Tomorrowland 2025 began on Friday evening in Boom, Belgium, under exceptional circumstances. Just two days earlier, the festival’s iconic Orbyz Mainstage was destroyed in a massive fire. Despite the damage, organizers decided to proceed as scheduled. A reduced but fully functional replacement stage was constructed in less than 48 hours, using technical components including audio equipment previously employed during Metallica’s world tour, G.Business reports, citing The Brussels Times.

Approximately 38,000 attendees were already present at the campsite by Thursday. Over the course of the opening weekend, more than 400,000 visitors are expected. The festival opened with a performance by Australian electronic duo NERVO, joined later by Meduza, Axwell, Alok, and Martin Garrix. Scheduled acts such as Charlotte de Witte, Solomun, and David Guetta are set to perform throughout the weekend.

The opening night was overshadowed by a fatal incident. A 35-year-old Canadian woman collapsed on the festival grounds on Friday evening. Emergency medical teams treated her on-site before transferring her to the University Hospital of Antwerp, where she was later pronounced dead. On Saturday, prosecutors in Antwerp confirmed the incident and announced the launch of an official investigation. An autopsy has been ordered. Preliminary reports suggest possible substance use, but the exact cause of death remains undetermined.

Festival spokesperson Debby Wilmsen stated that the team was deeply affected by the event. “She received first aid and was then transferred to the hospital. We were informed she passed away there. Our thoughts are with her family,” Wilmsen said.

The stage fire occurred on Wednesday evening during final preparations. Videos shared on social media showed flames engulfing the top sections of the massive structure. No injuries were reported. Authorities said the fire’s origin is still under investigation, and there is no current evidence of foul play.

In response to the incidents, organizers and local authorities increased security and medical resources at the venue. Additional first aid stations were deployed, and a mobile drug testing unit is now in operation. Organizers reported that only a small number of attendees have requested refunds. Most have chosen to remain and continue with the experience.

For many, the emotional toll of the fire and the sudden death has been significant. “We were having dinner when we heard about the fire. It was hard to process,” said an Australian guest. A visitor from Ukraine said the festival is more than just music—it’s about shared atmosphere and a collective dream. Tomorrowland 2025 continues over two weekends and remains one of the largest electronic music festivals in the world.

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