By Andrés Muñoz
Tomorrowland is one of the top music festival brands in the world. What began as a tiny event in Boom, Belgium, has mushroomed into a logistical behemoth, bringing in almost half a million people yearly. It is a major event that gathers electronic music enthusiasts from every place on the planet.
With its 16 stages, which host 600+ DJs, and all the extras you can imagine, Tomorrowland is a must-visit destination for EDM fans. Let’s review some recent developments in the Tomorrowland universe and see what lies ahead as it plans to arrive in the Southeast Asian region in 2026.
Tomorrowland Abroad And Thailand News
The Tomorrowland brand has made several attempts to replicate its events in other parts of the world, to mixed success. Some of these locations have been the United States (TomorrowWorld ceased in 2016), the French Alps (the small and exclusive Tomorrowland Winter), Tomorrowland Brazil (check the article and decide for yourself!), an upcoming event in Colombia in mid-2024, and more.
The latest rumour was an announcement from Thailand’s government spokesman, Chai Wacharonke, that Tomorrowland plans to host a festival there in 2026. As Lifestyle Collective’s appointed Tomorrowland correspondent, I had to get to the bottom of this.
While Thailand seems to be moving its pieces as a response to the Singaporean government’s six-day exclusivity contract with Taylor Swift’s 2024 concert tour, the Tomorrowland organisation was quick to clear any rumours, with spokeswoman Debbie Wilmsen indicating that they’re still only on an investigative phase:
“Deeply touched by the warm support, we must clarify the recent speculation: nothing has been officially confirmed or signed at this time. The Tomorrowland team is diligently conducting thorough research and exploration to assess the feasibility of hosting Tomorrowland in Thailand. There is still much to be investigated.”
So, if it still needs to be confirmed, are there other epic live events to look forward to in Southeast Asia?
The Options Right Here Right Now
It is safe to say that the longstanding rumours of a Southeast Asian Tomorrowland (I heard the Thailand story as early as 2019) will take a while to become a reality. However, there is no reason not to visit before then!
I consulted up-and-coming Malaysian DJ and music festival enthusiast Sun.raeeee for regional recommendations. Here are some of her top suggestions:
It’s The Ship: All Aboard!
Who said all festivals must take place on land? It’s The Ship takes the party to the seas by combining the experiences of a classic cruise and a music festival. With multiple stages, pool parties, themed nights, and onboard activities, It’s The Ship will host its first Korean version in late May 2024!
Festival-goers can party 24/7 and enjoy a cruise experience like no other. Furthermore, this upcoming cruise has some pretty big names, including Da Tweekaz, Tchami, Yellow Claw and Amber Broos.
Wonderfruit: Beyond The Music
Every December, a massive gathering occurs at Siam Country Club outside Pattaya, Thailand. As its name indicates, Wonderfruit’s entire ethos is to stimulate its visitors’ minds. As they suggest in their Declaration of Wonder: “Our vision is to develop a space for creators, partners and our community to explore and deepen the connection between the mind and nature and to grow through it.”
Wonderfruit is not just a music festival. It’s a gathering where people can explore art, culture, nature, wellness, and many other elements through performances, installations, talks, feasts, and socially oriented projects that sprout up all around the gathering.
With its 2023 report indicating that 55% of its attendants are aged between 25 and 34 and a considerable 31% between 35 and 44, Wonderfruit is less of a wild party and more of a mature and holistic experience.
Get Wet At S20!
Finally, let’s go over one of the key cultural celebrations marking the New Year in Thailand: Songkran. The event occurs in mid-April, and water is a significant element in the celebration. Massive water fights take place all over the country.
Locals and tourists are armed with water guns and buckets, washing away the past year’s misfortunes and cleansing the new year with fresh beginnings. The festival’s more traditional parts include offering Buddhist monks food and pouring water over Buddha statues.
How does this connect to a music festival? S2O Songkran Music Festival mixes tradition with electronic dance music! Unlike Wonderfruit, this is not for the faint of heart. Apart from water fights, attendees enjoy sets played by prominent DJs (this year’s edition has big names like Illenium, The Chainsmokers, Armin Van Buuren, and more) and are thrilled by the water cannons, foam parties, and high-energy performances. It is one of Thailand’s most anticipated music events!
So, while Tomorrowland might take a while to arrive, there are plenty of thrilling options to enjoy in the region in the meantime. What other events would you recommend? Let us know in the comments section below!