As we step into 2025, the psychedelic trance scene is primed for another unforgettable year, with festivals like Boom in Portugal and Ozora in Hungary breaking attendance numbers. It’s the perfect time to start planning your festival calendar and decide which events will make it onto your bucket list.
For those who’ve never experienced a psytrance festival—or a “bush doof” as it’s known in Australia—it’s not just an event; it’s an immersive experience. These multi-day celebrations revolve around the music but offer so much more. You’ll encounter awesome people, surreal art installations, chill zones for yoga and meditation, workshops, and quiet spaces for personal reflection, all set against the backdrop of mind-bending beats.
While you might hear psytrance at larger mainstream festivals like Tomorrowland in Belguim and Ultra in the USA, where artists slip in a set or two, the true magic of the genre unfolds at festivals dedicated to the sound and spirit of psychedelic trance.
With 2025 now underway, here’s a roundup of the world’s top psytrance festivals—those that belong at the top of any dedicated fan’s bucket list. These events are renowned not only for their jaw-dropping locations and top-tier lineups but for creating a vibe that transcends the music itself.
With so many incredible festivals to choose from, be sure to check out our complete psytrance calendar to find the perfect experience for you.
Origin Festival 2025 – South Africa
Next Date: 31 January - 02 February 2025
For two decades, Origin Festival has been one of South Africa’s most anticipated cultural events. This year, mark your calendars for the next edition from January 31 to February 2, 2025, at the Elandskloof Guest Farm near Cape Town. It’s more than just a music festival—it’s an experience that’s captured the hearts of thousands over the years. If you don't have tickets yet - you're already out of luck - as the event has sold out.
Since its inception in 2004, Origin has brought together lovers of music, art, and community for a three-day celebration that feels almost otherworldly. The festival’s eclectic mix of sounds—psychedelic trance, techno, house, and electronic beats—fills the air, creating a vibe that’s impossible to ignore.
But the magic of Origin isn’t just about the music. It's about the atmosphere. A carefully curated blend of food stalls, bars, live art installations, and interactive workshops transforms the festival grounds into a living, breathing work of art. And the festival's iconic décor, crafted in collaboration with Artescape, always surprises and delights, adding to the immersive experience.
Origin Festival features two dance floors featuring some of the best South African talent and international guests. The Origin Floor, considered the "main floor", focuses on psychedelic and progressive music. The Riverside Beats Floor, taking place among the beautiful forest canopy, offers a more atmospheric experience with a mix of techno, house and disco music.
Hill Top Festival 2025 - India
Next Date: 06 February - 09 February 2025
If you’re heading to Goa early in the year, you’re in for a treat. The weather’s perfect, and Hill Top Festival is the cherry on top of what already feels like paradise. Set in the beautiful village of Vagator, this festival has been drawing people from all over the world for over 40 years. It’s one of those rare events where the music, the people, and the surroundings come together in a way that feels almost magical.
The location is unreal - surrounded by hills, with the ocean just a short walk away, it’s the perfect spot to get lost in the music. Hill Top has a nostalgic energy that’s hard to explain, but once you're there, it feels like you're back in the 80s.
If you’re planning to go, I’d recommend staying close by in Anjuna. It’s near the festival, and it gives you the perfect balance—easy access to all the action but still quiet enough for some downtime.
The festival has three main areas to check out: the Main Stage, the Chilltop Stage, and the Genesis Stage. Each one has its vibe, so there’s always something different happening, and the crowd is a mix of about 5,000 people all there to lose themselves in the music.
Keep in mind that the festivities at Hill Top Festival conclude early in the night. It's advisable to arrive early and make the most of the daytime experience. Explore the vibrant markets (Goa Collective Bazaar), taste diverse food, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Goa has always had this special energy, and Hill Top Festival taps into that. It's not just about the music—the connections, the memories, and the feeling that you're exactly where you're meant to be. If you get the chance, this festival is one you won’t forget.
