12 Best Dance Music Festivals Around the Globe in 2017

The Impact and Popularity of Dance Music Festivals

Dance music festivals have become a global phenomenon, attracting millions of music lovers from all corners of the world. These festivals offer an immersive experience that goes beyond just music, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere that is hard to replicate anywhere else. The combination of pulsating beats, stunning visuals, and a sense of community makes dance music festivals an unforgettable experience for attendees.

Defqon.1 Weekend Festival 2017

One of the reasons for the popularity of dance music festivals is the diverse lineup of artists they attract. From established DJs to up-and-coming talents, these festivals curate a lineup that caters to a wide range of musical tastes. This ensures that there is something for everyone, regardless of their preferred subgenre of electronic music.

Another factor contributing to the popularity of dance music festivals is the sense of escapism they provide. For a few days, festival-goers can leave behind their worries and immerse themselves in a world of music, dance, and celebration. The freedom to express oneself without judgment creates a unique and liberating experience that is hard to find elsewhere.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dance Music Festival

With so many dance music festivals taking place around the globe, it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to attend. To help you make the right decision, here are some factors to consider:

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1. Location: The location of the festival plays a significant role in the overall experience. Do you prefer partying on a beach, dancing in a vibrant city, or exploring a remote destination? Consider the atmosphere and surroundings that align with your preferences.

2. Lineup: Research the lineup of the festival and make sure it includes artists you are excited to see. Check if your favorite DJs or bands are performing, and explore new artists that you might discover and fall in love with.

3. Atmosphere: Each festival has its own unique atmosphere. Some are known for their wild parties, while others focus on creating a more intimate and immersive experience. Consider the vibe and energy you are looking for and choose a festival that matches your desired atmosphere.

4. Activities: Beyond the music, many festivals offer a range of activities to enhance the overall experience. From art installations and workshops to yoga sessions and wellness areas, these additional activities can add depth and variety to your festival experience.

5. Budget: Take into account the cost of tickets, accommodation, travel, and other expenses associated with attending a festival. Set a budget that you are comfortable with and choose a festival that fits within your financial means.

Now that you know what to consider when choosing a dance music festival, let's explore the top festivals in different parts of the world.

Top Dance Music Festivals in Europe

Europe is home to some of the most iconic and influential dance music festivals in the world. Here are three festivals that you don't want to miss:

1. Tomorrowland

Located in Boom, Belgium, Tomorrowland is a festival that needs no introduction. With its mesmerizing stage designs, incredible production value, and a lineup that features the biggest names in EDM, Tomorrowland is an experience like no other. Every year, thousands of festival-goers from around the globe flock to this magical wonderland to dance to their favorite beats.

Tomorrowland Belgium 2023 l DreamVille

2. Sónar Barcelona 

Sónar Barcelona is a festival that seamlessly combines music, art, and technology. Held in the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain, Sónar showcases cutting-edge electronic music in stunning venues. From intimate club nights to massive outdoor stages, Sónar offers a diverse range of experiences for music lovers.

3. Creamfields 

Located in Daresbury, England, Creamfields is one of the UK's biggest and most beloved dance music festivals. With its massive lineup of top-tier DJs and state-of-the-art production, Creamfields attracts dance music enthusiasts from all over the world. The festival offers a mix of genres, from house and techno to drum and bass, ensuring there's something for everyone.

Top Dance Music Festivals in North America

North America has a thriving dance music scene, with festivals that rival some of the biggest in the world. Here are three festivals that you should add to your bucket list:

1. Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) 

Taking place in the desert of Las Vegas, EDC is a sensory overload of lights, sound, and pure energy. With its massive stages, jaw-dropping visuals, and a lineup that features the biggest names in electronic music, EDC is an experience like no other. Dance the night away under the electric sky as you immerse yourself in this unforgettable festival.

2. Ultra Music Festival 

Held in Miami, Florida, Ultra Music Festival is a mecca for EDM fans. The festival takes over the city for three days, with multiple stages showcasing a diverse range of electronic music genres. From mainstage headliners to underground acts, Ultra Music Festival offers a truly immersive and electrifying experience.

3. Movement Electronic Music Festival

Detroit, Michigan, is the birthplace of techno, and Movement Electronic Music Festival pays homage to the city's rich musical heritage. Known as one of the most respected electronic music festivals in the world, Movement showcases a lineup of techno and house pioneers, as well as emerging talents. The festival takes place in the historic Hart Plaza, offering stunning views of the Detroit River.

Top Dance Music Festivals in Asia

Asia has seen a rapid rise in the popularity of dance music festivals in recent years. Here are three festivals that are putting Asia on the map:

1. Sunburn Goa

 Located in the beach paradise of Goa, India, Sunburn is Asia's largest electronic music festival. The festival attracts thousands of music lovers from around the world who come to experience the fusion of beats and culture. With its stunning beachside setting, world-class DJs, and vibrant atmosphere, Sunburn is a must-visit festival for any electronic music enthusiast.

