, psytrance dons Vini Vici and Dimitri Vegas playing a set alongside Timmy Trumpet, this year’s Smash the House line-up is as strong as ever.

MAINSTAGE 19:40 - 20:40

CHARLOTTE DE WITTE TECHNO IS FREEDOM

Some artists just play Tomorrowland, others become part of its story, and Charlotte de Witte is one of the latter. Fifteen years after first setting foot on its sacred grounds, she returns not simply as Belgium’s most influential electronic music export, but as the undisputed queen of techno. From intimate club basements to closing the Mainstage as the first techno artist – and the first woman – to do so, her journey mirrors the evolution of techno itself: fearless, uncompromising and relentlessly authentic.

This year has marked yet another defining chapter. Fresh from releasing her long-awaited self-titled debut album, and continuing to push the boundaries of her KNTXT universe across the globe, Charlotte remains one of dance music’s most respected innovators, proving that artistic integrity can fill the biggest stages on Earth. For Consciencia, Tomorrowland’s celebration of the full spectrum of human emotion, there may be no better guide. In this conversation ahead of tonight’s Mainstage performance, Charlotte reflects on the six emotions, on sacrifice and the freedom that has shaped her remarkable path. It is an honest look behind the dark, hypnotic beats, revealing the warmth, gratitude and humanity that have always driven her forward. Because beneath the pounding kickdrums lies something timeless: the simple, powerful feeling of truly belonging.

WONDER

Charlotte, it’s been exactly fifteen years since you first stepped into Tomorrowland as Raving George. If you could meet that younger version of yourself today, what do you think would amaze her most about the journey that followed?

“Honestly, the whole journey has just been such a rollercoaster. I remember playing for the first time in 2011 on the Mainstage as Raving George, a name I dropped about four years later, in 2015. And ever since, things just started going crazy in the best way. I did so many releases, I toured the globe multiple times, and I think I’ve returned to Tomorrowland almost every year since then, maybe skipping one or two editions along the way. In a way, our paths, Tomorrowland’s and mine, have crossed again and again. I had a huge moment on the Mainstage in 2018 and 2019, and then an even bigger one in 2022, when I closed it for the first time as a techno act, and as a woman. So yeah, it’s been quite a ride, and I think that’s exactly what would amaze the younger me most, seeing just how far that first set would take her.”

Even after playing the biggest stages in the world, is there still something about Tomorrowland that makes you feel genuine wonder?

“Tomorrowland, to me, will always feel like coming home. I think that’s because our stories are so intertwined, and in a way, they’ve run parallel to each other over the years. But it’s also because we’re both from Belgium. We share so much history, culture, and heritage, both from the country and the music itself. So Tomorrowland will always be a special one to me.”

LOVE

People often describe techno as cold, yet the connection between an artist and a crowd can feel incredibly intimate. What does love look like on a dancefloor?

“To me, love on the dancefloor can happen in so many ways. It

can happen between the people on the floor themselves, in those interpersonal connections that spark out of nowhere. But it can also happen from my point of view, looking out at the crowd. There’s such a strong force of energy that takes place between a DJ and the crowd, with everyone moving and dancing in sync, on the same frequency, to the same beats. I think there’s real love to be found in that unity, and honestly, that’s what makes dance culture so special to me.”

Over the past fifteen years, has your relationship with Tomorrowland changed – from proving yourself to simply enjoying the moment, for instance?

“With Tomorrowland, I always try to find a balance between being able to reach people with music that’s quite underground and doesn’t always speak to the big masses, while also staying true to my story and the sound I love so much. Obviously, techno has grown a lot since 2011, and I’ve also become more and more secure in the sound I love, play, and bring. So in that sense, it’s only become stronger and more clearly expressed over the years.”

ANGER

Techno has always challenged conventions. Is there something in today’s music industry that still makes you want to rebel?

“Sixteen years ago, I started my DJ career playing in clubs all over Belgium and then all over the world, and club culture has really shaped me into the person I am today. Nowadays, clubs are genuinely struggling, so what I try to do with my DJ sets and show productions is to create awareness around how important they are. I try to encourage people to actually go out and experience it for themselves, wholeheartedly, but always with a message of love. I strongly believe that dancing together to the beat is one of the most powerful, unifying things on this planet, and that’s something I want to protect and fight for.”