Esoteric Festival 2025 – Australia
Next Date: 07 March - 11 March 2025
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to experience a true bush doof, then Esoteric Festival in Donald, Victoria, is the place to be. Over four days, this festival turns the Aussie bush into an unforgettable celebration of music, nature, and a sense of freedom that’s hard to find anywhere else. Since it started in 2017, Esoteric has quickly grown into one of the biggest names on Australia’s electronic music scene, and it’s no surprise why.
The thing about Esoteric is that it really taps into the vibe that Australians and South Africans have in common—a laid-back yet passionate energy where people are up for a good time, love a good dance, and are all about creating a space that’s as much about community as it is about music. If you’ve ever spent time in South Africa, you’ll know exactly what I mean—the openness, the warmth, and that “we’re all in this together” vibe. Australians have that same thing going on, which makes Esoteric feel like a place where you can easily let go and connect with strangers who soon feel like old friends.
As for the festival itself, it’s a journey for the senses. There are six unique stages, each with its own personality, from the sun-soaked Sun Temple to the deep, rumbling beats of Snakepit. You’ve got the chilled-out Chill Island, perfect for unwinding between sets, and Lost Lagoon where you might just find yourself caught up in a bit of magic. Whether you're after some full-on psychedelic trance or more experimental sounds, there’s something for everyone here. And with the night sky of the Southern Hemisphere above you, the whole thing feels like a dream come true.
Then there’s the theme—Psychedelic Circus. It’s a bit trippy, a bit whimsical, and it invites you to leave behind the every day and step into a space where anything feels possible. It’s not just about the beats; it’s about creating this world where music, art, and people merge into something bigger than just a festival. Everything at Esoteric, from the art installations to the immersive atmosphere, encourages you to let go and experience something unique.
But the real charm of Esoteric lies in its community. There’s something special about the people who come here. It’s not about flashy setups or being seen—it’s about sharing a moment, letting go of all the noise, and just being in the moment. It’s one of those places where you can get lost in the music or find yourself chatting with strangers who quickly feel like long-lost mates. It’s got that same kind of spirit (or "gees" we call it) I love about South African festivals—a bit wild, a bit free-spirited, and full of good energy.
Esoteric isn’t just another festival; it’s an experience and one that’s worth the journey. If you're looking for an escape into something a bit out of the ordinary, where the music and the people are as much a part of the magic as the place itself, then this bush doof is where you want to be.
Festival Ometeotl 2025 – Mexico
Next Date: 11 April - 14 April 2025
Every April, the small town of Morelos in Mexico becomes the backdrop for Festival Ometeotl—a celebration that’s as much about honouring ancient traditions as it is about bringing the community together. The festival has shifted from March to April, but its essence remains the same: a vibrant gathering of people celebrating culture, spirituality, and the deep connection to their roots.
At the heart of the festival is the belief in Ometeotl, a powerful figure who embodies the dual forces of creation in Aztec tradition. It’s said that Ometeotl chooses a person each year to represent them—a living messenger between the divine and the physical world.
What makes Ometeotl so unique is the deep sense of community that flows through every part of the festival. It’s not just the rituals and the dances (though they’re certainly unforgettable). It’s about the people coming together to share in something bigger than themselves. Picture it: colourful costumes, traditional dances, the rhythm of drums filling the air, and the smell of delicious food wafting through the festival grounds.
The festival is full of rituals that go back centuries—offerings to the gods, songs that have been passed down through generations, and traditional dances that bring the ancient spirit of the Aztec culture to life. For those who are there to take part, it’s a deeply immersive experience that connects you with something much larger than just the festivities. It’s about feeling part of a community, honouring the past, and finding a place in the present.
Earth Frequency Festival 2025 – Australia
Next Date: 02 May - 05 May 2025
From humble beginnings in 2005, Earth Frequency Festival has grown into a must-attend event in South East Queensland, and by May 2025, it will be celebrating 20 incredible years. It’s now Queensland’s longest-running electronic music festival, and for good reason—this bush doof has something for everyone.
Taking place from 02–05 May 2025, Earth Frequency is more than just music. Yes, there’s world-class electronic and live performances, but there’s also immersive art, thought-provoking workshops, vibrant markets, and a family-friendly vibe that makes it feel like a community gathering. It’s the kind of festival where you can lose yourself in the music, but also take time to chill and enjoy everything else on offer.
