Nice weather, new design and top DJs: Garrizoen festival experiences top edition (Beringen)

With electronic sounds and deep bass, beautiful weather and an impressive setting, the one-day techno and house festival attracted more than 4,000 fans on Thursday. The organization opted for a different setup for the festival this year, with success. “After a year of restrictions due to work at the location, Garrizoen is back at full strength with two stages,” says Frederik Luyten, spokesperson for Garrizoen. “More than 4,000 ravers enjoyed an unforgettable festive edition. The good weather was also on our side.”

New this year was the location of the main stage. “Charbon was moved to an even more impressive location, right in front of the main mine offices, which provided a fantastic backdrop to our shows.” Big names such as Len Faki, Sam Paganini and Amber Broos shined on Charbon, while up-and-coming talents such as Re-Type and Bermio provided the warm-up.

Very proud

Garrizoen is just one of the many techno festivals that Sam (25), Wout (20) and Pieter (24) from Tessenderlo visit every year. Pieter, better known by his DJ name Portex, even performed at Tomorrowland Winter in March. “We are here to see all the performances. We absolutely should not miss performances by Pegassi and Amber Broos,” he said.

Friends Britt (27), Kaat (26) and Valerie (26) from Beringen are also avid festival goers and have not missed a single edition of Garrizoen. “We love techno music, especially when it’s in our own city. Partying at a location like be-Mine is unique. We are very proud Beringen residents. It has now become an annual tradition among friends. Patrick Mason is our absolute favorite.”

Jan Sesselle (58), known from the television program Restaurant Misunderstanding, was also present along with his family. The Alzheimer League Flanders organizes the program annually together with the production house Roses are blue Restaurant Misunderstanding. Jan, who suffers from frontotemporal dementia, has developed a passionate love for technology since his diagnosis. “He is also a big fan of Amber Broos,” says Frederix Luyten from Garrizoen. “We organized a meet and greet with Amber especially for Jan, which he enjoyed immensely.”

Ravenous mayor

Mayor Thomas Vints was also among the ravers. “Fantastic weather for an event of this magnitude to take place on this mine site. And of course to drink a nice pint.”

In the Kolenwasserij, where the pace is even faster, artists such as Patrick Mason, Cera Khin and MCR-T provided a solid set that matches the raw energy of the location. “In the Coal Washer it can be harder, faster, stronger. Our lineup there is really aimed at those who want to push the boundaries of their energy. Patrick Mason was a standout at Garrison. He will also perform at Pukkelpop this summer. His performances transform DJing into an all-round performance that you must see.”

The Garrison festival embraces not only the music, but also the rich mining history of be-Mine. “The industrial elements of this location fit perfectly with the raw power of techno, house and trance,” says Luyten. “This year our scenography, storytelling and line-up are seamlessly integrated with the environment, which keeps every edition fresh and innovative.”

Safety

Garrizoen is also strongly committed to the well-being of its visitors with the We Care A Lot policy, known from Pukkelpop. Visitors received free earplugs and condoms and attention was paid to safe transport and healthy food. “Safety and well-being are our top priority,” assures Luyten. “In collaboration with local services, we ensure a smooth process and a safe environment for everyone.”

The local police Beringen/Ham/Tessenderlo carried out numerous checks at the festival at be-Mine, together with a team of police officers and drug dogs. “We are committed to prevention and repression of alcohol and drugs. The visitors were given the opportunity to voluntarily deposit drugs. The police also took part in the safety tour on Wednesday afternoon. And a command post was ready at the entrance to immediately consult with the organization. Medical services, police and mayor are available. We were alert to all possible scenarios. Everything has gone well so far (Thursday evening at 8:30 p.m., ed.).”