Animations

I couldn't conclude this series of articles dedicated to the world of Defqon.1 without mentioning all the animations. There too, the list is long!

Here's a list of the things you could see on site in 2023:

Troubleshooting

I'll start with the part that will concern campers the most:

• Camping equipment: for the more giddy or unlucky, you can find a whole heap of items dedicated to camping. From toothbrushes to cushions and mattresses, you'll find everything you need. Well, you'll have to pay for it, but it's a lifesaver in case you forget something, and it'll certainly save you from spending your weekend under the stars! I can't stress this enough: prepare in advance.

• Vapes**: for smokers. You'll find everything you need for vaping. I'm not a smoker, so I can't give you more advice.

• Chargers / Refills**: for your batteries. You can rent external batteries or have your electronic devices charged at these stands, in exchange for a deposit. I prefer to advise you to make arrangements in advance and bring your own external battery, or even better, a solar-powered external battery.

For athletes

To keep your body in shape, the menu includes :

• An outdoor weight room**: for the more athletically inclined. As well as offering an entire slot dedicated to fitness (the warrior workout), Q-Dance provides weight-lovers with an entire room stocked with all kinds of equipment: benches, weights, bars, bags, ropes, etc. Ideal if you're on a special diet and don't want to miss your usual workout. Ideal, then, if you're on a special diet and don't want to miss your regular workout.

• Protein food stands**: for healthy eating. In addition to fruit, you'll find a whole host of protein bars or powders dedicated to sport. These can be useful if you don't want to carry your stock of whey with you.

What about music?

If you still haven't had your fill of decibels, there's :

• Disco silents**: this is the place to go to keep the party going after the party. Usually it's a DJ at the turntables and the crowd in front of him (so far, nothing surprising), but the subtlety is that everyone wears headphones on their heads. The theory is that it's less noisy, but people are still talking loudly, and the sound quality is inferior. For me, it's still a consolation prize, but it's clearly not worth the thrill of speakers that pump out bone-shaking bass. In my opinion it's even more fun on the campsite.

• The old school tent**: for the retro feel. You'll agree with me that the style of music is evolving day by day, and that every year young talents come up with new kicks or new effects that dethrone the older ones. Well, those "old-timers" are still around! You'll find sounds from the years 2000-2010 both on the Magenta stage and in a marquee set up for the occasion. Q-dance plays the retro card to the hilt, transforming the venue into an old-school discotheque with luminous tiles on the floor and a disco ball on the ceiling.

• Random entertainment**: I don't know the secret here, you'll just have to be lucky. During the 4 days of the festival, you're likely to come across strange vehicles equipped with large speakers and a DJ at the turntables. The vehicle usually stops in a corner and turns up the sound for a few minutes. This is often an opportunity to meet new DJs, or more established ones trying out new styles. It's interesting to keep your ears open at such times.

• The Shit show**: far from shit! I had to make that pun. Out of nowhere, a pod rises right next to the toilets. Smoke bombs, full volume and poop masks - this is it! I love this kind of moment when you get caught by a surprise like this. You wanted to go and take a peach? And then the walls start to shake, as a DJ starts to set the mood in the toilets.

Merchandise

A must!

You'll find it everywhere, both in the village and on the festival grounds. Not surprisingly, you'll find T-shirts, sweatshirts, goodies and other accessories in the festival colors. Much of what's sold on site can be bought online, but if you're into collectibles, take a look. You're sure to find a collector's t-shirt or cap that will only be available on site.

Yes, being a warrior has to be earned, and trophies are only for the most assiduous.

A word of advice: stock is going fast, so don't wait until the last day to make your purchases.

Just for fun

Haven't you had enough yet? Let me add:

• A funfair attraction**: Everyone knows what it is. It's very original, but personally I found the price of the ride exaggerated.

• Hammocks**: spread out everywhere, they're great for lounging around. Depending on their location, they are quickly overrun. So if you're in a group, don't expect to be able to enjoy them all.

• An altar dedicated to shoes**: here, all the dance steps and kilometers covered are highlighted, and a final tribute is paid to our shoes, which will certainly be staying put. As the weekend draws to a close, it's worth taking a look. If you'd like to make a contribution and leave a pair of shoes behind, you're more than welcome to do so - just take them with you when you leave.

• Speedcore dating**: for singles. Looking for your soul mate? Why not find her at a festival? After all, it's good to have the same taste in music, isn't it? It's very original and I think it's a great idea!

• Bungee jumping**: impossible to miss! Well, personally I'm more keen on free-falling than bungee jumping, but if you're up for the plunge, Defqon.1 gives you the chance to launch yourself into the void from the top of a gondola. The view should be breathtaking before you jump!

In short... you'll love it there! Defqon.1 is a must-see at least once in your life.

It really is!