Tomorrowland’s Magical Indoor Premiere in Shanghai
When discussing iconic music festivals, Tomorrowland surely stands at the pinnacle. Over the weekend of November 22-23, 2025, Shanghai was treated to its spectacular first indoor edition, transforming the Hero Dome into a musical wonderland. In partnership with Hero Esports, INS Land, and Budweiser, this event brought together thousands of passionate festival-goers, aptly dubbed the "People of Tomorrow."
A Stunning Venue
The Hero Dome, a colossal structure measuring 100m x 120m, took only five months to build and set the stage for an intimate yet electrifying atmosphere. With a capacity exceeding 10,000 guests, it offered a blend of style and comfort, perfectly reflecting the essence of Tomorrowland. Attendees were welcomed to an exhilarating blend of music, culture, fashion, gastronomy, and technology—an unprecedented experience for the city of Shanghai.
Star-Studded Lineup
Tomorrowland’s inaugural indoor festival featured an impressive array of both international stars and emerging local talent. The highlight on the first night came when Dimitri Vegas closed with a heart-pounding performance, joined on stage by Chinese sensation Ma Siwei, rendering the audience speechless with excitement. “Shanghai has an energy unlike anywhere else in the world,” Vegas remarked.
The second stage housed impressive sets, with Chris Lorenzo delivering his signature beats, while DubVision, Matisse Sadko, and Third Party collaborated for an unforgettable performance. Local DJs such as Tiger Drama and DJ Sally contributed to the vibrant atmosphere, showcasing Shanghai’s unique musical flair.
Adding to the allure, Belgian techno breakout Amber Broos combined her talents with renowned Chinese artist Meguru, offering a high-energy performance that captivated festival-goers. As Henri PFR serenaded the audience with a melodic set, Don Diablo reignited the dance floor later that night, joined by rapper GALI for an unexpected collaboration. The night was capped off with incendiary sets from artists such as Amelie Lens and Apashe, providing a powerful climax to an extraordinary event.
Impressive Production
The technical production at Tomorrowland exemplified excellence. Designed and built locally, the scenography exhibited stricter adherence to safety protocols while focusing on sustainability. An expert team consisting of 20 Belgian and Dutch professionals ensured every detail was meticulously executed. Highlights included:
- - Paperworld Stage Statistics: 1,032 moving lights, 374 m² LED video wall, 20 lasers, and 118 speakers.
- - Butterfly Stage Statistics: 15 giant LED butterflies, 300 moving lights, and 2 km of custom-made garland lighting.
Tomorrowland intended to deliver an iconic festival experience, merging impressive technical execution with local culture, showcasing the magic that can happen when two worlds combine.
A Festival Beyond Music
Not just about the music, Tomorrowland integrated various experiences to resonate with attendees. Exclusive merchandise featured designs unique to China, while the Budweiser Portal gave a select few the chance to secure coveted front-row access. Guests also enjoyed international cuisine from over 30 food and beverage booths, with Michelin-starred chefs serving up delectable dishes, including well-known Thai street food.
A Vision for the Future
Hero Esports and INS Land have set the stage for a revolutionary approach to festivals in China. Their vision is clear; they are not merely bringing a festival but transforming the entertainment landscape within the region. As Danny Tang, CEO of Hero Esports, remarked, “Magic happens when our worlds come together,” further emphasizing their commitment to curating unforgettable experiences.
With the ambition to host more world-class events in the future, this stunning showcase is just the beginning. Clinton Lau, CEO of The Magic of Tomorrowland, expressed sentiments of excitement as Chinese fans experienced this festival for the first time, saying, “Seeing them connect with Tomorrowland’s magic is incredibly emotional.”
In conclusion, Tomorrowland's first indoor edition in Shanghai has successfully blended its renowned festival essence with local cultural elements, signifying a promising future for expansive entertainment within China.