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Interview
SUNSHINE RACKET: FROM SOLE ACOUSTIC GUITAR TO CAFE DEL MAR

Tomek Mossakowski, performing under the name Sunshine Racket, is a Warsaw-based DJ and producer whose musical trajectory began with a sole acoustic guitar. In the beginning he was mentored by his father, a former band musician. Later he transitioned from early string compositions to electronic production, citing the influence of house pioneers such as Marshall Jefferson and Roger Sanchez.

His discography is characterized by a fusion of disco, soul, jazz, and afro-house. Tomek describes his creative process as one of rigorous iteration, often involving hundreds of exports and thousands of listens before a track reaches its final form.

Beyond the studio, his career is defined by a decade-long international tenure as the primary musical provider for Oriflame Cosmetics. In addition to this work, his live performances have reached global stages, most notably at the legendary Café del Mar in Abu Dhabi, a milestone he identifies as a definitive moment in his professional life.

Do you remember the exact moment (or person) that made you think: “I want to produce my own music”? What was it?

When I was young, we had an acoustic guitar at home. My dad used to play in the band. He taught me to play the first songs on this guitar. Then I started to make my own songs.
After that, later, when I saw stars like Marshall Jefferson, Roger Sanchez, I knew that I wanted to produce music like that.

SUNSHINE RACKET on The House of Essenza Launch Event

Photo: SUNSHINE RACKET on The House of Essenza Launch Event

Who or what shaped your sound in the beginning and what influences you now that might surprise people?

At the beginning, my dad, my brother, my cousin, showed me a lot of great music, a lot of great tracks, and they shaped my sound. Right now, I think journeys and trips around the world that I have, influence me a lot.

What’s one mistake you made while producing or mixing that taught you the biggest lesson?

I’m making a lot of mistakes. Every mistake is a lesson. You have to make mistakes to be better. That’s the process.

Be honest, how do you personally know when a track is finished? And how many exports usually come before that moment?

I don’t know exactly when my track is finished. When I listen to it like thousands of times, when I export it hundreds of times, and tweaking it happy to be here, happy to be here. That is the sign for me to stop, and then I know the track is finished.

In your opinion, what separates a good song from a forgettable one?

I think great song is when you love to listen to it over and over again. When you have great memories with the song, when you feel really great when you’re listening to it.

What makes a DJ set truly great for you, track selection, flow, crowd connection, or something else?

All the things make a DJ set great, but I think when you feel it in the air, when you feel it inside your body, when you want to move, when you want to dance, when you feel good, then it’s a great DJ set.

Photo: SUNSHINE RACKET on The House of Essenza Launch Event

Photo: SUNSHINE RACKET on The House of Essenza Launch Event

Was there a specific night, event, or person that pushed you to step behind the decks and start DJing seriously?

The moment that pushed me to step behind the decks was in the early 2000, when I was listening to Hauserka and The Radio Stasia. There were two legends Seb Skalski, owner of Specula Records, and DJ Klasse, who had great parties at that time, import in Picarnia.

When I was listening to them, I knew that I want to be like that. I want to be a DJ and I want to play at the parties.

What’s one unexpected or unforgettable moment you’ve had while playing live?

My unforgettable moment was when I was playing legendary Café del Mar in Abu Dhabi. The atmosphere there, this place, and people, and everything was fantastic. That was, the unforgettable moment of my life.

March 12, 2026

Stories
THE AIRPLANE IN THE 70’S HAD A DANCE FLOOR

In the 1970s, flying had a groove.

Some airlines, most famously Air Canada, turned their Boeing 747 upper decks into in-flight discos. These lounge spaces featured mirrored walls, a bar, music, and even a dance floor with a DJ booth, where disco, funk, and early house tracks kept passengers dancing at 30,000 feet.

Long-haul flights became social experiences that captured the era’s glamorous, carefree spirit. Over time, these airborne dance floors disappeared, replaced by more seats and higher revenue, but the legend of flying discos lives on.

February 19, 2026

Interview
INTERVIEW WITH FLEANGER: AI CAN’T REPLACE EMOTION OR INTENTION

Fleanger is the stage name of the Tel Aviv born, Berlin based music producer and DJ. Fleanger musical story is interesting one. He started with drawing and graffiti. He is classily trained pianist, whos curiosity and desire to experiment with music led him to electronic music production.

