The end of an era: the last edition of Qlimax awaits

Saturday (November 16th), Q-dance will write history as 27,500 hardstyle fans from around the world gather one last time at GelreDome in Arnhem for Qlimax: The Final Prophecy. Since the first edition, Qlimax has defined an era, creating memories for life and delivering the best in hardstyle music and performances year after year. As the final chapter is here, this event promises to be a bittersweet farewell for all Qlimax disciples.

After 24 years, Q-dance has announced that this edition, themed "The Final Prophecy," will be the last Qlimax ever. Through a trailer on YouTube, they've made it clear: "The time has come to fulfill this last Prophecy. Together, we shall forge a new reality." The announcement was quite a shock to all the fans, leading them to reflect on their own experiences with the event. Q-dance said: "Qlimax holds a very special place in the hearts of everyone at Q-dance, and we owe it to Qlimax, our scene, and its dedicated fans to end with an edition everyone will remember and cherish."

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GelreDome has become a sacred ground for Qlimax, known for its insane light shows and legendary artist intros when the next playing artist(s) will be revealed. Qlimax has always kept its mysteries well. Timetables remain hidden until the very last minute, and the unveiling of the stage has been a magical moment every year. As the grand curtain falls and reveals the stage design, it's as if a spell has been cast; a new dimension is opened. It's always theatrical, but that's what Qlimax is all about; everything is big, leaving the crowd speechless. This edition, even the lineup remains a secret; all fans have been speculating online for months about what's to come.

Melodic masterpieces: The Anthem Shows

A true Qlimax anthem is more than a song; it’s the soundtrack to an experience. From DJ The Prophet’s earliest creations to Hard Driver’s “Enter The Void” in 2023, each anthem has left its mark. And with these anthems come the anthem shows - massive displays of audio-visual power. Few can forget moments like the 2016 anthem show, "Rise of The Celestials" by Coone, where a woman appeared on the opposite side of the GelreDome, suspended mid-air, while lasers, pyrotechnics, and bass melded into an unforgettable spectacle. Its performances like these have etched themselves into the minds of those who have been there to witness them, becoming part of Qlimax history.

Spirituality meets reality

Qlimax has evolved over the years, moving from supernatural and mythical themes toward spiritual journeys and natural mysteries. This final edition, “The Final Prophecy,” promises to be a deep, transformative experience. As Q-dance writes, “Together, we shall unleash the power of the Dark Star once and for all.” The themes of unity, destiny, and the unseen forces of the universe resonate profoundly as Qlimax invites its disciples to one last gathering, to bid farewell not only to an event but to an entire chapter of the hardstyle scene.

On November 16th, 2024, the final curtain will drop.The doors to the GelreDome open at 21:00, and the last Qlimax track will thunder through the arena just before dawn. Qlimax is completely sold-out, so you're very lucky if you're attending the very last show.

All photos via Q-dance.