WECANDANCE, the renowned electronic beach festival, is set to return this summer with a bold new vision. Under the creative direction of Studio Dennis Vanderbroeck, the festival introduces the innovative theme “Drop in the Light, Rise in the Dark,” promising a unique and transformative experience on the beach of Zeebrugge.
New Artistic Direction
Scheduled for August 3-4 and 10-11, WECANDANCE 2024 will feature a reimagined festival layout with six renovated stages. Of which five stages, designed by Studio Dennis Vanderbroeck, will transition from light to darkness, reflecting the festival’s new theme. “THE LIGHTHOUSE” stage will be the centerpiece, encouraging visitors to explore their own duality through art and music.
Exciting Line-Up
This year’s line-up includes a mix of international and Belgian artists such as Mind Against, Nina kraviz, Recondite, WhoMadeWho, Pachanga boys, LSDXOXO, VTSS, Chloé Caillet, Gabrielle Kwarteng, DJ Holographic, Job Jobse, Innellea, Kasia, Mall Grab, Acid Pauli, Reinier Zonneveld (live) and more. The festival aims to offer an eclectic musical journey, with genres ranging from hip hop and techno to disco and amapiano. Notably, Belgian acts like Stavroz and Faisal will perform live, while Kompass Club will host its own stage on Sunday the 11th of August. Additionally, popular Brussels nightlife concepts like On Sunday and Bloody Louis will be featured.
Sustainability Initiatives
WECANDANCE is committed to sustainability, working towards a festival where “nothing goes to waste.” initiatives include composting event waste to nourish a vegetable garden, offering meat and fish as paid add-ons, promoting a non-smoking beach, and achieving 100% renewable energy usage. The festival also provides filtered ocean water for visitors and aims to reduce its carbon footprint by over 50% by 2030?.
Engaging the Community
The festival actively engages with festival-goers on sustainability efforts through social media and requires its crew to adhere to strict environmental guidelines. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate and maintain the pristine beach environment, fostering a community-driven approach to sustainability.
Inclusivity and Safe Spaces
WECANDANCE prioritizes inclusion, offering dedicated LGBTQIA+ and gender-neutral toilets and featuring diverse artists and stage curators. Initiatives like Supertoys by Milkshake and the all-female rave collective Burenhinder ensure that all communities feel welcome. The festival has detailed protocols to handle discrimination and harassment, and all crew members undergo mandatory training to uphold these standards.
Tickets and Practical Information
Tickets are available at €79 for a day pass, €125 for a weekend, and €200 for both weekends. Visitors are encouraged to stay in nearby Bruges or Ghent, with night trains ensuring safe travel back from Zeebrugge. More information is available on the festival’s website and social media channels.
WECANDANCE 2024 promises to be a memorable experience, blending light and dark, sustainability, and inclusivity on the beautiful beach of Zeebrugge. Join the journey and be part of this unique festival transformation.