When you first started producing music, what initially sparked your interest, and what pushed you to take that first step into music production?

Music was always there for me before it was “production.” I started with drawing, graffiti, and piano, ways to express things I couldn’t really explain in words. At some point, I realized music could hold emotion, movement, and story all at once. The first real push into production came from curiosity and solitude: sitting alone, experimenting with sounds, and discovering that I could build entire worlds from a blank project.

Which artists, genres, or moments influenced your sound early on, and how have those influences evolved into your current Deep House style?

Early on, I was influenced by melodic electronic music, deep house, progressive, and artists who focused more on feeling than function. I was drawn to long journeys, emotional chord progressions, and subtle grooves. Over time, those influences became more refined, less about complexity and more about intention. Today, my Deep House sound is slower, deeper, and more introspective, shaped by space, restraint, and emotional honesty.

Where do you usually find inspiration today, does it come from everyday life, travel, emotions, or from within the studio itself?

Mostly from life itself. Travel, cities, quiet moments, conversations, memories, even uncertainty. Berlin, Tel Aviv, and in-between places have all left their mark on my sound. Sometimes inspiration hits in the studio, but usually it starts outside, the studio is where I translate it into sound.

 

Can you share a bit about your production setup? What software and tools do you mainly work with, and how important are they in shaping your sound?

I mainly work with Cubase and FL Studio, alongside a small, carefully chosen selection of synths and plugins. I don’t believe gear defines the sound, decisions do. Tools are important, but they’re just instruments. The real shaping comes from how you listen, when you stop, and what you choose not to add.

Looking back so far, are there any releases, milestones, or accomplishments in your career that feel especially meaningful to you?

Releasing music on my own label and seeing people connect emotionally to tracks means a lot. Also, building long-term collaborations, receiving support from artists I admire, and slowly shaping a clear artistic identity, those moments matter more to me than numbers.

As a DJ, are there any performances or moments behind the decks that stand out as particularly special or memorable for you?

The most special moments are when the room goes quiet in its own way, when people stop talking and just feel. Small, intimate floors often leave the deepest impact. It’s not about peak time energy, but about shared presence.

What would you say is the most challenging part of the music production process, and how do you usually work through those moments?

Knowing when a track is finished. Letting go is hard. When I’m stuck, I step away. Time, distance, and silence are often the best tools to regain perspective.

On the flip side, what is the most enjoyable or rewarding part of producing music for you?

That moment when everything suddenly aligns, when a melody feels honest and the groove breathes naturally. It feels like uncovering something that already existed, rather than forcing it into being.

What is your perspective on the growing role of AI in music production, and where do you see its place within electronic and Deep House music?

AI can be a powerful tool for exploration, workflow, and inspiration, but not for replacing emotion or intention. In Deep House especially, the human element is essential. AI should support creativity, not define it.

M-Sol DEEP represents a refined side of the Deep House scene. What does being part of this label mean to you as an artist?

Being part of M-Sol DEEP feels like being understood. It represents depth, quality, and musical maturity, values I strongly connect with. I’m grateful to be part of a label that respects the emotional side of Deep House and gives space for artists to express themselves authentically.

February 13, 2026

Stories
VINTAGE IBIZA: A GIMPSE INTO THE 70’S and 80’S

Step back to the 1970s and ’80s, when Ibiza was the ultimate hippy island—bohemian, free-spirited, and alive with music, art, and sun-soaked beaches.

Seduced by its bohemian spirit, hippies poured into Ibiza in the 1970s, turning the island into a heaven for musicians and artist who built free-spirited communities in abandoned farmlands, all seeking liberty and love.

Vacationers in Ibiza, 1975 / Gianni Ferrari

Hippies in front of Bause Bar in Ibiza, 1970 / Ullstein bild / Getty

A group of hippies at a café in Ibiza, 1972 / Ullstein bild

Disco venues soon emerged, led by the iconic Club 66, where every night energetic young revelers filled the floor and danced long into the night.

Club 66 in Ibiza, 1978 / Fairfax Media Archives

As Ibiza’s allure grew, celebrities followed – most famously Wham!, who arrived in 1983 to film and record Club Tropicana, capturing the island’s carefree energy for global audience.

