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| Photo Courtesy of Luke B |
It’s been ten years since Lollapalooza Berlin arrived on the scene, offering European festivalgoers a taste of the global Lolla experience that first found a permanent home in Chicago. Since then, the festival has expanded to eight other international countries. Lollapalooza Berlin presented by Telekom continues to bring that unmistakable feeling: two days filled with music, festival vibes and unforgettable moments. European summers can be unpredictable, and this year was no exception. But that didn’t stop fans from enjoying a wide range of music across the stages. Despite persistent rain and, at times, a very muddy field, thousands of fans streamed into the festival grounds at Berlin’s Olympiapark—they came ready to make new memories with friends, surrounded by their favorite artists, and the joy only a music festival can bring.
Photo Courtesy of Omillershots
Between the Main Stages, Perry’s Stage, the Alternative Stage, countless experience areas, and street food zones, a very special kind of festival magic unfolded throughout the day. 60,000 fans on the first day, Saturday, with Gracie Abrams and Armin Van Buuren performing. Those who came just for the music missed half the magic of Lollapalooza Berlin presented by Telekom. Beyond the stages, the festival shone with its many facets: At Fashionpalooza, streetwear met queer couture, creative workshops merged with runways, and spontaneous flash mobs occurred.
Photo Courtesy of Omillershots
The first day of the festival was opened by disco-pop band Midnight Generation on the Main Stage South. And it quickly became clear: the sound of Lolla Berlin is truly international and unmatched in the German festival scene. Whether it was New York native Remy Bond in the early afternoon on the Telekom Main Stage, British rising star Artemas, Australian DJ superstar Dom Dolla, or German artist BUNT. on Perry’s Stage in the Olympiastadion—they all embodied the global spirit of the festival. Genres like indie, alternative, art pop, electro, and hip-hop were also well represented. Acts like The Last Dinner Party, FLO, Issey Cross, Mark Ambor, MICO, and Ritter Lean turned the festival grounds into a playground of musical diversity.
As the evening set in, K-pop girl band IVE lit up the Telekom main stage with an impressive performance, introduced by a dramatic VC. Allowing the girls to step on to the stage in shimmering white outfits. Strutting out to REBEL HEART, they did an excellent job at exuding some serious pop girl energy. Despite the light rain, their charisma and carefully curated setlist lifted the fans spirits, proving that the fans refused to allow the weather to dampen spirits. Their 14-track performance kept the crowd jumping and enticed especially as the members shared heartfelt words about being able to perform at Lolla. Making full use of the extended stage, IVE engaged with fans who’d been waiting to finally see their idols up close. Wrapping up with After LIKE, they cemented why they are fast rising in global popularity not just visually beautiful but vocally strong, not just cute but powerful, and aren't to be messed with.
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Photo Courtesy of Julius Hatt
Shortly afterwards on the opposite stage was co-headliner Gracie Abrams, who offered a contrasting performance, a more subtle stage presence. Her warm voice made the large stage into an intimate space amidst the colourful festival hustle and bustle. Fans in the crowd swayed as she played fan favourites, with fans on the big screen holding signs.
When it rains, it pours, and by the evening it was down to the grand finale: superstar and headliner Justin Timberlake. It was left to him to transform a soggy audience into a dance floor. The rain couldn’t stop anyone as he performed classic throwbacks like Cry Me a River, Sexy Back, and Can’t Stop the Feeling. Impressively navigating a soaking puddle stage—ever the professional and making sure we were having fun regardless of the grey skies—he and his band, the Tennessee Kids, played out a 90-minute set that was a great balance of nostalgia, new classics, and freestyling with their instruments. Meanwhile, trance icon Armin van Buuren transformed Perry’s Stage into Germany’s largest open-air disco, sending the Olympiastadion into a euphoric nighttime frenzy.
Photo Courtesy of Julius Hatt
Festival Director Fruzsina Szép summed it up best:
“Ten years of Lolla Berlin—and still going strong. This first festival day showed what’s possible when people come together peacefully to celebrate life’s unique and emotional moments. We can’t wait for tomorrow.”
Up Next: Day Two
On its second festival day, and essentially the birthday celebrations of Lollapalooza Berlin presented by Telekom as they hit the big 10 after its premiere, Berlin remains a global magnet for international superstars and a hotspot for unforgettable festival moments.
Sunday promised another sensational lineup, and well, did it deliver! The stages for Sunday were chock-full of international talent, including j-hope, RAYE, Benson Boone, Berlin techno duo Brutalismus 3000, Sofi Tukker, John Summit, Mother Mother, Royel Otis, progressive DJane Miss Monique, and many more.
Photo Courtesy of Julius Hatt
Even before sunrise, the first set of fans lined up at the gates to claim the best spots to see their favourite acts. From the very first moment, the crowd was ready to experience everything that makes Lolla Berlin so unique.
Right in time for the start of the stage program—and in anticipation of the headliner “Sunshine” later in the evening—the skies cleared and golden light soaked the Maifeld and the Olympic Stadium. The day kicked off with an energetic Good Morning Set from King Kong Kicks on the Fashion Stage. On the Main Stage South, hyperpop newcomer FILLY set the tone early with a powerful performance. A wave of nostalgia swept across the Telekom Main Stage with the beloved band Juli, delivering goosebumps with anthems like Perfekte Welle and Dieses Leben.