JOY

What moment from the past fifteen years at Tomorrowland instantly brings a smile to your face?

“Well, besides the epic moments I’ve shared on stage, and the stages I’ve hosted with KNTXT, what truly makes the difference at Tomorrowland is the crew. The staff, the people backstage, hospitality,

artist handling – they’ll know who they are when they read this – are truly wonderful people. They’re the ones who make us feel right at home, comfortable, and loved, every single time.”

Your sets can be very intense, yet you often look completely at peace behind the decks. Where does that joy come from?

“That one’s easy, because I genuinely love what I do. I love mixing music, making people dance, and seeing them smile, watching those reactions on their faces. That’s where the joy comes from.”

DESIRE

After conquering so many milestones, what ambition still keeps you awake at night?

“Honestly, I feel so lucky, and I’m so happy with everything I’ve already achieved so far. It’s just in my nature to take things as far as they can go, while really enjoying the ride along the way.”

SADNESS

Looking back over fifteen years, is there something you’ve had to let go of to become the artist you are today?

“Great and exceptional things come with a price, and I’ve made my own sacrifices along the way to get where I am. I think the biggest thing that all of us, all the artists, give up is a normal weekend life, a social life with friends and family, weddings, funerals, birthdays, all those moments. I think I speak for many of us when I say that’s the biggest price to pay.”

Does nostalgia ever conquer you when you think about the Raving George era, or do you prefer to keep looking forward?

“Of course, those were the early days, and I look back on it with much love and admiration. Everything was so exciting. The world was my oyster, and things just started happening. So I have beautiful memories of that period, and I’ll cherish it forever.”

TECHNO IS

CONSCIENCIA

Consciencia explores the full spectrum of human emotion. Which emotion do you think techno expresses better than words ever could, and why?

“To me, techno truly expresses connection and love, and that’s because I genuinely love this music so much, my soul feels free when I play and hear it. It brings me peace. I can imagine that for other people, other genres might feel more fitting, but that’s the power of music. It speaks to everyone differently, but that connection stays.”

If your fifteen-year Tomorrowland journey were a single emotion rather than a timeline, what would it be? And what makes that emotion the truest reflection of who Charlotte de

“If I had to pick one emotion, I’d say it’s freedom, freedom mixed with so much gratitude. Techno gave me a place to fully be myself, and Tomorrowland has been the stage where that freedom kept growing, year after year. I think that’s the truest reflection of who I am today, someone who found her own sound, stayed true to it, and got to share that journey with a crowd, and a festival that felt like home the whole way through.”

SUNDAY

MAINSTAGE

CONSCIENCIA

Closing Show 23:55 - 00:00

Calvin Harris 22:50 - 23:50

Alesso 21:45 - 22:45

John Summit 20:40 - 21:40

Charlotte De Witte 19:40 - 20:40

B Jones 18:55 - 19:35

Kevin de Vries 17:30 - 18:50

Malugi 16:30 - 17:30

Karakals 15:30 - 16:30

Hannah Laing 14:30 - 15:30

Discovery 12:00 - 14:30

MC Stretch

FREEDOM BY BUD

I Hate Models 22:00 - 23:30

Alok: Rave the World 21:00 - 22:00

Chase & Status (DJ set) 20:00 - 21:00

Pegassi 18:30 - 20:00

Jack Shore 17:30 - 18:30

Arielle Free 16:00 - 17:30

DIGITAL

MADn ESS

THE ROSE GARDEN | 12:00 – 13:00

With no less than twelve artists under eighteen, Tomorrowland’s 2026 edition is breaking records when it comes to the amount of youngsters featured on the line-up. This is today’s most exciting prodigy!

Real name: Jayson Doornheijn Age: 13

Country of origin: The Netherlands SoundCloud: soundcloud.com/digitalmadnessofficial

Style of music: There’s no doubt about it: Digital Madness files under hardstyle. As a matter of fact, he is currently signed to Brennan Heart’s label I Am Hardstyle.

First attempt at DJing: Jayson’s story didn’t start with DJ’ing. Rather, he started to appear on line-ups about a year ago on the back of his career as a producer, which began when he was eight years old, give or take.

