Psytrance festivals have become a global phenomenon, with people from all over the world travelling to experience the high-energy music and vibrant atmosphere.
A psytrance festival is a type of music festival that focuses on psytrance music. Psytrance is a type of electronic dance music that originated in the late 1980s and early 1990s in Goa, India.
Psytrance festivals are an immersive experience and usually including performances from live acts and DJs, other fun activities to do including workshops, seminars, art installations and yoga. They typically take place over several days and include multiple stages with a variety of music (including other electronic genres).
In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the best psytrance festivals in the world and what makes them so special. From stunning locations to unforgettable lineups, these festivals bring together some of the biggest names in psytrance and provide an unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to attend.
So if you’re looking for a wild and memorable weekend of music and dancing, look no further than these amazing psytrance festivals. Since you might not have the time to read through the entire festival calendar, we’ve shortlisted some of the best you can attend in 2024.
Universo Paralello Festival 2023 / 2024 – Brazil
Next Date: 27 December 2023 - 3 January 2024
Universo Paralello Festival is an annual 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 2023 and takes you straight into 2024 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. Every night is concluded with a massive firework display.
Universo Paralello Festival has become a must-visit event for EDM fans from all over the world, with many people travelling to Brazil for the occasion. The festival is also a great way to get to know the culture and people of Brazil, giving attendees an experience that they won’t forget. With its unique atmosphere, beautiful setting, and incredible music, Universo Paralello Festival is an unforgettable experience.
Origin Festival 2024 – South Africa
Next Date: 26 January - 28 January 2024
Origin Festival is an annual music event held in Cape Town, South Africa. It has been running since 2015 and has quickly become one of the most popular music festivals in the region. The festival is held at Elandskloof Guest Farm
and features a variety of genres, including psychedelic trance, techno, house and other forms of electronic music.
Origin Festival is an event that celebrates the diversity and culture of the Cape Town community. It showcases a variety of local and international performers, including established and emerging artists. The event also includes a variety of food stalls, bars, and vendors. Visitors to the festival can enjoy a range of activities and experiences, ranging from live music, art installations, and educational workshops.
Origin Festival is an event that is sure to be a memorable experience. It features some of the best music acts from around the world, as well as a selection of activities and experiences for all ages. The event also provides a great opportunity for locals and visitors alike to explore the culture and history of Cape Town. It is no wonder why the Origin Festival has become such a popular event in the region.
Origin Festival features two different dance floors, with the former focusing on psychedelic and progressive music. The latter Beats stage nestled in the woods focuses on techno, house, disco and ambient music. There’s always a ton of visionary arts and popups prominent throughout the Origin Festival grounds, which makes the Helderstroom region even more beautiful.
Hill Top Festival 2024 - India
Next Date: 08 February - 10 February 2024
Hill Top Festival is an annual event held in Goa, India, in the months of January and February. It is a celebration of Goan culture and the beautiful landscape, and the festival showcases the traditional dances, music, and cuisine, as well as an array of art and crafts. The festival is held in the picturesque hilltop village of Vagator, and it is a great opportunity for tourists and locals alike to experience a unique blend of Goan culture and modern entertainment.
Hill Top Festival features a variety of exciting activities, including live performances from famous artists, traditional dance and music shows, and a range of exhibitions from local artisans. There are also stalls selling delicious Goan street food, and visitors can explore the nearby markets and take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The festival is a great way to experience the vibrant culture of Goa, and it is a great opportunity to meet new people and explore the local area.
Hill Top Festival is an amazing event to attend, and it is a great way to experience the unique culture of Goa. There is something for everyone to enjoy, and it is a great opportunity to explore the local area and have a lot of fun. If you are looking for a unique experience in India, then Hill Top Festival should definitely be on your list.
Esoteric Festival 2024 – Australia
Next Date: 08 March - 12 March 2024
Esoteric Festival in Donald, Victoria is an enchanting celebration of music, art, and community. Held over the Labour Day Weekend in March 2024, this vibrant event takes place amidst the picturesque Australian countryside.
With a diverse lineup of local and international artists, mesmerizing art installations, and a welcoming atmosphere, it promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace the mild and pleasant March weather as you immerse yourself in this magical bush doof that unites people from all walks of life.