Wham! in Ibiza while recording Club Tropicana, 1983 FG / Bauer-Griffin

From the 1980s onward, Ibiza became a true hotspot – welcoming VIP travelers, jet-setters, relaxed vacationers, musicians, and Hollywood stars alike. The island’s open, carefree spirit turned it into one of the world’s defining summer destinations.

Ibiza in the 80’s

Most visitors rented or bought charming fincas renovated by skilled architects, while others stayed in small local hotels.

In the 1980s, Café del Mar in Ibiza became iconic for its chillout vibe, sunset views, and eclectic music. It was main gathering spot for travelers, artists, and musicians.

In the 1980s, travelers were seeking the relaxed magical atmosphere in Café del Mar, laying the foundation for the island’s legendary sunset lounge culture.

Café del Mar, Ibiza, in the 80’s

Despite welcoming new visitors, the island kept its humble fishing spirit, with boats daily returning to sell fresh catch at the local markets.

A fishing boat in Ibiza, 1975 / Gianni Ferrari

In the ’70s and ’80s, Ibiza old town buzzed with bohemian energy, where artists, musicians, and free spirits mingled along its sun-soaked streets.

January 9, 2026

Stories
WHO SHAPED THE SOUND OF CHILLOUT MUSIC

From Brian Eno’s ambient beginnings to Zero 7, Thievery Corporation, and Blank & Jones, these pioneers created the smooth, soulful atmosphere we still love today.

 

Top 10 Chillout Music Pioneers

 

Brian Eno

The godfather of ambient music. His Ambient 1: Music for Airports set the foundation for chillout.

Brian Eno

Café del Mar Compilations (Various Artists)

Ibiza’s iconic compilations that defined Balearic chillout in the late 1980s – 1990s.

Moby

His ambient and downtempo albums (Play, Hotel: Ambient) popularized chillout worldwide.

Massive Attack

Trip-hop pioneers whose atmospheric, sow beats influenced chillout and downtempo styles.

Thievery Corporation

Blended lounge, dub, and word music into relaxing, immersive tracks.

Zero 7

Downtempo and chillout with soulful vocals and lush arrangements.

Air

French duo known for dreamy cinematic chillout albums like Moon Safari.

The Orb

Ambient house innovators with hypnotic, spacey soundscapes.

Enigma

Fused electronic, world, and new age sounds to create relaxing, mystical chillout music. Formed in 1990 by Michael Cretu, David Fairstein and Frank Peterson.

The KLF

Early Pioneers in ambient house, blending electronic beats with chillout atmospheres.

Blank & Jones

Formed in 1995 in Germany by Piet Blank and Jaspa Jones. While they began with trance and electronic dance music, around the 2000s they transitioned into chillout and lounge, especially with their relax series starting in 2003.

Groove Armada

This legendary London duo consisted of Andy Cato (Andy Cocup) and Tom Findlay was one of most influential act of  late 90s and early 2000s. They influenced Trip-Hop, Chillout, House, and even Synth-Pop and New Wave. Still active today, they continue to bring their iconic sound to global stages, with a full schedule of festival appearances locked in for 2026.

THE CHILLOUT CULTURE STILL LIVES – AND ITS SPIRIT IS EVERYWHERE 🌴

December 26, 2025

Stories
Music Brain

The Hidden Power of Music – The Science Behind Every Note

Research shows that listening or playing music activates multiple brain regions linked to movement, memory, emotion and language.

When you listen to music, your brain shows increased activity across the auditory cortex and limbic system, which are linked to sound processing and emotional regulation. Playing music engages more of your brain, creating and strengthening neural pathways.

Regular music practice can increase:

  • Neural connectivity between brain regions;
  • Gray matter density in areas related to memory and coordination;
  • White matter integrity, improving communications between brain hemispheres.

 

Children

Children who learn instrument develop stronger language, focus, improved attention control and memory skills. Music training also strengthens the corpus callosum, improving communication between brain hemispheres.

Adults

Adult who engage with music can preserve cognitive function, slow memory decline, boost mood, and improve attention. Music acts as cognitive training, strengthening key neural pathways for long-term brain health.

Recovery and Therapy

Music therapy helps stroke, Parkinson’s and brain injury patients recover. Rhythm and melody activate alternative neural pathways, supporting speech and harnessing the brain’s neuroplasticity.