By the time CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso hit the stage, real summer vibes were in full swing. Their electrifying sound—an explosive mix of Latin rap, funk, and electronic beats—ignited dancing crowds and spread a euphoric atmosphere across the field. Diverse and dedicated, the Lolla crowd sang along word-for-word and brought an international flair to Berlin. Whether it was indie rock by Mother Mother and Royel Otis, vibrant pop from Wasia Project, or hard-hitting rap from Texan artist BigXthaPlug—Lollapalooza Berlin presented by Telekom was, once again, as eclectic and colourful as its global fanbase.
As always, Lollapalooza Berlin presented by Telekom was far more than just music. The experience areas offered countless highlights: At Fashionpalooza, drag runway shows by Miss Mosh and Valery Jay made powerful statements of diversity, self-expression, and the LGBTQIA+ community. DIY workshops invited guests to explore their creative side, with batik and upcycling sessions hosted by Bleach London. Fitness lovers found their rhythm with Rave Aerobics and Dance Twerkouts.
Photo Courtesy of Valentin Kaplan
The Grüne Kiez, the festival’s sustainability centre since day one, continued its mission with interactive offerings, including workshops, educational booths, and a fully vegetarian-vegan food court—pushing the boundaries of what a sustainable future festival can be.
Even the youngest festivalgoers had their share of the magic: Kidzapalooza was buzzing with mini concerts, dance sessions, kids’ karaoke, and a playful show by the Puppetmastaz Kids Edition.
As the clouds parted and sunlight began to take over the festival grounds transformed just in time for the fashion stage. The sensational Queens against Borders took over. A collective of drag artists: Miss Sam Day, Salome Blaqu, singer Dornika, and Nana. All made up of trans queer refugees and immigrants. It was a great addition to the follow-up from the previous act, a fashion show that showcased the work of Therapy Berlin. It was great to see such a vivid and important celebration of queer culture and art at a major festival. The host, The Darvish, was the perfect MC, charismatic and making sure the crowd were hyped and encouraging them to get involved. From belly dancers to lip-syncing, and even audience participation it was full of resilience and joy.
Photo Courtesy of Christina De Merzi
Another queen graced the stage, showing exactly what it means to be a world-class pop star: RAYE. The UK singer has always been candid and honest about her challenges in the music industry, and now fully in control of her artistry, she delivered an emotional but incredibly empowering set. One of the most magical moments came in the early evening, as the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter stepped barefoot onto the Main Stage—equal parts glamorous and grounded. Blending soul, pop, and jazz, she transformed the Maifeld into one massive choir and even debuted a new single- Mary Jane. Before performing the incredibly raw and emotional Ice Cream Man easily one of her most vulnerable songs but held the crowd in the palm of her hand with her not just vulnerability but her vocals ... .just phenomenal. Shortly after with her signature British humour joked: “I don’t want to make everyone sad for too long.” Later declaring it was a party time. And party they did. With the high-energy You Don’t Know Me (with Jax Jones), and the breakout 2022’s Escapism. RAYE created the kind of hair-raising moment that only Lolla Berlin can deliver.
Rising star Benson Boone lit up Berlin with a dynamic 60-minute set, including his global hits Beautiful Things and Mystical Magical. Jumping into the air and running manically around onstage, his presence fans have come to expect. But beyond the hype, Boone’s music struck a deeper chord. In one touching moment, fans surprised him with a project: holding up handwritten signs with messages. Visibly moved he stepped off stage to read them and shared an emotional hug with the fan who had led the effort. Meanwhile, tech-house icon John Summit turned the Perry’s Stage into a throbbing open-air rave.
Photo Courtesy of Julius Hatt
The grand finale on the Telekom Main Stage? Nothing short of historic. As BTS’s j-hope conquered, dominated, and shook the crowd. With this being his first European debut, the crowd was, as imagined, dedicated. The Purple Heart project saw thousands of fans wave hand-written cut-out hearts appear for Sweet Dreams and a sea of lights, synchronised fan choreography, emotional signs, thousands of raised arms, and fans in joyful tears. K-pop officially took over Berlin on this unforgettable night. Read the full review here.
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| Photo Courtesy of Julius Hatt |
While the South Korean rapper captivated the audience with his unmistakable charm, the Berlin techno duo Brutalismus 3000 energised fans at the Perry Stage, providing the perfect end to a special anniversary celebration.
All of this - music, moments, magic - is what makes Lollapalooza Berlin presented by Telekom such a defining force in the European festival landscape. Festival Director Fruzsina Szép reflects on the milestone:
“After ten years of unforgettable memories, incredible music, and a passionate audience, we are proud of what Lolla Berlin has become: a top-tier festival on par with the biggest events in Europe—and a place where creativity, community, and diversity come alive.”
And the journey continues: Lollapalooza Berlin returns in 2026
Lollapalooza Berlin presented by Telekom will return next year on July 18 and 19, 2026. Ticket presale begins soon. All details will be announced at www.lollapaloozade.com.