The festival’s vibe is what really sets it apart. It’s got this welcoming, positive energy that you don’t find everywhere. Whether you’re dancing under the stars or just enjoying a meal from one of the awesome food stalls, you’ll feel like you’re part of something special. Plus, the stunning location in South East Queensland adds to the magic—think lush landscapes, fresh air, and a sense of freedom you can’t beat.
If you’re looking for a festival that’s about more than just the music—something that celebrates creativity, community, and good times—Earth Frequency 2025 is where you’ll want to be.
Psychedelic Experience Open Air 2025 - Germany
Next Date: 29 May - 01 June 2025
If you're looking for a festival that truly kicks off the European season in style, Psychedelic Experience Open Air Festival in Northern Germany is the place to be.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, this three-day and four-night festival run by the team at Solar Tech is an immersive experience. The Butterfly stage is where the magic starts, with non-stop psychedelic and progressive music that’ll keep you dancing under the stars.
As the day shifts into night, the vibe really evolves, but if you need a breather, the Ambient Garden is the perfect escape. Think peaceful, dreamlike surroundings with mind-bending art and décor—ideal for relaxing and recharging.
What makes Psychedelic Experience stand out is the way it blends music, creativity, and community. Whether you’re there to dance, soak up the art, or just be part of the positive energy, it’s a festival that leaves you feeling connected and inspired.
Burning Mountain Festival 2025 – Switzerland
Next Date: 26 June - 29 June 2025
If you’re looking for a festival that’s a bit different, Burning Mountain in Switzerland might just be your thing. It’s not for the die-hard psychedelic purists, but if you’re into that upbeat, progressive sound with a touch of poppy trance, this is the place to be. The vibe is more like a big nightclub than an outdoor, deep-psy trance experience—but that’s what makes it stand out. The energy is high from start to finish, and it’s a proper dance-fest.
The location is incredible—right in the heart of the Swiss Alps. It’s got that fresh mountain air and stunning views, which makes the whole experience feel a bit surreal. But what makes it shine is the sound system. It’s got punch. You can feel the bass in your chest, and the clarity is unreal. When the crowd gets into it, the whole place just comes alive.
If you’re after a bit of a clubby vibe, mixed with a killer location and top-tier sound, Burning Mountain is the festival for you. It’s got everything you need for a great time—good music, a fantastic crowd, and the kind of views you won’t forget in a hurry.
S.U.N Festival 2025 – Hungary
Next Date: 30 June - 07 July 2025
S.U.N Festival in Hungary has celebrated more than a decade of existence, and despite the team hinting at the festival reaching its end of life, there might be another edition in 2025.
Founded by individuals associated with the original Ozora Festival crew, the Solar United Natives project has turned Csobankapuszta into a cherished Garden of Eden, embodying the festival's commitment to community, sustainability, and environmental harmony.
In 2024, the festival introduced annual memberships, allowing participants to attend all 2024 events, including the renowned S.U.N Festival and WinterSUN, without additional charges. Members are encouraged to actively contribute to the SUN community, voting on key decisions and showcasing their talents.
As the festival evolves, it continues to celebrate music, arts, and the profound connection with nature, building on the foundation laid during its remarkable 10-year journey.
Noisily Festival of Music & Arts 2025 – UK
Next Date: 10 July - 13 July 2025
Noisily Festival of Music & Arts is an annual event that takes place in the United Kingdom and is a celebration of music, art, and culture. The festival is held at a beautiful and secluded location in the Coney Woods forest and is known for its unique and vibrant atmosphere.
Noisily Festival is known for its incredible lineup of acts, which includes some of the best DJs, producers, and musicians from around the world. With an eclectic mix of music genres, the festival is sure to keep the crowd entertained all night long. There are also plenty of art installations and workshops to explore, as well as a variety of food and drinks available.
