The Flying Dutch festival, renowned for its unique format where artists perform at multiple locations, is set to make its grand return on May 31, 2025, after a six-year hiatus. This time, the festival will take place not only at Amsterdam, but also across three other lively venues: Breepark in Breda, Stadspark in Groningen, and FBK Stadion in Hengelo.
Initially launched in 2015, The Flying Dutch quickly became one of the largest festivals in the Netherlands, attracting 100,000 attendees during its last edition. What makes this festival particularly unique is its tradition of featuring artists who travel via helicopter from one location to another, providing fans with several breathtaking performances throughout the day.
With the tagline "diverser than ever," the festival's organizers have promised expanded diversity and variety this year. While past editions focused primarily on popular Dutch DJs, the upcoming festival will feature talents across various music genres. Leading the diverse line-up is pop sensation André Hazes, alongside famous acts such as Bilal Wahib, Bizzey, Jonna Fraser, the Vengaboys, and many more.
The decision to introduce music genres beyond electronic dance music (EDM) reflects the changing tastes of festival-goers who seek more than just club bangers. According to the festival’s organizers, this year’s structure aims to appeal to broader audiences by embracing everything from house and techno to pop and hip-hop.
The response to the announcement has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans eager to get their hands on tickets. Pre-sale registration opened on February 28, and general ticket sales are set to begin on March 1, starting at €49.95. Fans are allowed entry starting from the age of 12, though those under 18 must be accompanied by adults.
All indications point to The Flying Dutch returning with much anticipation, eager to create memorable experiences with its attendance. With the blend of styles and genres, the festival aims to celebrate the illustrious talent of the Dutch music scene. This year’s event not only marks the festival's return after six years; it's also referenced as \'the festival’s grand revival with renewed purpose\', which suggests attendees can expect exciting performances and unforgettable moments.
The event is particularly significant as it signals the return of large-scale live music events, reminiscent of the vibrant festival culture prior to the pandemic's impact on large gatherings. Those involved hope the festival will serve as both entertainment and revitalization for the music scene, showcasing how it has adapted and expanded since its inception.
Promoters have selected locations known for their rich cultural landscapes. Breepark, known for hosting numerous entertainment events, Stadspark, renowned for its community activities, and FBK Stadion, previously used for high-profile sports events, will all transform temporarily to house the festival. This shift from traditional metropolitan locations like Amsterdam to cities like Groningen and Breda signifies the festival’s commitment to reaching diverse audiences and bringing live music to different regions.
The variety of performances also indicates the organizers' intent for inclusivity within the Dutch music scene. By showcasing artists from various backgrounds and styles, the festival is making strides to blend different musical tastes and broaden its appeal. Visitors will look forward to performances not only from mainstream artists but also supporting acts who reflect the vibrant talent found across the Netherlands.
For the festival’s first editions, it maintained its focus primarily on well-established DJs, capitalizing on the electronic music boom. The shift toward more mainstream pop acts looks to attract attendees who might not have been interested previously or who enjoy discovering new talent.
Organizers have established their vision to create something groundbreaking and contemporary with The Flying Dutch 2025. Under the guidance of creative director Timor Steffens, famous for his eclectic choreography, audiences can expect energetic performances with high production value. Heurls of unique aerial entrances may not only imply high-flying creativity but also initiate excitement each time artists soar above the crowd.
The Flying Dutch festival not only reinstates its status but takes on new meanings—bringing audiences some of the very best talent and making sure every individual feels included within the rich diversity of music. This festival aspires to become the epitome of collaborative entertainment, merging genres and communities like never before, marking significant moments not just for the artists, but for everyone lucky enough to attend.
With The Flying Dutch back on the calendar, anticipation builds as fans celebrate this return to vibrant festival culture. The lineup, ticket sales, and diverse music genre experience reveal evidence of growth and opportunity, ensuring this festival goes down as one of the highlights of summer 2025.