Awakenings has been on top of our bucket list for a few years, but for some reason it was only at this years’ edition that I finally managed to experience its magic. And let me tell, it is everything you can imagine and more. Going solo for its first day seemed like quite a mission if I am being honest, when I read the news of it being completely sold out – with an expectancy of 119,000 people throughout the weekend, I did start to agree with some of my friends who told me I was crazy for going by myself but I am so glad I did.
Despite having attended only the first of three days, and still to experience all extra activities around its camping site, I can tell you this: do it! The whole production, sound system, festival layout and facilities as a whole truly made the festival stand out from all others I’ve experienced in the UK and beyond. From the moment you walk into the woods and start hearing the fist hint of music as you approach the entrance, it is not enough to prepare you to how magnificent Area V is as you’re crossing from the Techno Bridge. On Friday we got to see Pegassi, Patrick Mason, I Hate Models & a bit of DJ Gigola b2b Funk Tribu, unfortunatelly missing the opening by Saidah and a wicked closing by Amelie Lens.
Another highlight was Area B, which was the main point for all tech-house heads with a mint minimal led installation that truly added to the visuals. Sitting right beside the lake of Victoria in Hilvarenbeek, this arena was home to the likes of AAT, M-High b2b Sidney Charles, Cloonee, Wade, East End Dubs b2b Vintage Culture & Gordo. The crowd went absolutely nuts when Cloonee dropped what might be one of the biggest anthems released in recent years, you can see some of its action via our Instagram below:
That is not to say other stages weren’t good. Area X served as a massive warehouse with some of the best raw, hypnotic techno throughout the weekend with the likes of Grace Dahl, Len Faki, Ignez, Freddy K and Ben Klock to name a few. I managed to spend some time dancing to Elli Acula, followed by MARRØN and both did not disappoint – if only I could be in multiple places at once.
I briefly managed to sneak out to Area A for a bit of Future.666 b2b ÜBERKIKZ, in one of its most outstanding open air stages that could be seen from afar in the night. Although not having spend much time in the other stages, there was a lot more to be seen from Area C and H.
For the weekend two more stages were added, including Stelz Boat which had ravers dancing in the waters of lake Victoria for special DJs set throughout both days. We only joined the festival on Friday so I guess that leaves an excuse to come back next year for the full weekend experience? Who knows. Although very brief for the magnitude of the festival, I truly enjoyed my first time at Awakenings and cannot fault having attended on my own either, a day to remember.
Tickets for Awakenings 2027 are already on sale, if its also in your must-do list I highly recommend securing your place already.
