ADE 2025: Records, Rain, No Sleep – Unforgettable Days and Nights at the Amsterdam Dance Event
When Amsterdam Becomes the Capital of Beats
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ADE 2025: Records, Rain, No Sleep - Unforgettable Days and Nights at the Amsterdam Dance Event · Source: Sacha Hoebergen
ADE 2025 is history, and it was undoubtedly an unforgettable edition. This is not only because Amsterdam once again became the global center of electronic music during these five days, but also because the festival set new standards with around 600,000 visitors and more than 3,500 artists. With over 1,200 events at more than 300 locations – from large halls to intimate underground spots – ADE 2025 showed how vibrant, diverse, and creative the electronic music scene is, even 30 years after its inception. One thing is certain: the anniversary edition of ADE will take place from October 21 to 25, 2026. It is set to be the biggest celebration of electronic music culture in the festival’s history. I can’t wait!
ADE 2025: A Look Back at Five Days of Exceptional Events in Amsterdam
Despite the impressive figures, ADE 2025 also had its uncomfortable sides. Amsterdam showed its stormy, rainy side, making spontaneous evenings and longer walks between venues difficult. The new ADE Lab venue impressed with its exciting architecture, modern concept, and well-thought-out workshop program. However, it was located well outside the city center. This made it almost impossible to quickly travel between meetings, panels, or sessions. Nevertheless, the turnout was enormous. I even had the opportunity to test new tools, hardware, and software, some of which will be officially unveiled in the coming months.
In terms of content, this year’s festival also offered an overwhelming program. During the panels, renowned figures such as Chris Liebing, ANNA, Eris Drew, Skepta, Chris Stussy, and KI/KI explored the diversity and global scope of the electronic music scene. Industry giants such as Spotify, SoundCloud, Epic Games, Sony Music, and Tomorrowland also contributed their perspectives on the future of technology, music, and club culture. Intense discussions about creative processes, AI tools in the studio, and the economic situation of the industry took place at the new Pro area at the Rosewood in particular. Anyone moving among the mix of artists, labels, developers, and brands could literally feel the pulse of a constantly reinventing scene.
ADE 2025: More Visitors, More Diversity, More Music
The musical spectrum was once again extremely broad, ranging from major events such as Awakenings at the new SugarFactory venue and Klangkuenstler at the Ziggo Dome to experimental nights at Garage Noord, SkateCafe, and Lofi. ADE 2025 also made its mark artistically. The “PRAISE” concept by Honey Dijon and Audio Obscura in the Nieuwe Kerk combined queer culture with spiritual club aesthetics – a highlight that will likely remain in the memories of many visitors for a long time.
Finally, the focus turned to what’s coming next: the 30th anniversary of ADE in 2026. The organizers plan to celebrate with not only a festival but also a series of special collaborations, exhibitions, and musical highlights. Since 1996, ADE has stood for innovation, networking, and the cultural rise of electronic music. After ADE 2025 comes the biggest birthday party the electronic music world has ever seen. One thing is for sure: I will be back at the starting line.
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