Everyday Life

You don’t need to be a processional musician to benefit. Even singing, tapping rhythms, or learning a few chords can encourage new neural growth. The key factor is active engagement – participating in music rather then only hearing it in the background.

 

December 23, 2025

Artist  ·  Stories
The Beginnings of Chillout Music

From Ibiza’s golden sunsets to London’s underground clubs – these places shaped the sound that still helps the world slow down, breathe, and feel.

Here are the most important pioneers:

1. Café del Mar (Ibiza, 1980)

  • The very first and most iconic chillout venue in the world.
  • Opened in 1980 on San Antonio’s sunset strip.
  • DJs like José Padilla began mixing ambient, downtempo, and Balearic sounds during sunsets, defining the chillout genre.

2. Café Mambo (Ibiza, early 1990s)

  • Continued the tradition of sunset chillout sessions.
  • Helped spread the Ibiza “sunset sound” globally.

3. The Sound Factory Bar (New York, early 1990s)

  • While mostly house-oriented, it had ambient and lounge rooms that inspired chillout DJs worldwide.

4. Heaven (late 1970s – 1980s)

  • One of London’s first major clubs to host ambient rooms, often curated by Brian Eno’s followers and experimental DJs.
  • Eno himself, who coined the term “ambient music,” lived in London — his influence spread through art and club scenes.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 10: Musician Brian Eno poses for a portrait in London, on July 7, 1980. (Photo by Anton Corbijn/Contour by Getty Images)

5. The Chill Out Room at Heaven (by The KLF, late 1980s)

  • The KLF (Bill Drummond & Jimmy Cauty) created an actual “Chill Out Room” at Heaven in the late ’80s, where ambient soundscapes and visuals were used to relax dancers after the main floor.
  • This became one of the first official “chillout rooms” in the world.

6. The Ministry of Sound (early 1990s)

  • Famous for house, but had ambient and lounge rooms inspired by Ibiza’s Café del Mar vibe.
  • Resident DJs mixed chillout between peak-time sets.

7. Megadog / Whirl-Y-Gig / The Orb Events

  • The Orb, London-based pioneers of ambient house, often performed in clubs with immersive visuals and downtempo beats.
  • These events helped define the London chillout movement of the early ’90s.

THE CHILLOUT CULTURE STILL LIVES – AND ITS SPIRIT IS EVERYWHERE 🌴

November 21, 2025

Burning Man
Music  ·  Stories
The Birth of Burning Man: From 1986

From a small beach bonfire with 20 friends to a massive desert city of over 70,000, Burning Man has become the ultimate celebration of art, community, and radical self-expression.

1986 — The Beginning (Baker Beach, San Francisco)

Larry Harvey and Jerry James built an 8-foot wooden man and burned it on June 22, 1986, surrounded by about 20 friends.
It was spontaneous — no plan, no permits — just art, fire, and community.
People on the beach joined in, played music, and celebrated freedom of expression.

Burning Man, building of the effigie

1987–1989 — Growing on the Beach

Each summer, the event grew.
By 1989, the wooden Man was 40 feet tall, and hundreds of people gathered.
But after that year, authorities banned burning large structures on the beach — it had simply become too big.

1990 — The Move to Black Rock Desert (Nevada)

A group of artists and adventurers from the Cacophony Society invited Larry to bring the burn to the Black Rock Desert, a vast dry lakebed in Nevada.
That year, about 80 people went — no rules, no roads, just art, dust, and total freedom.
This was the birth of the desert version of Burning Man.

1990s — The Birth of Black Rock City

The desert became a blank canvas for creativity.
Artists started building large installations, theme camps, and mutant vehicles.
The event developed its core principles: radical self-expression, self-reliance, community, and leave no trace.
By 1998, it drew 15,000 people.

2000s — From Gathering to Temporary City

Burning Man became a fully functioning city, designed in a circular layout called Black Rock City.
It had roads, camps, services, and even its own “Department of Public Works.”
Population soared to 35,000+ by mid-2000s.
Art cars, sound camps, and giant interactive sculptures defined the experience.