Famous words: “I get this really big urge to make music but then I’m stuck at school. It’s hard to concentrate on maths, history and everything when all you want to do is make music.”

Why you shouldn’t miss this gig: Digital Madness has already performed at some of the world’s biggest hard dance events including Defqon.1, Decibel Outdoor and Rebirth. Tomorrowland is the next milestone in his career. Hardstyle history is about to be written and you’ve got the chance to witness it!

Aline Rocha 15:00 - 16:00

DJ Licious 13:30 - 15:00

Neon 12:00 - 13:30

THE ROSE GARDEN

SUB ZERO PROJECT & FRIENDS

The Saints 22:00 - 22:50

Sub Zero Project 20:30 - 22:00

Pat B 19:30 - 20:30

Rebelion 18:30 - 19:30

Isaac 17:30 - 18:30

Rooler 16:30 - 17:30

TNT 15:30 - 16:30

Adrenalize 14:30 - 15:30

The Z. 13:00 - 14:30

Digital Madness 12:00 - 13:00

Villain

PAPILLON

PUCK 17:30 - 22:00

Yelmet 13:00 - 17:30

TEAM DAMP

ELIXIR

Jeronimø 23:00 - 00:00

Sleazy Stereo 22:00 - 23:00

Tribal Kush 21:00 - 22:00

Karyo 20:00 - 21:00

Heaven Sam 19:00 - 20:00

Team Damp 18:00 - 19:00

Noah 17:00 - 18:00

DJ Fasta 16:00 - 17:00

Favella Som Sistema 15:00 - 16:00

Sako Glitch 14:00 - 15:00

G-Lo 13:00 - 14:00

CAGE

FACE 2 FACE

Adrián Mills F2F Sisu 21:30 - 23:00

Serafina F2F Zwilling 20:00 - 21:30

Emilija F2F Frederic. 18:30 - 20:00

David Löhlein F2F 17:00 - 18:30

Yasmin Regisford

FUMI F2F HUJUS 15:30 - 17:00

Hurts F2F ROW1 14:00 - 15:30

Klaps F2F Miamor 12:00 - 14:00

THE RAVE CAVE

WEAREONE.WORLD & FRIENDS

Godtripper 23:00 - 23:50

Coco Bevan 22:00 - 23:00

Mitched 21:00 - 22:00

Foxed Up 20:00 - 21:00

Nederhand 19:00 - 20:00

Noaffection b2b OM3N 17:30 - 19:00

Dries Smet 16:30 - 17:30

Mell Tierra 15:00 - 16:30

YERUN 13:00 - 15:00

PLANAXIS

MONSTERCAT

Subtronics 23:00 - 00:00

Seven Lions 22:00 - 23:00

Liquid Stranger 21:00 - 22:00

Malaa’s Alter Ego 20:00 - 21:00

Arcando 19:00 - 20:00

LEVEL UP 18:00 - 19:00

Nostalgix 17:00 - 18:00

[IVY] 16:00 - 17:00

Sabai 15:00 - 16:00

Punctual 13:15 - 15:00

Exception 12:00 - 13:15

MELODIA BY CORONA WITH LOVE FROM IBIZA BY DELAFINO

Felix Da Funk 21:30 - 23:00

Delafino 20:00 - 21:30

Marta Loe b2b Rebeca Ark 19:00 - 20:00

Lunnas 18:00 - 19:00

CRISTINA TOSIO 16:30 - 18:00

Tania Moon 15:30 - 16:30

Christian82 14:30 - 15:30

DJ Gee 13:30 - 14:30

Le Windey 12:00 - 13:30

CELESTIA BY KUCOIN

Nico Morano b2b Xinobi 21:00 - 22:30

MXGPU (Hybrid) 19:30 - 21:00

Helsloot 18:00 - 19:30

Öona Dahl 16:30 - 18:00

Fake Mood 15:00 - 16:30

Cyria (Hybrid) 13:30 - 15:00

Sentin 12:00 - 13:30

ATMOSPHERE EXHALE

Amelie Lens 22:30 - 23:55

Anetha 20:30 - 22:30

Øtta 19:00 - 20:30

SHDW b2b ÜBERKIKZ 17:30 - 19:00

Blondex 16:00 - 17:30

VE/RA 14:00 - 16:00

Flour 12:00 - 14:00

CORE

Job Jobse 22:00 - 23:50

Avalon Emerson b2b Ben UFO 20:00 - 22:00

Sedef Adasï 18:00 - 20:00

Fafi Abdel Nour 16:00 - 18:00

Ineffekt 14:00 - 16:00

Massignan.y 12:00 - 14:00

MOOSE BAR

Jerrooo

CRYSTAL GARDEN

DJ Tennis b2b Vintage Culture 22:00 - 23:30

Oscar and the Wolf 21:00 - 22:00

DJ Gigola 19:30 - 21:00

20:00 - 00:00

Effe Serieus 19:00 - 20:00

Les Mecs Eclectics 16:00 - 19:00

Tom Cosyns

12:00 - 16:00

THE GREAT LIBRARY SMASH THE HOUSE Vini

MAINSTAGE | 20:40

JOHN SUMMIT

From sold-out arenas and an Ibiza residency to his ever-expanding Experts Only universe, John Summit has become one of dance music’s most unstoppable forces. In just a few years, the former Chicago accountant transformed into a global phenomenon, blending explosive tech house energy with increasingly emotional, melodic storytelling.

Returning to the Tomorrowland Mainstage after one of last year’s most unforgettable performances, Summit reflects on pressure, purpose and the freedom to evolve.