Noisily Festival is also committed to sustainability and environmentalism, with a number of initiatives in place to ensure the festival is as eco-friendly as possible. These include the use of solar energy, purchasing locally sourced ingredients for food, and engaging in green initiatives such as tree-planting and waste management. With its commitment to sustainability, Noisily Festival is a great option for those looking for a fun and environmentally conscious event.
Boom Festival 2025 - Portugal
Next Date: 17 July - 24 July 2025
Boom Festival has become one of Europe’s largest festivals, attracting attendees from every corner of the earth. Held every two years in Portugal’s beautiful Alentejo region, the festival was founded in 1997 and has since earned its place as one of the world’s top psytrance festivals. Boom Festival is considered the "holy grail" by many psytrance enthusiasts.
After holding back-to-back editions in 2022 and 2023 due to the pandemic, the next Boom Festival will be in 2025. And, unbelievably, tickets for the 2025 edition sold out in just two days, almost nine months before the festival is due to kick off. If you don't have a ticket already, you might be out of luck.
Located near Idanha-a-Nova, Boom Festival isn’t just a music festival; it’s an entire world of creativity. Over the course of a week, attendees are treated to a mix of live music, art installations, workshops, and performances. The festival grounds are big and can take hours to walk across.
There’s a stage for nearly every taste, from electronic and techno beats at the Dance Temple to more traditional folk and acoustic sounds at the Alchemy Circle and Funky Beach Stage. But Boom isn’t just about the music—it’s a celebration of culture, with yoga sessions, dance classes, meditation, and circus acts happening all around the grounds. It’s the kind of festival where you can lose yourself in art, culture, and community for an entire week.
What really sets Boom apart is its commitment to sustainability. The festival works hard to minimise its environmental impact, from using renewable energy to carefully managing waste and encouraging eco-friendly travel. And it’s not just the festival itself that benefits from this focus on sustainability. Boom works closely with local communities and businesses to ensure the region’s traditions are respected and that the surrounding area remains protected.
Set in the UNESCO-listed Geoparque Naturtejo, Boom’s location is just as special as the festival itself. The landscape around the site is breathtaking, with rolling hills and dramatic scenery, and it’s just a short trip from the historic village of Monsanto. There’s a real sense of connection to the land here—something that feels particularly fitting given the festival’s emphasis on sustainability.
With its mix of music, art, culture, and environmental awareness, Boom Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that keeps growing in popularity. The 2025 edition sold out in record time, a testament to the festival’s growing global community. For those lucky enough to get tickets, Boom is more than just a festival—it’s an unforgettable experience that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate creativity, connection, and the beauty of the natural world.
VooV Experience 2025 – Germany
Next Date: 18 July - 22 July 2025
VooV Experience is one of the most renowned music festivals in Germany. It is held in Darmstadt, just outside of Frankfurt, and has been running since 1995. The festival is well-known for its eclectic lineup, which features a variety of genres from all over the world, including trance, techno, house, drum and bass, and more. The festival also hosts a wide range of activities and attractions, such as circus performances, fire shows, theater, art installations, and more.
The festival is held over two days and is a great opportunity for attendees to experience a wide range of music, art, and culture. Every year, the festival adds new elements to its lineup, making it a unique and exciting experience each time. The festival also offers a variety of food and beverage options, as well as camping spots for those who want to make a weekend out of it.
VooV Festival is a great way to experience the vibrant culture of Germany. It is a great opportunity to experience a wide range of music and art, as well as explore the city of Darmstadt. The festival is also a great place to make new friends, as it is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world. Whether you are a fan of electronic music or just looking for an exciting weekend away, VooV Festival is definitely worth checking out.
Ozora Festival 2025 - Hungary
Next Date: 25 July - 05 August 2025
Ozora Festival in Hungary is one of the most popular music festivals in Europe, with about 40,000 tickets sold for the 2024 edition last year. Ozora Festival is held in a small village called Ozora, near the city of Debrecen. The event has been running since 2004, but has changed ownership in more recent years. The festival welcomes a range of music genres and styles, such as trance, psytrance, techno, and more.
