July 18, 2025, Friday, is still happening—but it may look different than originally planned after the devastating Mainstage fire; Tomorrowland organizers have outlined two scenarios for Friday’s highly anticipated opening day.
In an official update issued Thursday, July 17, the team confirmed that hundreds of people are working around the clock to rebuild and secure the festival area. Spirits remain high at DreamVille, where early arrivals have brought joy and energy despite the circumstances.
“It’s a race against time,” the statement reads, “but we’re doing this together with the best and most amazing people in the world.”
To recap, a devastating fire broke out on the Tomorrowland festival grounds in Boom on Wednesday, just days before the event’s official kickoff. The iconic Mainstage was severely damaged in blaze. It’s an architectural and creative centerpiece two years in the making. Reports claim no injuries, but the destruction sent shockwaves through the global dance music community. As emergency services responded swiftly, organizers assured fans the festival would continue. Now, all eyes are on how Tomorrowland will adapt ahead of Friday’s opening.
As of now, two potential scenarios are possible for Friday, pending structural and safety assessments of the Tomorrowland site:
SCENARIO 1:
If the Mainstage area can be secured and a temporary solution completed in time, the entire festival site will open to all ticket types as originally planned.
SCENARIO 2:
If full capacity cannot be safely supported:
- DreamVille and the main festival grounds will operate as two separate zones.
- Mainstage artists scheduled for Friday will perform at The Gathering Stage inside DreamVille.
- DreamVille visitors will stay within the campsite area.
- The festival grounds (excluding Mainstage) will be open to Friday Day Pass holders, Global Journey guests, and Full Madness Pass holders.
In both scenarios, gates will open at 14:00, not 12:00 as originally scheduled. A full reopening for all attendees is likely by Saturday at noon.
Despite the challenges, the message from Tomorrowland is clear: We will unite—no matter the obstacles.
More details by Friday morning, once final safety checks are complete. Updates on tomorrowland.com.