John, last year you played one of the most talked-about Tomorrowland sets. Does returning feel like coming home or does it actually add more pressure?

“A bit of both, to be honest. Last year was such a surreal moment because Tomorrowland is one of those places you dream about playing when you’re starting out. You see those Mainstage moments and think, ‘How is that even possible?’ Then suddenly you’re standing there and thousands of people are singing every word. Obviously, last year was a little different with everything that happened with the stage burning down. It created this crazy, unexpected situation where everyone had to adapt, but that’s also what makes this festival special, the energy of the people never changed. There’s always pressure when it comes to massive festival moments like Tomorrowland and you know fans have high expectations. The biggest thing I’ve learned is you can’t chase the moment. You just have to get up there, be unapologetically yourself, play the music you believe in and let the crowd take it somewhere.”

Your new album ‘CTRL ESCAPE’ marked another step in your evolution as an artist. Looking back a few months after its release, what has that record taught you about yourself?

“It taught me that I don’t really like staying in one lane. I think early on people knew me for a certain sound, and I love that sound, but I’ve always been influenced by so many different types of music. Making an album forced me to slow down and think beyond just the club. It showed me that the moments people connect with most aren’t always the biggest drops. Sometimes it’s a lyric, a melody, or a feeling that reminds them of a specific moment in their life.”

You’ve gone from being known as the king of party-starting tech house to creating more melodic, emotional records. Do you see yourself consciously redefining what a John Summit set sounds like?

“I don’t think I’m trying to redefine it as much as I’m just allowing myself to evolve. I’ve never wanted to be the guy who makes the same song 100 times because that’s what worked once. The energy is still there. I still want people losing their minds at shows. But I think the difference now is there are more colours in the set. There are moments to go crazy and moments to sing as well.”

Social media often shows the wild, carefree side of John Summit. But behind the scenes you’re running a label, touring globally and recording and releasing albums. How do you separate the public persona from the man behind it?

“I think the funny thing is the public version is still me, it’s just one side of me. I’m definitely someone who loves having fun and being a little ridiculous, but there’s also a side of me that’s sitting in the studio at 4am obsessing over a kickdrum. The balance is important. The crazy moments are fun, but the work is needed.”

You’ll be celebrating your 32nd birthday in a few days and you’ve achieved more in a few years than many artists do in a lifetime. Has your definition of success changed since ‘Deep End’ first exploded?

“Completely. At the beginning, success was very numbers-driven, bigger shows, bigger streams, bigger achievements. Now I think success is more about building something that lasts. Making music that people genuinely connect with, building a real community, and looking out at a show and seeing people from all over the world

sharing that exact same moment. If you told the accountant version of me that this would be my life, I would’ve said you were crazy. Life has a funny way of working out.”

Your rise happened incredibly fast. Looking back at that former accountant from Chicago, what would surprise him most about the life you’re living today?

