Updated October 2026: This is a personal story about a first Defqon.1 in 2015, and the details apply to that time. You can read about what it looks like today on the pages about Defqon.1 2027, the tickets and getting there. You will find practical tips in the guide First time at Defqon.1.
The time had come, we were there! It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life, and I had been hyping it up! I had imagined how many people there would be, but oh my god, so many people. A swarm of people spread out to find their spot. Everyone was there for the same thing: music, community and freedom. The music rumbled in the background from the festival while I pitched my tent in the camp next to my new friends. The freedom to be yourself and let go of every inhibition to go all in. This was it, it was time, it had started.
I barely know how to describe the feelings I had that weekend. All the new people I got to know. All the new faces that will shine through my memories until I am old and wrinkled. No, you know what, I will keep going even then. That feeling of euphoric freedom I get there is something my future carers will have to fight to keep me away from. I will be standing at Black with my walking frame, dancing as if it were my last weekend on this earth.
I do not see my first festival as just a trip but also as a personal journey. I went from being nervous among a crowd of strangers waiting for the bus to having memories and friends for life. Friends I have shared many similar experiences with in my years as an active festivalgoer.
Sometimes, when I think about what I took away from that weekend, I get a bit lost in my thoughts. I think of Defqon.1's Saturday End Show, where the day is wrapped up in a magical fireworks show. I think of the sore muscles after 3 days of intense dancing. I think of the Coretours camp, where so many new friendships were made.
To think that the only obstacle I saw before I went was that it seemed expensive. Looking back now, I can only say two words: worth it. The memories I have made every summer since 2015 are worth paying a lot more for. Worth it.
Will I go again? You bet. See you there in 2019!