2010s — Today — Global Movement

Now, over 70,000 people attend annually.
The Man still burns each year, but the spirit spread worldwide — with regional “Burns” on every continent.
Burning Man became less of a festival and more of a cultural experiment in creativity, sustainability, and human connection.

Burning Man Today – Fun Facts

  • Population: Over 70,000 people gather each year – a fully functional temporary city rises in the desert.
  • Art Everywhere: There are hundreds of massive art installations, some you can walk through, climb, or even ride! Many are interactive.
  • Mutant Vehicles: Cars aren’t just cars here — people decorate them as dragons, giant animals, or even mobile art galleries.
  • Theme Camps: Participants create mini-communities, offering workshops, music, performances, and gifts.
  • The Man: Still burned every year in a huge ceremony – symbolizing creativity, letting go, and transformation.
  • 10 Principles: The culture revolves around principles like radical self-expression, gifting, participation, and leave no trace.
  • Global Influence: Burning Man inspired regional Burns worldwide — from Europe to Asia, Africa, and South America.
November 10, 2025

Sky Lantern Festival 2025
News  ·  Stories
Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival 2025

When dreams rise to meet the stars

Every November, the skies of northern Thailand come alive with light and hope. In 2025, the Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival once again transforms the night into a breathtaking sea of glowing wishes.

Held on November 5–6, 2025, at the CAD Cultural Center Lanna in Mae On District, about 30 km east of Chiang Mai, the festival is part of Thailand’s ancient Yi Peng and Loy Krathong traditions — celebrations of light, renewal, and gratitude.

Over 15,000 people gather beneath the stars, each releasing a paper lantern (khom loy) into the sky, carrying personal wishes for love, peace, and good fortune. Guests also float krathongs (decorative baskets) on nearby waters, letting go of worries and welcoming new beginnings.

Beyond the lantern release, visitors enjoy Lanna-style music, traditional dance, and hill-tribe performances, along with authentic Thai cuisine and eco-friendly lanterns made from biodegradable materials.

For two magical nights, the sky over Chiang Mai becomes a living artwork — a reflection of unity, peace, and dreams taking flight.

May every wish rise high and illuminate our world with hope.

November 4, 2025

Music  ·  Stories
8 Most Ethical Music Festivals in Europe

Celebrating music while prioritizing ethical values, these eight music festivals in Europe offer a unique party experience with a purpose. Going beyond profit, these festivals embrace sustainability, social responsibility, and conscious practices. From supporting local communities to promoting eco-friendly initiatives, they are committed to making a positive impact to the World.

With diverse musical lineups, immersive experiences, and a shared ethos, these ethical festivals create a vibrant atmosphere where attendees can dance, connect, and contribute to a greater cause. Join these celebrations of music and ethical values, where partying becomes a catalyst for positive change.


MEDICINE FESTIVAL, UK

In contrast to the sky-high ticket prices, corporate branding, and focus on big-name acts that have become synonymous with music festivals, a shift is taking place. As a recent UK study highlights the impact of the cost of living crisis on people’s attendance at live music events, it’s clear that commercial festivals may have lost some of their appeal.

However, amidst this backdrop, there is good news. Europe is home to a range of eclectic and affordable festivals that prioritize a different approach. These festivals consciously place profit in the backseat, embracing a more diverse and inclusive experience for attendees.

By fostering a vibrant atmosphere and curating unique lineups, these festivals provide an alternative space for music lovers to gather and celebrate without breaking the bank. It’s a refreshing departure from the commercial norm, offering a glimpse into a more accessible and authentic music festival experience.

Pete the Monkey, Normandy, France

Nestled in the beautiful Seine-Maritime region of northern France, Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer hosts a captivating three-day festival known as Pete the Monkey, situated just a stone’s throw away from the beach.

Referred to as a “secret little paradise” by Le Monde newspaper, this festival is a lively fusion of French and English culture, with sustainability taking center stage. Embracing an eco-conscious approach, Pete the Monkey ensures that food trucks exclusively offer locally sourced produce, effectively supporting the region’s agriculture. With a commitment to minimizing environmental impact, the festival proudly eliminates the use of plastic on-site, offering a more sustainable experience. Notably, even the DJ stage operates on solar panels, showcasing the integration of renewable energy sources.

Pete the Monkey festival stands as a shining example of harmonizing music, culture, and environmental responsibility, providing attendees with a vibrant and socially conscious experience amidst the breathtaking surroundings of Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer.

