If you’ve found your way here, you probably already know what EDM festivals are all about. But just in case, EDM stands for “Electronic Dance Music,” and these events are known for being truly electrifying experiences. They can last anywhere from a few days to a whole week. They showcase a mix of both new and famous artists, from top headliners to hidden gems from the underground scene.
So, which EDM festivals are the biggest hits in the world right now? Buckle up and get ready to dance!
**TOMORROWLAND**
First up, Tomorrowland is more than just a music festival; it’s an icon of an entire subculture. Every summer, it takes over Boom, Belgium, drawing nearly half a million partygoers. With an astonishing number of events, sometimes reaching into the thousands, Tomorrowland isn’t just about the music—it’s about the unique vibe that celebrates freedom and the joy of life.
**SUNBURN FESTIVAL**
Sunburn is India’s premier EDM festival, typically lighting up the beaches of Goa. As you’d expect, it features multiple stages hosting different electronic music performances at night and various creative workshops during the day. About 300,000 to 350,000 attendees flock to this festival, and its popularity even led to a relocation to Delhi in 2018 due to overwhelming demand.
**UNTOLD**
Heading to Eastern Europe, Untold takes place in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Much like Tomorrowland, it changes its stage designs yearly, offering a fresh experience every time. With around 80,000 to 100,000 visitors, it holds the title of the largest EDM event in Eastern Europe, drawing fans from across the continent and beyond.
**ELECTRIC DAISY CARNIVAL**
Electric Daisy Carnival in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, is an extraordinary blend of vintage and futuristic elements. Held on an expansive carnival ground, it features everything from carousels and playground rides to breathtaking light shows and top-notch pyrotechnics, alongside some of the most renowned headliners globally. While the festival sometimes changes locations, Las Vegas remains its primary home, hosting 100,000 to 150,000 visitors for an unforgettable experience.
**BURNING MAN**
Though calling Burning Man a festival might downplay its significance, it is an immersive cultural, societal, and philosophical adventure. Held annually in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, it embraces principles like Radical Inclusion and Diversity, creating a distinctive experience for all who attend. If you’re ready for a desert adventure, this one’s for you.
**COACHELLA**
Coachella may not focus solely on EDM, but it still finds plenty of room for electronic music within its broader music and arts offerings. Located in California’s Coachella Valley, the festival features multiple stages, art installations, campgrounds, and vintage markets. Big names like Daft Punk, Zedd, Tiesto, and Diplo have also headlined this iconic event, ensuring it remains a must-visit for electronic music enthusiasts.
**THE ULTRA EDM FESTIVAL**
Known for its global presence, the Ultra EDM festival shines brighter in some locations than others. Here are two of its standout editions:
**ULTRA MIAMI**
Held in Florida, USA, Ultra Miami attracts over 70,000 EDM fans annually. With more than seven stages, it showcases both emerging and established artists, uniting everyone in a shared celebration of EDM culture.
**ULTRA JAPAN**
Traveling from Florida to Tokyo, Ultra Japan stands out with state-of-the-art visual elements. Tickets sell out rapidly, prompting frequent warnings from organizers against purchasing from untrustworthy sources. The festival draws over 120,000 attendees from around the globe.
**MYSTERYLAND**
Mysteryland is a hallmark of the EDM scene in Haarlemmermeer, Netherlands. The festival’s natural surroundings—lush forests, hills, rivers, and ponds—create a fairytale-like atmosphere. Having started in 1993, it’s one of the oldest and most storied EDM festivals worldwide.
**DJAKARTA WAREHOUSE PROJECT (DWP)**
Located in Jakarta, Indonesia, the Djakarta Warehouse Project (formerly the “Blowfish Warehouse Project”) welcomes about 100,000 festival-goers each year. Once Asia’s largest EDM festival, it continues to deliver a unique and thrilling experience.
**CREAMFIELDS**
What began as a modest day-long event in England, Creamfields has grown significantly. Now hosting over 70,000 attendees in Daresbury, it’s recognized for its high-quality programs and lineups, making it a favorite despite not being the largest festival.
There are countless other festivals across the globe, including Cirque Magique in Belgium, London’s 51st State Festival, World Club Dome in Germany, and many more. It’s time to dust off your glowing rave gear, rally the party squad, and plan for an epic summer festival season. See you where the celebration never stops!