Sunburn Goa - 2023

2. ZoukOut 

Held in Singapore, ZoukOut is an outdoor dance music festival that takes place on the sandy shores of Sentosa Island. The festival features a lineup of international and regional DJs, as well as stunning stage designs and visuals. Dance the night away under the stars as you soak in the electrifying atmosphere of ZoukOut.

3. Wonderfruit

Wonderfruit is not just a music festival; it's a celebration of art, music, and sustainable living. Located in Pattaya, Thailand, Wonderfruit offers a unique blend of music, art installations, wellness activities, and eco-conscious initiatives. The festival promotes a sense of community and aims to inspire positive change through its immersive and thought-provoking experiences.

Top Dance Music Festivals in South America

South America is known for its vibrant music scene, and dance music festivals play a significant role in showcasing the region's rich musical heritage. Here are three festivals that should be on your radar:

1. Rock in Rio

While primarily known as a rock festival, Rock in Rio also features a dedicated electronic music stage that attracts some of the biggest names in the industry. Held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Rock in Rio offers a diverse lineup that caters to a wide range of musical tastes. Dance to the beats of electronic music legends as you soak in the energetic atmosphere of this iconic festival.

2. Creamfields Buenos Aires 

Creamfields, one of the UK's most renowned dance music festivals, has made its way to Buenos Aires, Argentina. The festival brings together a lineup of international and local DJs, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. With its stunning stage designs and world-class production, Creamfields Buenos Aires is a must-visit festival for any dance music enthusiast.

3. Storyland 

Located in Cartagena, Colombia, Storyland is a festival that combines music, art, and culture in a stunning beachside setting. The festival brings together a diverse lineup of electronic music artists, ranging from mainstream acts to underground talents. Dance to the beats of your favorite DJs as you discover the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Colombia.

Top Dance Music Festivals in Australia

Australia has a thriving dance music scene, with festivals that showcase both local and international talent. Here are three festivals that are putting Australia on the map:

1. Splendour in the Grass 

Held in Byron Bay, New South Wales, Splendour in the Grass is one of Australia's most beloved music festivals. While not exclusively a dance music festival, Splendour in the Grass features a dedicated electronic music stage that showcases a mix of local and international talent. With its picturesque location and diverse lineup, Splendour in the Grass offers a unique festival experience.

2. Stereosonic 

Stereosonic is Australia's premier dance music festival, featuring an impressive lineup of EDM and house music artists. The festival takes place in multiple cities across the country, allowing music lovers from all regions to experience the magic of Stereosonic. With its high-energy performances and stunning production, Stereosonic is a must-attend festival for any dance music enthusiast.

3. Rainbow Serpent 

Rainbow Serpent is not just a music festival; it's a celebration of art, music, and self-expression. Held in Lexton, Victoria, Rainbow Serpent offers a unique and immersive experience that combines electronic music with workshops, art installations, and interactive performances. The festival promotes a sense of community and connection, creating an inclusive and transformative experience for attendees.

Emerging Dance Music Festivals to Watch Out for in 2017

In addition to the established festivals, there are also several emerging dance music festivals that are gaining recognition and popularity. Here are three festivals to watch out for in 2017:

1. Lost Village 

Located in Lincolnshire, England, Lost Village is a festival that takes you on a journey into a mystical and immersive world. The festival combines electronic music with theater, art installations, and interactive experiences, creating a unique and otherworldly atmosphere. Lose yourself in the enchanting world of Lost Village and discover a new kind of festival experience.

2. DGTL 

DGTL is a sustainable dance music festival that takes place in multiple cities around the world, including Amsterdam, Barcelona, and São Paulo. The festival combines a lineup of cutting-edge electronic music with innovative sustainability initiatives, aiming to create a positive impact on the environment. DGTL offers a unique and conscious festival experience that combines music, art, and sustainability.

0:10 / 1:03:59 Bonobo | Boiler Room x DGTL Amsterdam 2023

3. Melt Festival 

Located in Ferropolis, Germany, Melt Festival is known for its stunning industrial backdrop and eclectic lineup. The festival showcases a mix of electronic, indie, and alternative music, attracting a diverse crowd of music lovers. With its unique setting and carefully curated lineup, Melt Festival offers an immersive and unforgettable experience.

The Global Dance Music Festival Experience

Dance music festivals have become a global phenomenon, capturing the hearts and minds of music lovers around the world. From the iconic stages of Tomorrowland to the sandy beaches of Sunburn Goa, these festivals offer a unique and immersive experience that goes beyond just music. They create a sense of community, celebration, and freedom that is hard to find elsewhere.

No matter where you are in the world, there's a dance music festival waiting to ignite your passion for electronic beats. So grab your friends, pack your bags, and get ready to dance the night away at these unforgettable events. Let the music guide you as you groove into the beat and create memories that will last a lifetime.