Pete the Monkey festival has a history of impressive lineups, featuring artists like Loyle Carner and Folamour. In 2023, the stage will showcase the talents of Orchestra Baobab, Flavien Berger, Acid Arab, and more. What sets this festival apart is its mission to support the Jacj Cuisi monkey sanctuary in Bolivia. The funds raised contribute to saving animals affected by deforestation and illegal trafficking. Inspired by a viral video capturing monkeys being used as pets and forced to wash dishes, festival founder Louis Dumas and his brother Rob decided to establish a fundraising event for the sanctuary. From its humble beginnings in 2012 as a 350-person party, Pete the Monkey has grown into one of France’s most esteemed green festivals.

Mark your calendars for July 13-15, and secure your three-day ticket priced at €177.50. Join the celebration of music, conservation, and community at petethemonkeyfestival.

Sun, Hungary

The Sun (Solar United Natives) festival takes place in Csobankapuszta, a “Garden of Eden” in northern Hungary.

At Sun, the core essence revolves around fostering profound human connections. Attendees gather to rebuild, release their burdens, seek forgiveness, and embrace letting go. The festival’s grounds feature cows and sheep, offering a natural and harmonious ambiance. Engaging in tree-planting sessions and participating in healing groups further enhance the transformative atmosphere.

Born a decade ago from the vibrant Hungarian Goa scene, known for its psychedelic trance parties, Sun festival continues to embody that vibrant spirit. This year’s lineup includes Sabretooth, Gagarin Project, Triceradrops, and more, ensuring a mesmerizing auditory journey.

To attend Sun, a unique approach awaits as traditional ticketing is eschewed. Instead, becoming a “member” of the community is required. The entire event is organized by the NGO Deep Smile Foundation, without any corporate backing or investors. The festival’s profits are reinvested into developing a sustainable community within the region, underscoring its commitment to long-term positive impact.

Save the dates for July 10-17, and secure your spot with an annual membership priced at €115 or a lifetime membership at €200. Join the Sun festival, where connection, transformation, and sustainability intertwine in a truly extraordinary experience.

Pol’and’Rock, Poland Festival

Known as the Woodstock of Poland, Pol’and’Rock is among the top free music festivals in the world “driven by ideals rather than money”.

Set in Czaplinek, northwest Poland, the Poland Rock Festival draws an immense crowd, with 750,000 attendees in 2019. While rooted in heavy metal, the festival’s lineup features a diverse range of genres, including indie, hip-hop, rock, and reggae. This year, headliners such as Apollo 440 and Bullet for My Valentine (BFMV) will take the stage, accompanied by a plethora of creative workshops and enlightening lectures.

Organized by the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity, the festival serves as a gesture of gratitude to its volunteers. Each year, the funds raised are dedicated to a different branch of medicine in Poland. Previously, the festival supported pediatric and elderly care, as well as raised funds for specific conditions like sepsis. Inclusive by design, the festival welcomes patients alongside other attendees, ensuring safe spaces are created to accommodate their needs.

Fot. Piotr Zagiell/East News. 29.07.2021, Ploty – Lotnisko Makowice. Pol’and’Rock Festival.

Mark your calendars for August 3-5, and immerse yourself in this remarkable event. Best of all, entry is free, inviting music enthusiasts from near and far to partake in the celebration. Join the Poland Rock Festival, where music, gratitude, and philanthropy converge in a truly unforgettable experience.

 

Ypsigrock, Sicily, Italy

Situated on the enchanting north coast of Sicily, between the majestic Madonie Mountains and the sparkling sea, lies the medieval town of Castelbuono. Surprisingly, this charming town plays host to Italy’s premier indie-rock festival, defying expectations with its vibrant music scene.

Ypsigrock, a renowned music festival, has witnessed captivating performances by acclaimed acts like alt-J and Primal Scream. This year’s lineup boasts the melodic allure of “emotional rock” artist Ekkstacy, the unique blend of jazz and electronica from the Comet is Coming, and the captivating sounds of Mercury prize-winning group Young Fathers.

