Awakenings Festival is back and bigger than ever, taking over the iconic Spaarnwoude park in Hilvarenbeek this July 11–13. Since its humble beginnings in 1997 at Amsterdam’s Westergasfabriek, this Dutch festival has grown into one of Europe’s most prestigious techno gatherings. With seven stages, 90+ artists, and a lineup that’ll have you questioning your life choices by Sunday evening, this is what peak festival season looks like. Here are the 10 acts that’ll define your weekend (and your Instagram stories).
1. Adriatique
Swiss duo Adriatique open the list with their signature blend of deep, melodic techno and house. Renowned for seamless transitions and emotionally charged sets, expect tears, euphoria, and that moment when thousands of people collectively lose their minds to the same breakdown.
2. Charlotte de Witte
The queen of acid techno returns with her signature pounding beats and razor-sharp production. Charlotte’s sets are a masterclass in energy and precision, guaranteed to send the crowd into a frenzy.
3. Richie Hawtin
Hawtin’s been pushing boundaries since before half the lineup was born, and his live audio-visual experiences remain utterly unmatched. This isn’t just a set – it’s a masterclass in why techno will never die. Expect sleek, innovative production that pushes the boundaries of the genre.
4. Dixon B2B Jimi Jules
When Berlin’s most sophisticated selector teams up with Zurich’s groove merchant, magic happens. This Innervisions family reunion promises hours of pure dancefloor bliss – expect deep cuts, unexpected edits, and the kind of seamless flow that makes other DJs weep into their monitor speakers.
5. DJ Gigola
Berlin-based DJ Gigola joins Awakenings line-up with a fearless fusion of techno, trance, and experimental sounds. Her unpredictable sets are a fresh injection of energy into the lineup, successfully blending boundaries between Techon and Pop music.
6. VTSS
Known for her high-BPM rave energy and acid-infused techno, VTSS is a powerhouse making waves on the underground scene. Her Awakenings set promises to be an explosive highlight.
7. Ben Böhmer (Live)
For those moments when you want to catch your breath, Ben Böhmer’s melodic live set offers lush, emotive soundscapes blending house and techno, perfect for sunset vibes.
8. Estella Boersma
Dutch DJ and producer Estella Boersma brings a fresh, genre-bending mix of techno, electro, and breakbeat. Estella’s sets combine underground edge with polished production, a must-see for those hunting new sounds.
9. 6EJOU
Keep your eyes on this one. The mysterious producer has been crafting some seriously hypnotic techno that’s been doing the rounds in all the right DJ bags. Less is definitely more with 6EJOU – expect stripped-back grooves that’ll have you questioning reality.
10. Funk Tribu
Sometimes you just need someone to absolutely rinse the dancefloor, and Funk Tribu delivers every single time. Come for the funk, stay for the complete loss of control.
Awakenings 2025 is shaping up as a perfect blend of techno’s legends and its freshest innovators. From Adriatique’s emotional mastery to VTSS’s rave brutality, there’s enough to keep you dancing for 3 nights.