Even if you’ve never been, you’ve probably listened to — or watched — a Dekmantel set. Over the year’s the festival’s broadcasts have helped catapult its reputation far beyond Amsterdam — and made a few viral moments too. Since its inauguration in 2013, having evolved from an intimate club night in the late ’00s, it’s been a key destination for summer ravers the world over. Dekmantel’s curation privileges sonic depth and heritage over your typical big-ticket names, which is why dance music heads are always open to exploring new names on its bill, as well as some of the best DJs the scene has to offer. 2024’s edition boasted more than 150 acts across eight stages, with Dekmantel favourites CARISTA, Eris Drew and Call Super taking pride of place in its billing. 2025 is looking strong too, with an impressive schedule of b2bs — ANZ & Pearson Sound, Kittin & DJ MELL G, Elena Colombi & Lena Wilikens, to name a few. Over the last decade, Dekmantel has become a benchmark for festival innovation, showing that there’s still space for dance music experiences with heart and a creative vision at their core. RIA HYLTON
