Every day we are one step closer to the long-awaited festival season, to make friends under the sun (or the rain), to cry over the overlaps between your favourite artists, but above all, to enjoy the music in a big way.
In Germany, one of the current motherlands of techno, there are an overwhelming number of festivals to consider. However, only a handful pass Xceed’s underground and quality filter. Read on to find out which ones have been selected!
Brachland
Based in one of the city’s most renowned electronic hotspots, Brachland Festival 2024 is coming with a bang from 11-12 May at Edelfettwerk (Hamburg).
The former factory will be transformed into a full-fledged mid-scale event, boasting versatility thanks to its five stages, two open air and two indoor. More than forty artists will be playing on the decks to add rhythm to this big occasion. Tickets are around 29-33€, but they’re flying, so don’t sleep on it.
Café Soda Festival
Café Soda has been making waves in and around Hamburg for several years now. So much so that they are already going for the second edition of their festival. With a daytime format from 11am to 10pm in Heiligengeistfeld and a night-time journey in Uebel & Gefährlich until 6am, Café Soda Festival stands as one of the most succulent and respected options in the area on June 1st.
The groove is guaranteed! On the decks will be artists of international calibre such as MRD or Nene H, accompanied by those who read the local audience best, such as Najeh or EliaHaze. Additionally, they will be joined by some of the city’s favourite bar teams and restaurants, and also local concept shops creating a memorable day. Tickets are now available for 50€.
Stone Techno
The mother of all select techno festivals in Germany is Stone Techno in Essen. Since 2020, this collaborative project between The Third Room and the Ruhr Museum has done nothing but win fans from all over Europe.
Its location is iconic. As a polycentric and post-industrial spot of renovation and future oriented transformation, it is unmatched and unique worldwide. Musically speaking, the protagonist is techno culture in its purest form. During the weekend of 12-14 June, Stone Techno will be the mecca of the genre in Europe with a carefully curated line-up like no other. From established legends like Oscar Mulero and Ben Sims, to chart-toppers like Anetha and Grace Dahl and up-and-comers like Mac Declos and Vel, Stone Techno’s line-up is a pure spectacle and a delight for the ears of any electronic music lover.
VER:AIR
One of the hottest promoters of the Hamburg scene will also be present this festival season. After a record-breaking winter, VER presents its big open air event at the Cruise Center Altona in Hamburg on 29 and 30 June.
The chosen line-up needs little introduction. On Saturday, the Dutch-Turkish Oguz and his signature tattoos will turn the crowd upside down with the most acclaimed hard techno sound of the moment. He will be joined by Steya and other local artists.
On Sunday, VER:AIR will be a full-blown EXHALE takeover with Belgian Amelie Lens as captain. Her long-awaited return to the stage and her globally recognised techno are the highlights of this VER open air, accompanied by her close label colleagues Milo Spykers and Ahl Iver.
Please note: Despite being a two-day festival there is no camping or wardrobe available, so consider your logistics before you attend. Single day tickets are available for €40, while tickets for both days are €70.
Modus x Weird
Born and situated in the heart of Hamburg, in the stunning open-air grounds of 45Hertz and blessed with sunbeams. Modus and Weird have joined forces for the ultimate day & night experience from 6th to 7th July.
The musical selection at Modus Festival is one of the most envied in the area. A very melodic daytime line up will host legends such as Jan Blomqvist (Live), Adana Twins or Britta Arnold. At night, the chameleon-like German Boys Noize will be one of the big draws. The creator of hits such as ‘Fine Day Anthem’ will make his mark alongside other artists such as Oliver Schories and Nina Hepburn. A top national and international line-up that will leave no one indifferent. General admission tickets are 47.9€ (although you can buy day or night tickets), while VIP tickets are 69.9€.
Kontrast
From the heart of the scene, few events support underground electronic music as Kontrast Festival does. This 3-day gathering of dancefloor connoisseurs is located in the south of the country, specifically in Augsburg.
The dynamism of this event, despite its recent existence, puts it on the map as one of the most promising options of the season. From 2 to 4 August, Kontrast will host all kinds of artists and activities in the middle of nature. From tattoos, clothing and accessories stalls, to homemade pizza. All in one.
Another of Kontrast’s distinctive features are the structures of its stages, which are closely linked to geometric art. Its neon lights, in contrast to the sun and the trees, will immerse you in a special magic. And, above all, as Kontrast themselves say: BE AWARE, ACT FRIENDLY, TAKE CARE, AND HAVE FUN! (applicable to any event). Prices for 3-day tickets range from €77-87, while one-day tickets cost €55.
We cannot conclude this article without highlighting the work of festivals such as Hasardeur or The Third Room Festival. Find your perfect getaway for the summer season!
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