Earth Frequency Festival 2024 – Australia
Next Date: 03 May - 06 May 2024
Earth Frequency Festival is a music, arts, lifestyle and environmental festival based in South-East Queensland, Australia, with a strong focus on arts, education, healing and community spirit. Some might refer to them as bush doofs.
From its origins as a small party in 2005, Earth Frequency has now become one of Australia’s foremost transformational gatherings. At Earth Frequency, you can always expect an amazing mixture of live and electronic music, performance, visionary art, workshops and lectures, a family and kids space, fantastic food and markets area, and of course a positive community vibe.
The beautiful outdoor venue features top-notch facilities, comfortable campgrounds, and it is conveniently located under an hour from Brisbane and just 20 minutes from Ipswich.
Festival Ometeotl 2024 – Mexico
Next Date: 22 March - 24 March 2024
Festival Ometeotl is an annual event that takes place in Morelos, México. The festival is a celebration of culture and traditions and is believed to bring good luck and protection to the people. It is held during the month of March and consists of a number of activities such as traditional dances, music, and rituals.
The festival is based on the belief that the gods of the Aztec pantheon have chosen a person to represent them in the physical world and to act as their messenger. This person is known as Ometeotl and is thought to bring good luck to the people and ensure the safety of the community. During the festival, the people of the community come together to honor this figure and to perform traditional rituals such as offerings and sacrifices. They also come together to dance and sing traditional songs and to enjoy traditional food.
Psychedelic Experience Open Air 2024 - Germany
Next Date: 30 May - 02 June 2024
One of the undisputed champions on this celestial circuit is none other than the Psychedelic Experience Open Air Festival in Germany. They're gearing up to mark "20 Years of Psychedelic Experience" in 2024. From May 30th to June 2nd, they're rolling out the trippy red carpet for a global crew of party animals and top-tier artists. Think of it as a three-day, four-night voyage where reality and imagination collide in the most euphoric dance-off under the stars. With stages that morph from day to night, you'll find yourself grooving around the clock, and don't even get me started on their Ambient Garden. It's like stepping into a dreamy oasis, complete with mind-bending décor that's sure to keep your senses tingling.
Burning Mountain Festival 2024 – Switzerland
Next Date: 20 June - 27 June 2024
The unique location lies in the Engadin Valley of the Swiss Alps, one of the highest inhabited valleys of Europe, home to 1000 people. Following the end of the ice age, an 80-kilometre long valley opened up in the modern Swiss canton of Graubünden, at a height of 1,800 metres above sea level. It’s a perfect location for a psytrance festival!
Antaris Project 2024 – Germany
Next Date: 12 July - 14 July 2024
Celebrating their 28th anniversary in 2024, Antaris Projekt (Against War! For Friendship, Peace and Freedom) is one of the earlier psytrance festivals in the [German] season and is known to be a welcoming environment for the whole family and foreign visitors.
Antaris Project is an annual electronic music festival that takes place in Germany. It is well-known in the psychedelic trance and electronic music communities. The festival is known for its vibrant atmosphere, colorful decorations, and a lineup of international and local DJs and artists who play various genres of electronic music, with a focus on psychedelic trance.
The festival typically features multiple stages, each offering a different style of electronic music, workshops, art installations, and a sense of community and togetherness among attendees. Over the years, the Antaris Project has gained a reputation for being one of the longest-running and most respected psychedelic trance festivals in Europe.
ZNA Gathering 2024 – Portugal
Next Date: 14 July - 21 July 2024
ZNA Gathering is a retro-futuristic and goa trance festival held 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 and is a unique experience.
The festival is split up into two main sections: the ‘main stage’, which is a mixture of trance, progressive and techno, and the ‘underground stage’, which focuses on harder, more experimental sounds. Both stages offer a variety of DJs and live performances from the best international talent in the industry.
ZNA Gathering also has a unique atmosphere that makes it stand out from the crowd. It’s a celebration of music and culture, with a great party atmosphere and a diverse crowd. With stunning visuals, top-notch sound systems, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, the ZNA Gathering is an unmissable event for music lovers.
Shankra Festival 2024 – Switzerland
Next Date: July 2024
Shankra Festival is an annual music and arts event that takes place in Switzerland. It is a celebration of music, art, and culture that brings together people from all over the world. The festival was first held in 2017, and since then has grown to become one of the most popular music festivals in Europe.