“Probably everything. The fact that I’m playing stages I used to watch online, travelling the world because of music, and building a team around something I created would have sounded completely insane. I think he’d also be surprised that I still have the same obsession with figuring things out. The job changed, but the curiosity part didn’t.”

Do you still feel like you’re chasing something, or are you more and more allowing yourself to enjoy the ride?

“I’m always chasing something and working towards something bigger. That’s what keeps me hungry and motivated. But I’m also trying to be better at appreciating the moments while they’re happening. It’s easy to always look ahead and forget that the thing you’re living now was once a goal. Live today, right?”

MAINSTAGE | 22:50

Calvin Harris is an artist deeply rooted in the tradition of club music. But that’s just one side of the coin: his releases always come with a catchy hook as well. Did you know that Calvin’s poppy and emotive signature sound only entered his work later on in his career? The Scottish producer, who was born into this world as Adam Richard Wiles, started out fitting into a British tradition of pop festival-sized dance acts such as The Chemical Brothers, Groove Armada, Faithless and Basement Jaxx. Many of his early works, which appeared on his debut album ‘I Created Disco’, have a distinctive electroclash vibe to them. This style, popular during the first years of the current millennium, combined clubby vibes with a twist of indie pop and the snare drums of 1980s electro. The title of his first single ‘Acceptable in the 1980s’ kind of gives it away, doesn’t it?

Harris’ commercial breakthrough happened in 2012, with the release of ‘18 Months’, a record that seemed to be part of a wellthought-out master plan. How did this relatively niche producer manage to get so many celebrity pop artists, including Rihanna, Kelis, Florence Welch and Dizzee Rascal, on that one smash record? No one knows, but since its release, which is one of electronic music’s defining records in hindsight, Harris’ music has been all about creating feelings. His output goes to show that deep emotions like Love, Sadness and all the other ones all complement each other, and that the type of massive stage you’ll find here at the Holy Grounds is especially suited to celebrating those feelings. You still have a grand finale to look forward to in this respect: Calvin Harris’ closing set at the Mainstage tonight will bring all emotions of Consciencia’s living narrative together as one.

CALVIN HARRIS JOB JOBSE SUNDAY

I HATE MODELS

FREEDOM 22:00 - 23:30

French producer and DJ I Hate Models has become one of techno’s most uncompromising and emotionally headstrong artists. Rejecting labels and conventions, he blends relentless industrial techno with elements of trance, hardcore, ambient and classical music into a sound that is both brutal and deeply human. His high-intensity performances are driven by raw emotion rather than perfection, creating an atmosphere that feels cathartic from the first kick drum to the final note. With acclaimed releases on labels including Arts and his own imprint Disco Inferno, I Hate Models continues to push boundaries while reminding audiences that vulnerability can be just as powerful as intensity.

DJ GIGOLA

CRYSTAL GARDEN 19:30 - 21:00

Berlin’s DJ Gigola has the rare capability to bring the best of the entire universe of electronic music together in just one banging set. Drawing from techno, trance, house, electro, breaks, and experimental sounds, she builds immersive sets that fuse emotional intensity with pulsating, dancefloor-focused energy. Sets typically include a few of her own compelling anthems but also, and this isn’t a given in DJ sets these days, plenty of tracks by some of the artists she loves the most. By doing so, she supports her peers while giving her audience access to an impressive archive of inspiring club music. Expect lots of obscure tracks alongside the occasional hum-along song. Did we mention she’s a fan of Darude’s ‘Sandstorm’?

CORE | 22:00 - 23:50

Dutch selector Job Jobse has become one of Europe’s most respected DJs by following one simple rule: never let genres get in the way of a great story. From blissful house via euphoric trance to leftfield techno, forgotten classics and unexpected curveballs, every set feels spontaneous and yet perfectly crafted. After making his name at Amsterdam’s legendary De School, Job has built a devoted global following thanks to marathon sets that blur the line between dancefloor and daydream. Whether playing at sunrise or sunset, he always creates moments of pure connection, proving that musical curiosity is still one of club culture’s greatest superpowers.

