Tomorrowland, one of the world’s largest and most iconic music festivals, may face a hefty €2 million fine due to its continued use of disposable cups. Despite the laws in the Belgian region of Flanders mandating the use of reusable materials at events, Tomorrowland organizers have not fully complied. The festival’s decision to not utilize reusable cups throughout most of its main festival grounds has brought them under scrutiny.

The laws regarding the use of reusable cups have been in effect since June of last year. While Tomorrowland received an exemption for its 2023 edition due to having disposable cups in stock, this year, the festival was not granted a similar leniency. Flemish Environment Minister Zuhal Demir denied the exemption requests three times, stating that the festival did not provide sufficient evidence to justify their case. “Tomorrowland is a fantastic festival that is also a small multinational. With a name like that, you should be a champion of good environmental policy,” Demir remarked.

In response to the potential fine, Tomorrowland has decided to implement reusable cups backstage and in VIP areas. However, organizers claim it is “not feasible” to extend this practice across the entire festival. Tomorrowland spokeswoman Debby Willemsen expressed disappointment over not receiving another exemption, stating, “We were hoping to get another exemption because we had argued our case well. When that didn’t happen, it was too late to change our plans. We are now waiting for the invoice.”

As Tomorrowland awaits the final decision, the festival’s commitment to sustainability and compliance with environmental regulations remains under close watch. The outcome could set a significant precedent for future large-scale events in Flanders and beyond.

The renowned Dutch DJ Hardwell thrilled fans with an electrifying EDM classics set, closing out the first day of Tomorrowland on the Freedom Stage. Hardwell took to Instagram in June, engaging fans by asking them what kind of set they’d like to hear at the Belgium festival. “Playing the Freedom Stage @tomorrowland on 19 July means the Freedom to do something different. What kinda set would you like me to play?!” he inquired.

Among the various suggestions, the overwhelming favorite was “Golden era of EDM 2012-2014,” garnering over 600 likes. Hardwell delivered an unforgettable performance, starting with his 2016 collaboration ‘Live the Night’ with W&W and Lil Jon. Over the next hour, he dropped iconic EDM tracks such as the W&W remix of Avicii’s ‘Levels’ and Dada Life’s ‘Kickout The Epic Motherf**ker,’ paying tribute to the late Avicii.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve performed a proper old-skool set, so it felt good to get back on the decks and play all those classics and big jam anthems,” Hardwell told DJ Mag. He expressed the joy of rediscovering old records that fueled his passion for dance music, describing it as an inspiring journey that has influenced both his DJ sets and studio productions.

Hardwell’s set was a nostalgic journey, bringing joy and energy to the crowd, who danced and sang along to the classic hits. This unique set, driven by fan input, was a testament to Hardwell’s connection with his audience and his ability to deliver unforgettable performances.

Last month, Hardwell released ‘Move,’ the opening track from his Ultra Miami festival set, and celebrated his hometown Breda’s football team promotion with a full hardstyle set.

In a groundbreaking announcement, Dutch dance music titan Don Diablo has revealed plans for a monumental performance at the iconic Brooklyn Mirage, marking the largest U.S. solo show of his career. Scheduled for August 9th, this event promises to be a night of unparalleled visual and auditory spectacle, thanks in part to a collaboration with Ethan Tobman, the creative mastermind behind Taylor Swift‘s record-breaking “Eras Tour.”

According to a press release shared with EDM.com, Diablo’s team is pulling out all the stops to transform the Brooklyn Mirage into a dazzling display of lights and sound. The open-air venue, celebrated for its state-of-the-art production capabilities, will serve as the perfect backdrop for this ambitious project. Diablo, who recently signed with a visual arts agency to expand his artistic horizons, is eager to showcase an extended set filled with both beloved classics and unreleased tracks.

“I’ve been working harder than ever this year, pushing the boundaries of my sound and exploring new musical territories,” Diablo shared in a statement. “I can’t wait to share this new chapter with my fans in New York. This show will be something truly special.”

Adding to the night’s excitement, the event will feature a performance by Mixmash Records founder Laidback Luke, a pivotal figure in the electronic music scene. Expressing his enthusiasm, Luke posted on Instagram, “I am honored that my friend Don Diablo has invited me to be a part of his VERY special night in NYC. Don is a true artist & visionary who has been a continuous inspiration for me since our early days of touring the world and I can’t wait for you to see the immersive production he has curated for this epic extended set at Brooklyn Mirage!”

With anticipation building, fans are gearing up for a night of unforgettable music and breathtaking production. Diablo’s Brooklyn Mirage show is poised to set a new standard for live electronic music performances.

History was made at this year’s Tomorrowland as 9-year-old DJ Archie became the youngest DJ ever to perform at the renowned festival. The UK prodigy took the Atmosphere stage by storm, playing an electrifying opening set ahead of notable names like Dimension, Lens, and VTSS. Spinning drum & bass classics such as M-Beat and General Levy’s ‘Incredible’ and the Shy FX remix of ‘Chopper’ by The Terrorist, Archie captivated the audience with his impressive skills.

DJ Archie has been turning heads since 2018 when he was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the youngest DJ in the world at just four years and 130 days old. His passion for DJing was ignited by his father, who was also a DJ. In a backstage interview with DJ Mag, Archie recounted the moment he discovered his talent: “My dad was a DJ and one day I turned on his equipment when he was out of the room and I was mixing and it was all in time.”

The young DJ’s performance at Tomorrowland was met with widespread acclaim. Archie shared his excitement about the experience, saying, “When I controlled the crowd, they were all dancing.” His accomplishment breaks the previous record held by Dubai’s DJ Michelle, who performed at the festival last year at the age of 11.

DJ Archie’s journey is a testament to his incredible talent and passion for music. As he continues to break records and set new milestones, the future looks bright for this young artist.