The event takes place in the Swiss Alps, and features some of the best electronic music acts from around the world. Artists from all over the globe come to take part in the festival, and the lineup is always eclectic and diverse. The festival also features a variety of art installations and sculptures, which provide a unique visual experience for attendees.
Shankra Festival is also known for its incredible visuals and light shows. Professional light and sound engineers are on hand to ensure the best possible experience for attendees. In addition, the festival also features an array of interactive activities, as well as food and drink vendors. The festival has become a popular destination for people from all over the world, and it is a great opportunity to experience Swiss culture and music in a unique and exciting way.
Noisily Festival of Music & Arts 2024 – UK
Next Date: 11 July - 14 July 2024
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.
S.U.N Festival 2024 – Hungary
Next Date: July 2024
S.U.N Festival, which stands for Solar United Natives Festival, is an annual outdoor psychedelic trance music and arts festival founded in 2013 – with this year being their 10 year anniversary celebration. It takes place in Hungary and is known for its vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, as well as its emphasis on sustainability and environmental consciousness.
S.U.N Festival is renowned for its stunning natural location, typically held in a picturesque setting surrounded by lush forests, meadows, and a beautiful lake. The organizers strive to create an immersive experience, with colorful and interactive art installations, live performances, workshops, and healing spaces. Participants can engage in various activities like yoga, meditation, and dance workshops, as well as explore alternative therapies and holistic practices.
One of the festival’s core principles is sustainability. S.U.N Festival promotes eco-friendly practices and encourages attendees to minimize their impact on the environment. This includes waste reduction, recycling initiatives, and the use of renewable energy sources. The festival organizers actively collaborate with local communities to ensure a harmonious relationship with the natural surroundings.
Eclipse Festival 2024 – Canada
Next Date: TBC
While North America isn’t particularly known for trance parties, Eclipse Festival have been around for more than 15 years and are worthy of adding to your bucket list.
The five-day Canadian festival takes place in an enchanted site of Bonnet Rouge Rafting in Sainte-Thérèse-de-la-Gatineau during a solar eclipse.
VooV Experience 2024 – Germany
Next Date: 19 July - 22 July 2024
VooV Festival 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 2024 - Hungary
Next Date: 26 July - 06 August 2024
Ozora Festival in Hungary is one of the most popular music festivals in Europe, with about 40,000 tickets sold for the 2023 edition. 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 2024 - Croatia
Next Date: 05 August - 11 August 2024
Modem Festival is a darkpsy and hi-tech festival in Croatia that has been taking place since 2012. The festival is held over the course of three days and features more extreme sub-genres such as darkpsy, zenonesque, dubstep, and more. The festival takes place in the depths of nature, providing a unique aesthetic and atmosphere for those who attend.
Modem Festival is a great choice for darkpsy lovers. The festival offers a wide selection of DJs and live acts that specialize in darkpsy, as well as a variety of workshops and lectures. The festival also has a unique vibrancy, thanks to the combination of music, art, and fashion. The atmosphere is incredibly welcoming and encourages exploration and experimentation.
Finally, Modem Festival is a great option for darkpsy lovers because it provides a safe and open environment for expression. The festival has an open door policy, which allows attendees to express themselves in whatever way they feel comfortable. This is something not found at many other festivals, making Modem Festival the perfect choice for darkpsy lovers who want to express their love for the genre.
Free Earth Festival 2024 – Greece
Next Date: 27 August - 01 September 2024
As Free Earth Festival 2024 has announced a return to Asprovalta, Greece, it's evident that the event organizers have taken constructive feedback from the previous year's attendees to heart, aiming to further improve the festival experience. With its unique stages, beautiful beach setting, and dedication to maintaining a welcoming and positive atmosphere, Free Earth Festival 2024 promises to be an event not to be missed. If you're looking for a diverse and enriching festival experience in a picturesque location, mark your calendars for another unforgettable year at Free Earth Festival in Asprovalta, Greece.
Indian Spirit Festival 2024 – Germany
Next Date: 28 August - 02 September 2024
Indian Spirit Festival is a German festival that takes place at the end of August in the North. It is a more commercial festival, similar to an EDM festival, that attracts between 15,000 and 20,000 guests. The lineup is generally stacked, however expect shorter set times.