ANGER

TEAR THE ROOF UP ALESSO

21:45 - 22:45 | MAINSTAGE

Everyone knows it: it’s good to let your Anger out when you’re about to explode. And yet… many taboos around the most primal of all emotions continue to exist. However, we should feel lucky that we have many musical references to anchor our outbursts of frustration. Take Alesso’s ‘Tear the Roof Up’, a compelling dance track about letting it all go. The video for the song shows us that it’s healthy to avoid bottling up your feelings, but also that it’s important not to bother your fellow human beings when you do so. The main characters in the clip use a hammer and a crowbar to destroy a little wall that is already quite derelict. We can live with that. Can you?

JOY

I LIKE IT LIKE THAT ALESSO & NATE SMITH

21:45 - 22:45 | MAINSTAGE If Consciencia had an official soundtrack for Joy, Alesso and Nate Smith would have written it. ‘I Like It Like That’ is the musical equivalent of stumbling upon a hidden forest clearing where everyone is already dancing, smiling, and somehow aware of your name. Its carefree groove welcomes us into the dance and reminds us that happiness does not always need a grand explanation or big fancy words. Sometimes it is simply saying yes to one more boogie, one more laugh, one more unforgettable moment. Even the lyrics wink at living in the now: tomorrow may hurt, but who cares when today feels this magical? As Alesso steps onto the Mainstage, expect him to uncork the purest bottle of Joy, turning every heartbeat into a celebration worthy of the People of Tomorrow. Tomorrow’s gonna hurt, baby, I ain’t even mad!

PLANAXIS | 22:00 - 23:00

American producer Seven Lions has carved out a unique niche in electronic music by combining cinematic melodies with earth-shaking bass. Effortlessly blending melodic dubstep, trance, progressive house and psytrance influences, his productions are as emotional as they are explosive. Since breaking through with his remix of Above & Beyond’s ‘You Got To Go’, Seven Lions has built an unmistakable sound that fills arenas and festivals across the globe. His performances balance intimate, heartfelt moments with overwhelming drops, taking fans on an unforgettable emotional journey. At Tomorrowland, expect soaring melodies, breathtaking visuals and pure festival magic from start to finish.

CORE 16:00 - 18:00

Few DJs embrace musical freedom quite like Fafi Abdel Nour. The French-born, Berlin-based DJ has built a reputation for fearless sets that effortlessly jump between house, disco, techno, electro and forgotten dancefloor gems. His deep knowledge of underground music is matched by an infectious sense of fun, making every performance feel both sophisticated and wildly unpredictable. Rather than following trends, Fafi creates his own path, weaving together decades of electronic music into one seamless experience. Whether playing intimate clubs or major festivals, he invites audiences to lose expectations, trust the journey and celebrate the joy of discovering something entirely unexpected together.

EVE rY MELODY IS A PROVI nCE, A n EMOTIOnAL WOr LD UNTO ITS OW n

SOFIA CRISTO

ATMOSPHERE 19:00 - 20:30

London-based, Portugal-born DJ and producer Øtta has become one of electronic music’s most exciting rising names, delivering powerful sets that blur the lines between techno, industrial sounds, gabber, euphoric rave and a pinch of Latin American influences. Her fearless approach behind the decks combines relentless energy with emotional melodies, creating blends that hit both the heart and the dancefloor. Having earned support from leading artists and appearances at some of Europe’s biggest clubs and festivals, Øtta continues to push her sound into new territory. At Tomorrowland she’ll sign up for soaring synths, pounding kicks and a high-intensity journey that captures the spirit of modern rave culture. This is riot music!

HOUSE OF FORTUNE | 16:00 - 17:00

Spanish DJ and LGBTQI+ icon Sofia Cristo has spent years establishing herself as one of her country’s most versatile electronic artists. Known for her commanding stage presence and refined taste, she effortlessly moves between melodic techno, driving house and heavy-duty club sounds. Taking crowds on carefully crafted journeys that steadily build in intensity, she thrives on connection. Sofia Cristo brings passion, elegance and infectious energy to every performance. As she arrives at Tomorrowland, expect a vibrant soundtrack filled with hypnotic grooves, uplifting melodies and unforgettable dancefloor vibes. Chameleonic and tireless, Sofía connects with the crowd the moment she steps into the DJ booth, turning any ordinary night into a party worth staying for.