Tomorrowland brings two-day electronic music festival to Shanghai - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Tomorrowland has returned to Shanghai for the second edition of The Magic of Tomorrowland in China, bringing two nights of electronic music and immersive entertainment to the city's Hero Dome. Organised in partnership with Hero Esports, INS LAND and Budweiser, the sold-out event attracted thousands of festivalgoers and highlighted the growing role of international music festivals in China's entertainment market.

The event took place at INS SEA, a newly developed waterfront destination in Shanghai's western Huangpu district. The venue combined electronic music performances with gastronomy, fashion, technology and hospitality, creating an entertainment experience extending beyond the concerts themselves. Internationally recognised DJs shared the programme with Chinese artists, reflecting the festival's ambition to connect global electronic music culture with local audiences.

A central feature was the production at Hero Dome, where an 88-metre-wide main stage and 72 moving ceiling screens created an elaborate visual environment. The entire stage design was produced locally, demonstrating the technical capabilities available for major international entertainment events in China. According to the organisers, the production incorporated local safety requirements and sustainability considerations.

International DJs and Chinese talent share the stage

The first evening featured Swedish House Mafia member Axwell as the headline performer. Belgian DJ Lost Frequencies contributed his melodic electronic sound, while Cassian and Kevin de Vries performed a back-to-back set. MORTEN and Linska also appeared, with Chinese DJ Sally opening the programme.

The second night concluded with a performance by Dutch DJ Tiësto. Other artists included ARTBAT and R3HAB, who performed together, alongside Miss Monique, Alison Wonderland and Joel Corry. Chinese performer Evin King added a local contribution to the closing programme.

Beyond the main stage, Paperworld by Budweiser offered a smaller performance setting featuring artists including Hauzer, Nosi, Bhaskar and Carly Wilford. Additional sets by DJ L, Zok and Mansun Lui broadened the musical programme.

“China has always opened its arms to us, and returning for a second year with our local partners is a privilege,” said Debby Wilmsen, spokesperson for Tomorrowland. She highlighted the development of Shanghai's electronic dance music scene and the festival's growing presence in the country.

Large-scale production showcases local expertise

The technical infrastructure was a defining element of the Shanghai edition. According to the organisers, the production incorporated approximately 2,867 square metres of new LED screens, 692 moving lights and laser fixtures, and 120 loudspeakers.

The stage design covered around 20,000 square metres, while scenic structures occupied a reported volume of 15,000 cubic metres. A 20-metre catwalk accommodated 24 performers wearing locally produced costumes. Bubble machines, confetti effects and other visual elements complemented the performances.

The scale of the production required cooperation between international creative teams and Chinese technical specialists. Stage construction, decorative elements, costumes and other components were developed locally.

Danny Tang, CEO and co-founder of Hero Esports, described the collaboration with Tomorrowland and INS LAND as an opportunity to create experiences that bring audiences together. He also expressed interest in continuing the festival partnership in China.

Gastronomy broadens the festival experience

The organisers placed considerable emphasis on hospitality and dining, positioning The Magic of Tomorrowland as more than a conventional electronic music event.

Approximately 15 food and beverage brands participated, offering Chinese regional specialities, Western cuisine, Thai street food and desserts. The selection included restaurants recognised by international and Chinese restaurant guides.

Among the participants were Yongfu, known for its Ningbo cuisine and Michelin recognition, and Qingxi Hui, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant specialising in Chaoshan cuisine. Xiding presented its sea cucumber dumplings, while LES NUGAES contributed French-inspired dining options.

Dedicated hospitality areas, brand experiences and merchandise developed specifically for the Chinese market further expanded the event's commercial and cultural dimensions.

For Shanghai's tourism and events sector, the festival illustrates how international entertainment brands can be integrated into urban leisure destinations. Its combination of music, gastronomy, technology and locally produced experiences also demonstrates the potential for cooperation between international event organisers and Chinese hospitality and entertainment businesses.

The sold-out second edition confirms audience interest in the format, although the organisers have not disclosed detailed attendance figures or the event's economic impact on Shanghai's tourism industry.

Image Credit: © AI generated illustration with material courtesy of Hero Esports