The lineup boasts legendary artists like Vini Vici, Aura Vortex, Ranji, Liquid Soul, Astrix, Reality Test, Skazi, Electric Universe, Neelix, Ace Ventura, Infected Mushroom, Dickster, GMS, Ritmo, Tristan, Avalon, Rinkadink, Dekel, Captain Hook and more,
Beyond the music, there are some chill sections, food stalls and traders available. Don't expect too many workshops and talks at this event. While this might not be the most authentic psychedelic experience, it's still a great way to see the biggest artists.
Hadra Trance Festival 2024 – France
Next Date: August 2023
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 an outdoor 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. Hadra Trance Festival 2023 includes Braincell, Earthspace, Loom, Magik, Melting Point, Mogwai, Oxyflux and more. as well as up-and-coming local acts. The festival is also known for its colorful 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 other 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 2024 – Portugal
Next Date: 30 August - 01 September 2024
Insomnia Festival takes place in rural northern Portugal, about 3km from the town of São Gião. It has been around for over a decade and has become a popular favourite for locals.
The four-day experience takes place in the beautiful forest right on the river of Alva. Insomnia 2023 is already 70% sold out and features artists like Man With No Name, GMS, Mad Tribe, Virtual Light and more.
Mushroom Valley Festival 2024 – Australia
Next Date: 13 September - 15 September 2024
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the O'Connell River, Mushroom Valley Festival 2023 welcomes all to celebrate life's wonders and embrace new experiences. This bushdoof is a chance to dance to an eclectic blend of genres, explore mesmerizing art installations, and find solace in healing sanctuaries. This year the lineup includes Headroom, Thomas Schumacher, Stickybuds, Terrafractyl, Grouch in Dub, Hypnagog and more.
From family-friendly activities to culinary delights and a serene Chill Stage, Mushroom Valley offers a transformative escape where you can recharge your spirit, connect with diverse souls, and discover the magic of September's perfect weather.
Mandallah Festival 2024 – Brazil
Next Date: October 2024
Mandallah Festival is renowned for its eclectic celebration of progressive and psychedelic trance music. It brings together a diverse community of festival-goers, artists, and healers, creating an atmosphere of unity and exploration for 1 day of fun.
The festival embraces a holistic approach, blending various forms of art and practices to provide a transformative journey for attendees. It is arguably one of the largest festivals in Brazil, attracting a large local crowd of fans over the past 2 decades.
Boom Festival 2025 - Portugal
Next Date: 17 July - 24 July 2025
Boom Festival is a biennial music and arts festival in Portugal that has been running since 1997. Although the festival only happens every two years, it took place in 2022 and 2023, due to the pandemic. The next edition of Boom Festival will be in 2025.
Boom Festival is held in the beautiful Alentejo region, near Idanha-a-Nova, and is renowned for its immersive and unique experience. The festival is known for its celebration of art, culture, spirituality and sustainability, and offers something for everyone with its diverse range of activities – even for kids.
Over 1 week, you will get to experience some of the most popular artists at the moment, across various stages including the Dance Temple, Alchemy Circle and Funky Beach Stage.
Boom Festival is an incredibly vibrant event, with a wide range of music styles and stages. There is something for everyone, from techno and house to the more traditional folk music of Portugal. There are also plenty of workshops, talks and activities to take part in, such as yoga, dance and meditation classes, as well as performances from circus acts and fire dancers. The festival also offers interactive art installations, with many of the artworks created by renowned artists from around the world.
Boom Festival is also committed to sustainability, and aims to reduce the environmental impact of the event. This is achieved through initiatives such as the use of renewable energy sources, careful management of waste, and the promotion of sustainable travel options. The festival also supports local communities and businesses, and has worked closely with the inhabitants of the region to ensure that local customs and traditions are respected.
Boom Festival is an incredible event which offers something for everyone. With its vibrant atmosphere and celebration of culture, art and sustainability, it is one of the most unique and exciting music festivals in Europe.
The land of Boom Festival is truly one of the most beautiful landscapes in Portugal, which offers a nearby visit of the historic village of Monsanto and is integrated within Geoparque Naturtejo – a zone which has been classified by UNESCO.
