Defqon.1 The Kick-off: all you need to know

Q-dance has just dropped the very first details about the next edition of the world’s biggest hardstyle festival. From the 2026 theme and anthem maker to the 2025 aftermovie and much more. Here’s everything revealed during Defqon.1 The Kick-off.

Warriors, the path to Defqon.1 2026 has started! As tradition goes, Q-dance hosted The Kick-off in early October, the livestream that reveals the first exciting updates for the next edition of Defqon.1. And this year, there’s plenty to talk about.

We already knew the dates: June 25–28, 2026. Four full days of madness, starting with The Gathering on Thursday and closing with the legendary Closing Ceremony on Sunday.

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D-Sturb as the anthem creator of the 2026 edition: "Sacred Oath"

The theme for the upcoming edition of Defqon.1 will be ‘Sacred Oath’. As E-Life, Stephanie Magic & Audiofreq stated, “The Oath is a promise to ourselves to become the best versions of who we are. To love one another and celebrate our dedication to hardstyle. It’s all about staying true to yourself and the tribe. We love the individuality of every warrior. For four days on the holy grounds, no matter where you are from, we come together as one tribe, united by our music. An ecstatic way of life.”

The anthem maker will be none other than D-Sturb. After being at the top of the scene for decades, it’s time to see what Jorrit is able to do to honour the legacy of Defqon.1 anthems.

“I got invited by Q-dance for a walk. Jonas (Q-dance) and I were standing in front of the RED, which wasn’t finished yet. We were looking at it when the question was asked. I immediately realized how special this offer was, and I can’t wait to start working on it!”

The Official Defqon.1 2025 Aftermovie

Still suffering from post-Defqon depression? You’re not alone. Luckily, the official Defqon.1 2025 aftermovie is out now. Last year’s edition was unforgettable, so hit play and keep it on repeat!

The RED Race Returns in 2026

For all aspiring producers dreaming of the RED stage, here’s your chance: The RED Race is back for its second season in 2026! This time, you’ll see both new and familiar faces guiding the producers, Adaro, Frontliner, Phuture Noize, and The Purge will be your coaches.

Applications are now open and will run until November 16, 2025, via Defqon1.com.

More highlights from The Kick-off

- The Spotlight of the BLACK Stage will move to The Gathering on Thursday.
- The Closing Ceremony 2025 (5 hours long) will be released on October 24, 2025.
- The brand-new POWER HOUR 2025 will premiere on November 7, 2025, on the Q-dance YouTube channel.

Ticket Sale Dates for Defqon.1 2026

- DEDIQATED Sale: October 21, 2025
- Travel Sale: October 23, 2025
- General Sale: October 25, 2025

Images via Defqon.1 Weekend Festival