Ozora Festival is renowned for its spectacular decorations, amazing sound system and unique atmosphere. The festival is organized in a way that creates a sense of unity and togetherness among attendees, and its organizers strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for everyone. There are many activities and events to enjoy at the festival, such as art installations, workshops, and fire shows. The festival also has a unique night program that includes colorful light shows, laser shows, and fireworks.
The festival’s organizers take sustainability seriously and are committed to making Ozora Festival a green event. They have implemented a waste management system and a recycling system to reduce environmental impact. They also encourage attendees to use reusable water bottles and to bring their own camping gear. Ozora Festival is truly a unique and unforgettable experience for music lovers and those seeking a special kind of experience.
MoDem Festival 2025 - Croatia
Next Date: 04 August - 10 August 2025
In the heart of Croatia lies MoDem Festival, an annual darkpsy and hi-tech music extravaganza that has been captivating audiences since its inception in 2012. With three immersive stages – The Hive, The Seed, and The Swamp – MoDem Festival promises an unparalleled experience for dark music enthusiasts.
This 2024 edition boasted an impressive array of talent, featuring artists such as Yabba Dabba, Phobos, Microdot, Justin Chaos, Giuseppe, Fagin's Reject, Dust, Beardy, Electrypnose, Triforce, Breger, and many more.
The festival spans 7 days, showcasing the best in psychedelic sub-genres like darkpsy, hi-tech, zenonesque, dubstep, and beyond. Nestled in the middle of a forest, MoDem Festival creates a distinctive ambiance that adds to the overall allure of the event.
In addition to the various dancefloors, MoDem Festival offers attendees the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge by the crystal-clear waters surrounding the venue. Take a break and immerse yourself in the refreshing experience of swimming, creating a harmonious blend of music, nature, and relaxation.
Free Earth Festival 2025 – Greece
Next Date: 25 August - 31 August 2025
Set against the backdrop of the sun-kissed beaches of North Greece, Free Earth is not just a music event; it's a one-of-a-kind beach festival that immerses attendees in a unique blend of rhythmic beats and breathtaking natural surroundings. The festival, spanning five days, invites psytrance travellers to experience the magic of music in a setting unlike any other.
What makes Free Earth Festival stand out is its distinct fusion of a vibrant music lineup with the serene ambiance of a beach location. As festival-goers dance beneath the starlit sky with the gentle sounds of the waves in the background, the immersive experience becomes a harmonious blend of music and nature. The festival has faced some criticism, which can hopefully be addressed.
The 2024 edition featured a number of impressive names including Infected Mushroom (Retro set), Man With No Name, Tristan, Eat Static, GMS, Phaxe, Gaudi, Space Cat, Giuseppe, Rising Dust, Earthling, Emok, Fungus Funk, Daksinamurti, Dekel, Lucas and more. TAS visuals will also be handling the projections for some beautiful eye-candy.
Hadra Trance Festival 2025 – France
Next Date: 28 August - 31 August 2025
Hadra Trance Festival is an annual electronic music festival held in France, near the Swiss border. The event features a variety of music from psychedelic trance to progressive trance and has been running since 2002.
The festival takes place in the beautiful Savoie region of France and features multiple stages, as well as a chill area. It attracts an international crowd of trance music fans who come to enjoy the music, the people, and the beautiful surroundings.
Hadra Trance Festival is known for its cutting-edge lineup of electronic music acts, many of whom are well-known in the trance music scene. The festival is also known for its colourful decorations, which help to create an immersive and unique experience for the attendees.
As well as the music, the Hadra Trance Festival also offers a range of activities and workshops for attendees. These activities include yoga, meditation, and even a movie night. This helps to create a holistic and diverse atmosphere at the festival, which is something that makes it stand out from some electronic music festivals. The festival also has a sustainability focus, with solar panels being used to power the event and a focus on recycling and eco-friendly practices.
Insomnia Festival 2025 – Portugal
Next Date: 29 August - 31 August 2025
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Portugal, Insomnia Electronic Music & Arts Festival is a must for avid psychedelic trance lovers who find themselves in Portugal. This 24-hour party has become a highlight for psytrance enthusiasts in Portugal, offering a full-throttle experience with Funktion-One sound system.
