Psytrance — short for psychedelic trance — is characterised by its driving BPM (typically 140–150), layered synthesizer melodies, and otherworldly sound design. Rooted in the Goa trance movement of the early 1990s, psytrance festivals are often held in natural settings — forests, beaches, mountains — creating a symbiosis between music and environment. From full-on to darkpsy to progressive, the genre's subcultures offer distinctly different sonic journeys.
The Gardens of Babylon Festival 2026
Mar 28, 2026 – Mar 29, 2026
The Gardens of Babylon Festival is an international movement connecting people through electronic music, spirituality, and immersive visual experiences. Known for its vibrant community and an extensive program of music, workshops, and spiritual activities, it fosters an atmosphere of love, openness, and self-expression.
Awakenings Upclose 2026
May 16, 2026 – May 17, 2026
Awakenings Upclose is an intimate techno festival held at Spaarnwoude-park in the Netherlands, designed to foster a closer connection between artists and the crowd through dancefloor-focused experiences. This event offers a more personal, stripped-back alternative to the brand's massive flagship festivals, emphasizing underground sounds and immersive rave conditions.
Ground Zero Festival 2026
Aug 15, 2026 – Aug 16, 2026
Ground Zero Festival is Europe's only all-night hardcore event, celebrated for its dark atmosphere and intense harder styles. The 2025 edition marked the legendary festival's final chapter after 20 years of history at Recreatieplas Bussloo.
Transmission Netherlands 2026
Nov 28, 2026 – Nov 28, 2026
Transmission Netherlands is a premier indoor trance music festival held at the GelreDome in Arnhem, known for being one of the world's largest 'one-room' dance events. The festival is celebrated for its breathtaking audiovisual production, combining immersive storytelling and massive laser shows with performances by elite international DJs.
