Awakenings has been a beacon of exceptional techno festivals for over 27 years, renowned for its spectacular light shows, impeccable sound quality, and grand stages. Originating in 1997 at the Gashouder in Amsterdam, it has evolved into a global phenomenon, attracting both visitors and artists from all corners of the world. This year’s Awakenings Festival, held from July 5th to 7th in the picturesque Hilvarenbeek, continued this legacy with a three-day techno extravaganza that captivated nearly 100,000 attendees from over 100 nationalities.
The Music & Stages
Awakenings Festival 2024 was a paradise for techno lovers like myself, offering a lineup that left me in awe and stages that felt like a second home over the three-day event. As I wandered through the festival grounds, I was constantly drawn to the pulsating energy of the music and the vibrant crowds.
The outdoor mainstages, V & W, were the heartbeats of the festival. Standing amidst the massive crowd, feeling the bass reverberate through my chest, and watching the mesmerising light shows was an unforgettable experience. The sheer scale of these stages was breathtaking, and the visuals were unlike anything I had ever seen. Headliners like Amelie Lens, Indira Paganotto, Adriatique, Stephan Bodzin, Tale of Us and Nina Kraviz owned these stages, their sets weaving a sonic tapestry that had us dancing from day to night.
But it wasn’t just the big stages that captured my heart. The intimate rave stage hidden in the forest became my sanctuary. Surrounded by trees and enveloped in sound, it felt like a magical escape from reality. The natural setting, combined with the beats, created an exhilarating and surreal atmosphere. Here, I discovered some of my favourite sets of the festival, losing myself in the music and the moment.
The variety of stages meant there was always something new to explore. The indoor stages, in particular, offered a unique atmosphere, blending the thrill of emerging talents with the mastery of legendary names. This mix created an irresistible pull, and I constantly moved between stages, eager to soak in the full spectrum of music and savour each unique set. The seamless transition from one musical journey to another kept my energy high and my enthusiasm unwavering.
One of the standout aspects of this year’s festival was the incredible female talent on display. Seeing Honey Dijon, Mha Iri, and Giorgia Angiuli perform for the first time at Awakenings was inspiring. Their energy and skill behind the decks were palpable, and they commanded the crowd with ease. Familiar faces like ANNA and Nina Kraviz delivered powerful performances that reminded me why they are such beloved figures in the techno community.
The special back-to-back sets were another highlight. Adam Beyer & Joseph Capriati’s synergy on stage was electric, and their seamless transitions kept the energy high. Kölsch & Kevin de Vries brought a unique dynamic, their contrasting styles blending perfectly to create something truly special. These collaborations added an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to the festival.
The debut performances from artists like Nico Moreno, Mochakk, and Vintage Culture brought a thrilling new energy to the festival. Their sets were some of the most talked about, and it was clear they had made a strong impression on everyone, myself included. It was also a treat to witness Rødhåd and Umek celebrating their 25th appearance at Awakenings, adding a sense of history and continuity to the festival.
The music and stages at Awakenings Festival 2024 provided a rich and immersive experience. Each performance, each stage, had its own unique vibe and energy, creating a symphony of sound and emotion that was truly unforgettable. Every moment felt like a personal journey through the very best of techno, from the massive outdoor spectacles to the cosy forest raves. This festival wasn’t just about the music; it was about the connections made, the memories created, and the feeling of being part of something truly special.
The Campgrounds
Camping at Awakenings was an adventure in itself. The festival offered two distinct camping experiences that catered to all types of festival-goers. The Grand Camping was a hive of activities, and the energy from the festival grounds was carried over. Pre-set tents, lodges, and ample space for personal tents made it easy to set up and dive right into the action. The atmosphere was buzzing, with new friends being made over breakfast combos from the Koffiesalon or while lounging at the Meller Beach.
For those looking for a bit more luxury and tranquility, the Relax Resort was a dream. It offered everything from luxury pre-set tents with beds and electricity to a dedicated wellness area. The perfect blend of relaxation and festival excitement provided a well-rounded experience.
The camping areas were more than just a place to sleep; they were vibrant community hubs. With engaging activities like DJ workshops by House of Beats, invigorating buddy workouts, deep house yoga sessions, and even a cacao ceremony, there was always something to keep us entertained and revitalised. The vintage clothing sales offered a fun way to find unique festival outfits, while the beaches provided the perfect spots for chilling out during the day. The night café became a cosy spot to unwind, play games, and make lasting memories with new friends as night fell.
The Festival Grounds and Activities
Awakenings Festival was a feast for the senses. Beyond the incredible music, the festival grounds were adorned with captivating art installations that added a touch of magic to the experience. The “Watercolor” waterfall by Estranged Studio was a personal favourite, with its dynamic, colourful flow that seemed almost alive. Lisa Bast’s “OMGEVINGSBEWUSTZIJN” light pillars created a mesmerising space that felt both serene and powerful.
The food and drink options were plentiful and diverse, catering to all tastes. I particularly enjoyed the Beyond Meat burgers and the refreshing organic banana smoothies from Bionana. Brand activations like the BUD tech house stage and the Red Bull cocktail lounge added an extra layer of fun, allowing us to enjoy great music with a refreshing drink in hand.
The Thoughtful Details
Awakenings Festival’s commitment to sustainability was evident everywhere. Every effort was made to minimise environmental impact, from the deposit recycling system for cups, cans, and bottles to the 100% vegetarian menu. The smart energy plan, which included using green diesel and renewable energy sources, showed a genuine commitment to making the festival as eco-friendly as possible.
Travel to the festival was encouraged to be as sustainable as possible, with bike rides and public transport options heavily promoted. The partnership with Trees for All to offset CO2 emissions was another commendable initiative, highlighting the festival’s dedication to protecting the environment.
Inclusivity was also a major focus. The festival provided extensive facilities for people with disabilities, ensuring that everyone could enjoy the event to the fullest. The Social Safety Hub and the dedicated teams walking the grounds were a reassuring presence, creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.
A Final Word
Awakenings Festival 2024 was more than just a music festival; it was a vibrant community where people from all walks of life came together to celebrate techno music, art, and culture. There wasn’t a single stage where I didn’t find myself connecting with new friends and feeling the collective love and energy of the crowd. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone dancing and sharing in the joyous experience.
To conclude, Awakenings Festival 2024 was a masterclass in festival organisation, offering an unparalleled blend of music, art, and community. It set a new standard for sustainability and inclusivity in the festival scene, making it an unforgettable experience for all who attended. Whether you’re a seasoned raver or a first-time festival-goer, Awakenings is an event that should be on everyone’s bucket list. As the excitement of this summer lingers, mark your calendars for the upcoming Awakenings events during Amsterdam Dance Event this October, where the magic continues at the iconic Gashouder and the grand Ziggo Dome. Lineups for all seven Awakenings ADE events have been released, tickets are selling fast, get yours now!