Celebrating its 26th year, the festival was established by the nonprofit organization Associazione Culturale Glenn Gould. Dedicated to promoting cultural initiatives that enhance and enrich the region, the association also collaborates with Fondazione Con il Sud to facilitate social inclusion programs. One of their primary goals is to make events in southern Italy more accessible, ensuring active participation for individuals with disabilities.

From August 10-13, immerse yourself in the Ypsigrock experience with a three-day pass priced at €125.89. Join this remarkable festival, where music and social impact converge, in the picturesque setting of ypsigrock.

JazzPiknik, Hungary

The founding idea was a relationship between good wines, charming atmosphere and good music, as the owners of a popular local winery, the masterminds being Szabolcs Homola and Orsolya Valde. They thought up, and still do, a quality event near Lake Balaton offering an alternative to mass festivals. Besides the best Hungarian and international performers, it is an important aspect to provide quality gastronomy, offer local products, and pay attention to sustainability. No more than a stone’s throw from Balaton on the wine hill of Paloznak, guests can expect to find a real picnic festivity.

The small village of 500, becomes the Balaton capital of jazz, funk and soul for those three days: the big concerts are held at the main stage next to the village with guest resting on blankets during the day and dancing on the grass under the stars at night. The smaller stages are among the authentic century old village houses, and they give place to exciting jazz performances.

The festival grows continuously based on the needs of the audience, and although it attracts every year more and more people, we don’t want to lose our familiar atmosphere. Our maximum capacity is not based on square meter/person, we leave space to have that picnic feeling. We offer free entrance under the age of 14, and we know that the families wouldn’t be complete without their dogs, so audience can bring them our festival too.

Our selection of music entertains wide age group of people, from little ones to elderly music lovers. In one of the most beautiful corners of the Balaton Highlands, we strive to make this festival environmentally friendly to the greatest possible extent. We avoid using plastic as much as we can, and only offer compostable cups and plates made of plant fibers. We introduced awareness raising children programs to draw our future adults attention to the environment.

Amsterdam Dance Event (Ade), Holland

Every October, electronic music enthusiasts gather in Holland for the renowned Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE). While the festival comes with a higher price tag of €525, it is a must-attend for hardcore fans who value the immersive experience it offers.

ADE Festival, EDMHouseNetwork

Spanning five days, ADE hosts an astonishing array of approximately 1,000 events across 200 locations throughout the city. From intimate basement-club nights and marathon 12-hour parties to grand stadium shows, enlightening lectures, and engaging workshops, this festival serves as a hub where industry enthusiasts and EDM aficionados come together.

ADE Festival, IQ Magazine

In the previous year, the opening night featured a captivating live performance by Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein, the composers of the acclaimed Stranger Things soundtrack. This year’s lineup includes a mesmerizing solo show by DJ Martin Garrix and exhilarating sets by techno-house experts such as Bárbara Lago and Fatima Hajji, among many others.

ADE is organized by the Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to nurturing electronic music, its culture, and the industry on a global scale. Their mission is to establish a solid foundation for future generations by supporting emerging talent and fostering the growth of electronic music.

Untold, Romania

Nestled in the captivating city of Cluj-Napoca, located in north-western Romania, Untold stands proudly as the country’s largest electronic music festival. Boasting a remarkable lineup that spans across six stages, both indoor and outdoor, this event gathers some of the most talented artists in contemporary techno.

Untold is renowned for its diverse musical offerings, catering to a wide range of tastes. From trap, progressive house, and psy, to euphoric hardstyle, afro house, and ambient, there’s something for everyone. In the upcoming 2023 edition, prepare to be enthralled by performances from acclaimed artists like Imagine Dragons, Alesso, and Bedouin, among many others.

A fascinating fun fact from the festival’s history: In 2018, Armin van Buuren delivered an extraordinary seven-hour set on the main stage, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.

The inception of Untold can be attributed to Share Federation Cluj-Napoca, a nonprofit government organization, which took shape after the city of Cluj-Napoca was designated as the European Youth Capital in 2015. The federation’s core mission revolves around supporting youth organizations through inclusive urban development projects, while promoting the sharing of culture and common European values.

Mark your calendars for August 3-6 and grab your day tickets starting from €89. Immerse yourself in the magic of Untold, where electrifying music, vibrant energy, and a celebration of European youth culture come together to create an unforgettable experience.

 

 

October 10, 2025

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