It is no easy manoeuvre launching a festival from the ground up. Especially when that initial itch goes far beyond the need for live music, transcending into a mission to build a community and a sanctuary in nature. Found in the valleys of Swellendam, Beyond the Mountain is the brainchild of founders Max and Florian, who turned that shared vision into a sonic refuge.
But it goes far beyond the mountain backdrop (no pun intended) and the tight-knit community. The real magic lies in the fusion of international music and the immersive, neon-drenched stage art designed by the co-founder of the event and Berlin-based designer Flörian Goerlitz – his visuals tail the music, helping the festival carve an identity that’s entirely its own. As a celebration of electronic music and harmonious coexistence, it firmly establishes Beyond The Mountain as a bona fide escape. Ahead of their second edition happening from the 30th of December to the 1st January, we spoke to the team to unpack what really makes this gathering tick.
What was the original spark or idea that officially led to the creation of Beyond The Mountain Festival? Was it a momentous idea? A meditated dream?
The two of us (Max and Flo) had been planning this festival for the last few years. A festival that would integrate art and sound in a truly meaningful way. But as we were planning, numerous global conflicts unfolded, and we were both deeply shocked by the destructive energy our society is capable of. We felt it was time for a new strategy. We both agreed that we needed to create a space where people could think beyond borders, beyond inner limitations, and beyond the societal boundaries that divide us.We envisioned a place where unity, peace, and love could exist without compromise. That vision became the foundation of the festival.
From concept to stage to sound — building a festival from scratch is no small feat. What would you say has been the most challenging part of the process?
Establishing a unique style has definitely been one of the biggest challenges. We wanted to create a fully immersive world, one that offers a new visual and sonic experience, combining kinetic energy with a dancefloor atmosphere that allows people to disconnect from daily life and step into a completely new aesthetic where dreams can flow freely.
How does the local scene shape the festival’s identity, compared to what we see in Europe or elsewhere? Because it seems that, regardless of South Africa’s different influences from the electronic music scene, Beyond the Mountain has focused on shaping its own sound and identity.
We want to invite the world to join this gathering – everyone who feels drawn to our vibe is welcome, whether you are an artist or as a guest. At the same time, it’s crucial for us to stay rooted in the local community.
We see it as our responsibility to shape not just a festival experience, but also the world around us, within the scope of our reach and capabilities.
The name almost speaks for itself – what does this title “Beyond The Mountain” really represent for you? And for those attending?
We live in a world flooded with words, campaigns, and often misleading information. At times, it can feel like we’re living under the weight of a massive mountain, leaving us feeling small and powerless.
What we need are not more words, but genuine experiences. Experiences that allow us to feel the vision of a unified and loving society. Beyond the Mountain is about giving people the opportunity to see beyond the horizon that society often limits us to. We truly believe these kinds of shared moments can one day help heal the world.
What is it about your stage vision that feels integral to the festival?
I didn’t start this journey into building stages and creating art installations for some superficial reason, it was always about community.
My vision is deeply rooted in the idea that when people come together to share a common dream, it gives their lives a sense of meaning and self-realisation. That’s one of the most powerful energies a person can feel.
How do you maintain the spirit without losing the energy and connection that make it so magnetic? Do you aim to go bigger in the future?
Our goal has always been to become a festival with real spirit. What matters to us is creating an event full of beauty, meaning, and high quality. Something that resonates deeply with those who attend. We trust that the people who are meant to be part of this New Year’s Eve ceremony will find their way to it. That’s what keeps the energy real.
You describe the festival as a place of unity, love, and especially healing — what is it about the music and sound at the festival that leans on this idea?
The lineup is curated in a way that creates a continuous arc of energy throughout the entire festival.
This ensures that you’re always connected. You have the chance to fully immerse yourself in the music and enter a kind of trance state. That’s where healing can happen, especially during such a significant time like New Year’s. It’s about helping people find peace within themselves and within the experience.
Looking back at the first edition, what’s one thing you learned that’s shaping the way you’re approaching this year?
Honestly, we were blown away by the positive energy at the first edition. Even for us, it was a huge emotional release. We’re incredibly grateful to all of our guests, and this year we want to give back even more of that magic through art, special effects, and moments that elevate the atmosphere. We’re confident that this second edition will go even deeper, especially in terms of the ceremonial and communal energy we aim to cultivate.
Do you have a personal favourite this year?
Yes but it would be a shame to spoil the surprise. The magic is in the discovery, and we’re excited for our guests to experience it all, moment by moment.