As the days stretch out and spring settles in, there’s a familiar buzz building. Festival season is on the horizon — and for techno lovers, there’s a brand new name to get excited about: UpClose. Taking place on 17 and 18 May in the scenic surroundings of Spaarnwoude Park, this debut edition isn’t about chasing big names. It’s about stripping things back to what really matters — connection, curation, and the raw pulse of proper techno.
Awakenings, renowned for its spectacular productions and unparalleled dedication to the techno genre, has been a staple in the electronic music scene for over two decades. Their flagship event, the Awakenings Summer Festival in Hilvarenbeek, is the largest techno festival in the world, drawing crowds from all corners of the globe. However, with the launch of Awakenings Upclose, the organisation is taking a bold step to reinvent its spring offering.
A New Direction for a Legendary Festival
Tim Middelesch, Awakenings’ brand manager, explains the vision behind Upclose: “As a counterpart, we seek much more intimacy with Awakenings Upclose in Spaarnwoude. Standing in the middle of that dance floor, being carried away by that energy for hours, being absorbed in that feeling together. Awakenings Upclose is all about that feeling, but still with the wow effect you expect from us, with an impressive production, the best sound and the best techno artists. With this festival we are really going to do something different than we have done at this location in recent years.”
The site has been completely reimagined with new stages and layouts, featuring innovative designs and light art installations that promise a fresh experience even for seasoned Awakenings attendees. This smaller, more intimate setting is perfect for fostering a deeper connection between the artists and the audience.
Highlights of Awakenings Upclose
UpClose is all about fresh sounds and boundary-pushing sets, with a lineup that blends familiar faces with a wave of exciting newcomers. More than 25 artists will be making their festival debut, giving the spotlight to rising talent you’ll want to keep an eye on. Joris Voorn is set to take us on a cosmic journey with his “Trip to the Galaxy” set, while Nina Kraviz will switch things up with a house set that’s bound to turn heads.
Special back-to-backs and live collabs are another highlight — think Speedy J with Stranger, Colin Benders with R.O.D., and Gigi FM teaming up with Amoral and Beste Hira. For the harder end of the spectrum, names like 999999999, Rebekah and I Hate Models will bring the full force of their signature sound. And if you’re curious about who’s next, don’t miss debut sets from Marlon Hofstede (aka DJ Daddy Trance), Funk Assault, Azir, and Marie Montexier — each bringing a fresh spark to the UpClose experience.
Don’t Miss the After Hours at Bret
The experience doesn’t end when the sun sets. Awakenings After Hours at Bret ensures that the party continues into the night on May 17 and 18. Bret will transform into the ultimate afterparty destination, offering the essential nightcap to your festival weekend. It’s the perfect place to keep the vibes alive and extend the euphoric feeling of Upclose.
Looking Ahead to Summer
While Upclose is set to redefine the spring festival scene, don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Awakenings Summer Festival in Hilvarenbeek. Known as the world’s largest techno festival, this summer edition promises another unforgettable experience with its massive scale and star-studded lineup.
Join the Techno Revolution
Tickets for Awakenings Upclose are already on sale through the Awakenings website. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the scene, Awakenings Upclose is your chance to be part of something truly unique. Get ready to immerse yourself in the purest essence of techno, connect with fellow music lovers, and create lasting memories in an intimate and innovative setting.
