A First-Timer’s Experience at Tomorrowland Belgium

If you’ve ever debated whether or not to attend Tomorrowland in Belgium, this article is for you. And if you’ve already been — whether once or multiple times — and want to relive the magic and nostalgia of your first experience, this one’s for you too.

Ten years after attending my first major music festival, I finally fulfilled a dream: I went to Tomorrowland. Spoiler alert: I’m already counting the days to go back next year.

Let’s get straight to the point — because I know you’re wondering: What happened with the mainstage fire?

Yes, it happened. Less than 48 hours before the festival started, the mainstage caught fire — an unexpected twist that changed everything. Not knowing what to expect, I flew to Brussels just hoping the event wouldn’t be canceled and that I could finally experience my first Tomorrowland.

But the Tomorrowland team? They worked miracles. Against all odds, they pulled off what seemed impossible and made the festival happen. Sure, the original mainstage would’ve been stunning to see live. But the fact that the festival wasn’t canceled — and even more, that a new stage was built so last-minute — created an overwhelming sense of gratitude and unity unlike anything I’ve felt at a festival before. Everywhere you looked — guests, crew, DJs — everyone was buzzing with appreciation just to be there. It elevated the energy to a whole new level. It was living proof that even in uncertain times, Tomorrowland is never a bad idea. Trust in their team — they genuinely live their motto: Live Today, Love Tomorrow, Unite Forever.

But let’s be clear: Tomorrowland’s greatness isn’t about just the mainstage. It’s about all the stages. So get ready to walk — because every corner of this festival is worth discovering. Even the stages that don’t match your usual music taste are worth checking out. The level of detail and care in every design makes each one a unique, immersive experience.

Some of My Favorite Stages

• Freedom Stage – Packed with cutting-edge visuals, screens everywhere, and a massive structure that feels like a full-blown futuristic arena. It’s a must-see, especially for first-timers.
• The Great Library – This literary-themed stage could easily be a mainstage at any other festival. It’s ambitious, and beautifully designed — a true tribute to “Tomorrowland’s library” of sound.
• The Crystal Garden – My personal favorite. A floating, dreamlike wonderland combining laser lights, water fountains, and lush greenery. This stage is pure magic. Pro tip: experience it three times — in the afternoon, at sunset, and at night. Each time, it transforms completely, offering an entirely new vibe. It’s a 10/10 experience every single time.

Let’s Talk Essentials: Food & Restrooms

There’s nothing worse than ruining your festival experience because you’re hungry or uncomfortable. Luckily, Tomorrowland thought of everything. With over 50 food vendors and unique restaurants to choose from, you’ll never go hungry — unless you want to. Must-tries? The iconic Belgian fries (don’t skip the local sauces!), the butterfly-shaped Belgian waffle, and their delicious burgers.

As for restrooms — something most festivals get wrong — Tomorrowland quietly excels. Clean, well-maintained, and easy to find, they make one of the least glamorous parts of any festival surprisingly stress-free. It’s the kind of attention to detail that adds up and enhances the overall experience.

My Top 3 Moments

• Axwell b2b Sebastian Ingrosso b2b Steve Angello (aka Swedish House Mafia) — their 3-hour closing set at the Crystal Garden was unforgettable. I danced non-stop, sang every classic at the top of my lungs, and was completely overwhelmed with joy and goosebumps. The energy in the crowd was electric — we were all in sync, all the People of Tomorrow, united by the music.
• The new friends you make – Good vibes attract good vibes. Every day, I met new people at different sets, and we connected. We danced, laughed, and now? We follow each other on social media, and we are making plans to reunite next year. That’s the magic of Tomorrowland.
• Crystal Garden at night – This stage left a lasting mark on me. Open-air but intimate, visually stunning, and immersive from every angle, it felt like stepping into another world. Standing in front of this floating, enchanted space, I realized: this is what sets Tomorrowland apart. Pure magic.

Every Tomorrowland edition is unique. But I hope that my first-time experience gives you that little extra push to finally take the leap. Go next year. Be able to tell your friends, “I finally went to Tomorrowland — and it was everything I imagined, and more.”