Having left an indelible mark on the global scene, Insomnia Festival has gained substantial recognition. The 2024 edition drew an impressive crowd, fostering an electrifying atmosphere with a diverse lineup of international and local talent.
Renowned for its mesmerizing stage decor, the festival creates a kaleidoscopic visual feast that complements the sonic journey experienced by attendees.
Indian Spirit Festival 2025 – Germany
Next Date: 27 August - 01 September 2025
While some psytrance enthusiasts may dub Indian Spirit Festival as a commercial event, it's undeniably challenging to dispute the allure of its stellar lineup featuring some of the biggest names in psytrance and progressive psytrance.
The last edition featued heavyweights such as 1200 Micrograms, Altruism, Arjuna, Astral Project, Avalon, Bliss, Burn in Noise, Dickster, Freedom Fighters, Imagine Mars, Laughing Buddha, Mad Maxx, Mandragora, Morten Granau, Neelix, Omiki, Phaxe, Tristan, and many more.
Indian Spirit Festival has solidified its status as a must-attend event, drawing a substantial crowd of 15,000 to 20,000 guests annually. This impressive attendance is a testament to the festival's widespread appeal, attracting enthusiasts from diverse corners of the globe to the picturesque surroundings of Eldena, Germany.
Taking place at the end of summer, Indian Spirit Festival marks the perfect culmination of the season, allowing attendees to bid farewell to the warmer months with one last dance outdoors.
Universo Paralello Festival 2025 / 2026 – Brazil
Next Date: 27 December 2025 - 3 January 2026
While Universo Paralello is usually a biennial festival, the team have indicated they will be returning for 2025 - 2026 NYE. Universo Paralello Festival is a large EDM festival held in Brazil. It has been running since 2001 and is considered one of the biggest NYE festivals in the world, attracting more than 25,000 guests.
The festival kicks off on the 27th December and takes you straight into 2026 until 3 January - essentially giving you a week in paradise. The stunning location known as Pratigi Beach is just outside the city of Salvador. The festival features various activities including numerous stages, workshops, activities and more.
The festival is famous for its huge main stage, which can accommodate up to 25,000 people and features some of the biggest names in EDM. Alongside the music, the festival also boasts a range of art installations, workshops, yoga and massage tents, and a variety of interactive activities.
For fans of EDM and psychedelic music, Universo Paralello has become a core reason for many people travelling to Brazil during this time of year. The festival is a great way to know the local Brazilian culture. With its unique atmosphere, beautiful beach setting and diverse lineups, Universo Paralello Festival is a must for any music lover.
Antaris Project 2025 – Germany
Next Date: July 2026
Antaris Project, one of Germany's most iconic psychedelic trance festivals, celebrated its 28th anniversary in 2024, marking nearly three decades of vibrant music, art, and community.
Known for its motto, "Against War! For Friendship, Peace and Freedom," the festival has become a symbol of unity and positivity, attracting thousands of enthusiasts worldwide.
In a recent announcement, the organizers shared that the festival will take a break in 2025 to recharge and innovate, with plans to return in 2026 stronger than ever. This decision underscores their dedication to maintaining the festival's unique spirit and ensuring its long-term sustainability. Fans eagerly await its triumphant comeback.
ZNA Gathering 2026 – Portugal
Next Date: 15 July - 22 July 2026
ZNA Gathering is a retro-futuristic and goa trance festival that takes place every second year in Portugal. Founded in 2006, ZNA draws an international crowd of retro-lovers from around the world. The music is quite different from mainstream festivals, focusing on goa, retro, and other unique genres, creating a one-of-a-kind experience.
The festival is split into two main sections: the ‘main stage’, featuring a mix of trance, progressive, and techno, and the ‘underground stage’, which highlights harder, more experimental sounds. Both stages showcase top international DJs and live performances.
While the festival will not take place in 2025, organizers have confirmed its return in 2026, promising an even more spectacular experience for its loyal community. Fans eagerly anticipate its comeback, ready to celebrate the festival’s distinctive spirit once again.
