‘The smell of burnt plastic was evident’: local man shares experience of Tomorrowland

Regan Kelly

Tomorrowland Music Festival went ahead last week, even though a fire had severely damaged the main stage, just two days before it was due to begin.

Westmeath man Killian Holmes is a devoted fan of all things Tomorrowland, having attended the festival four times and watched the live streams since 2012. He and his partner were engaged there in 2023.

Killian has seen the main stage in all its glory over the years, but noted that this year was unique: “Walking towards the main stage area is an emotional experience every year, but this year was by far the most emotional.

“We could see what was left from the fire, the scaffolding and backdrops melted, along with the skeleton of the Orbyz Stage burnt out and held up by a digger arm.

“The main stage was kept behind tarps and railings, but it wasn’t entirely hidden. There were loads of burnt rubble within arm’s reach, and many people were taking some home.

“Bits of the ground were even scorched, and the smell of burnt plastic was evident throughout.

“The magic of the festival wasn’t compromised, though, we just appreciated everything more.”

Being a veteran of the festival, Killian is adamant that everyone should experience the magic of Tomorrowland. “The feeling when you walk in is breathtaking, it just feels like home.

“Everything is designed in such a way that you feel like you are in a fairytale, while singing your heart out at the main stage, with thousands of people who are there to do the same thing.”

Reflecting on the appeal of Tomorrowland, Killian added: “It doesn’t get the title of being the best festival in the world for no reason, I think it’s something everyone should experience at least once.”