The picturesque Salzburgring in Austria once again transformed into an electronic music paradise as the Electric Love Festival returned for its 2024 edition from July 4-6th. This year’s event proved to be an unforgettable experience, showcasing world-class DJs, stunning production, and the unifying power of music against the backdrop of the breathtaking Austrian Alps.
Photo credit: Nicolai Semrau
A Thunderous Opening
Electric Love Festival kicked off on Thursday with a bang, quite literally. The meticulously planned 16-minute opening ceremony set the tone for the entire weekend, featuring an impressive array of live performances that blended classical and electronic elements. The Philharmonie Salzburg, singer Christina Ortmeier, a local brass band, and the Bakip Borromäum choir provided a unique musical fusion, while breakdancer Luwam Russom, a Red Bull Dance Your Style finalist, wowed the crowd with gravity-defying moves.
This year’s opening ceremony production was helmed by Salzburg artists Dan Lee and RageMode, with longtime curator Felice taking on an advisory role. The result was a spectacular show combining live music, dance, and cutting-edge technology, including the mesmerizing FLYING LIGHTS by FS/TR. As fireworks lit up the night sky, it was clear that Electric Love 2024 was going to be one for the books.
Photo credit: Forin Schmid
Star-Studded Lineup Across Six Stages
With an expanded layout featuring six diverse stages, Electric Love 2024 catered to every electronic music fan’s taste. The main stage hosted EDM heavyweights like Armin van Buuren, The Chainsmokers, and Scooter on the opening night, setting a high bar for the rest of the weekend.
Friday saw Boris Brejcha, Oliver Heldens, and ELF legend Timmy Trumpet grace the main stage, while the Hard Dance Valley pulsated with energy thanks to acts like Rebelion, Rooler, and Brennan Heart. The Club Circus, meanwhile, welcomed Koven, Luude, and Chase & Status for a bass-heavy takeover.
Saturday’s lineup was equally impressive, featuring French superstar DJ Snake, techno wizard Reinier Zonneveld, and a live vocal performance from John Newman. The diversity of talent on display exemplified Electric Love’s commitment to representing the full spectrum of electronic music.
Photo credit: Pikzelz
New Additions and Festival Highlights
A notable addition to this year’s festival was the BlueBoXX stage, showcasing local talent alongside international acts. Each day featured a different curator, with Salzburg’s own Toby Romeo hosting on Thursday and Slashy Disco taking the reins on Saturday.
The festival also featured unique experiences like the ÖBB Roller Disco, playing the “worst of the 90s” and offering roller skate rentals, and The ORGANICS Beach, providing a relaxed daytime atmosphere for attendees to unwind.
For those seeking an elevated experience, the CUPRA Platin VIP Lodge offered premium views and amenities throughout the weekend.
Photo credit: Ricardo Hackl
Overcoming Mother Nature
While the majority of the festival went off without a hitch, Saturday presented an unexpected challenge. A severe thunderstorm with wind gusts up to 100 km/h forced organizers to delay the opening of the festival grounds. Thanks to swift action from the Electric Love team, local authorities, and the cooperation of attendees, the situation was handled safely and efficiently.
Photo Credit: Nicolai Semrau
A Testament to Community and Music
Throughout the weekend, an estimated 180,000 visitors from around the world came together to share in their love of electronic music. The festival’s success in creating a sense of unity and joy, even in the face of challenging weather, speaks volumes about the power of music and the dedication of the Electronic Love community.
The variety of camping options, including a new Comfort Camping area and an expanded Basic Camping with the largest on-site supermarket to date, ensured that attendees had a comfortable home base for their festival experience.
Photo Credit: Ricardo Hackl
Looking Ahead
As the final notes faded and the last fireworks lit up the Salzburg sky, it was clear that Electric Love Festival 2024 had once again raised the bar for electronic music events. The combination of world-class talent, stunning production, and the breathtaking Alpine setting solidified Electric Love’s position as one of Europe’s premier festivals.
As we reflect on the incredible moments from this year’s event, from the awe-inspiring opening ceremony to the resilience shown in the face of Saturday’s weather challenges, it’s clear that the spirit of Electric Love Festival is stronger than ever. This annual gathering in the heart of Austria continues to prove that music has the power to unite, inspire, and create unforgettable memories.
For electronic music fans around the world, Electric Love Festival isn’t just an event – it’s a pilgrimage. And based on the success of the 2024 edition, that pilgrimage is set to continue for years to come.
