Every summer, Denmark becomes the core of music, sustainability, and Scandinavian cool as thousands of festival-goers head to the city of Aarhus for NorthSide Festival. Taking place in June 2025, NorthSide is not just a music festival—it’s a cultural statement. With a line-up that mixes global superstars with rising Nordic talent, a deep commitment to eco-conscious values, and a setting that feels modern yet relaxed, NorthSide stands out as one of Europe’s most forward-thinking music events.
More Than Music
Since its launch in 2010, NorthSide has grown from a small one-day event to a full-blown three-day festival attracting tens of thousands. But while its size has grown, its ethos has remained strong: high-quality music in a setting that respects the planet. The 2025 edition, running from June 5 to 7, continues the festival’s mission of combining massive sound with minimal footprint. Everything at NorthSide is 100% organic—from the food and drink options to the renewable energy powering the stages.
This focus on sustainability doesn’t get in the way of the fun. On the contrary, it adds a new layer of meaning to the experience. Dancing under wind-powered lights, sipping on organic cocktails, and recycling your festival cup while hearing your favourite act—it’s all part of what makes NorthSide feel modern and mindful.
The Stages: A City of Sound
NorthSide’s layout turns a corner of Aarhus’ green space into a world of colour and sound. There are three main stages which are Green Stage, Blue Stage, and Red Stage; each with its own sound identity and visual atmosphere. Green is the biggest, hosting chart-topping artists and headliners, while Blue leans into indie, electronic, and experimental. Red keeps things tight and electric, often featuring local heroes and underground acts.
In 2024, artists like The Strokes, SZA, and Kaytranada lit up the night, while First Aid Kit and Little Simz brought emotional brilliance to the afternoon slots. For 2025, the lineup remains a tightly held secret, but rumours suggest appearances from Tame Impala, Christine and the Queens, and a Nordic stage takeover featuring acts like Girl in Red, MØ, and Aurora.
A Festival Powered by Values
NorthSide is known for its progressive stance on environmental action. In 2022, it became the first Danish festival to eliminate single-use plastic, and by 2024, it ran fully on green energy. In 2025, they’re introducing even more innovations—solar-charging stations, water refill points everywhere, and bike-powered phone chargers.
All food and drinks at NorthSide are certified organic. Whether you’re grabbing a vegan kebab, Nordic street food, or sipping a local craft beer, everything is high quality and sustainably sourced. The bars and food vendors don’t just serve—you’ll find chefs and mixologists from top Aarhus restaurants turning every meal into a festival highlight.
People, Parties, and Atmosphere
NorthSide’s crowd is a mix of Danish locals, European festival-hoppers, and music lovers from around the world. Stylish but chill, they come for the music but stay for the vibe. It’s easy to make friends while queuing for falafel or dancing barefoot on the grass.
The atmosphere is lively yet calm—there’s no aggressive crowding or VIP egos. Everything is open and communal. And because the festival takes place so close to Aarhus’ city center, it’s common for people to dip in and out, combining the fest with city explorations, beach walks, and café culture.
Off the Main Path: Art, Conferences, and Chill Zones
Beyond the music, NorthSide offers creative corners where art, sustainability, and chill-out zones meet. Past editions have featured interactive installations made of recycled materials, silent discos in solar domes, and panel discussions about climate action in the Nordic world.
New for 2025 is the NorthFuture Dome, a futuristic space combining live visual art, ambient DJ sets, and workshops on eco-tech and circular fashion. Whether you want to lie on a hammock with ambient sounds or learn how to make your own upcycled tote bag, this is the place.
Where to Stay: Aarhus Comfort Meets Festival Fun
Unlike remote festivals, NorthSide is a city-based event. That means you can enjoy world-class music and still sleep in a hotel bed—or an Airbnb with a balcony. There’s a designated campsite for those who prefer a full festival experience, but many opt to stay in Aarhus’ boutique hotels or hostels. The public transport system is top-notch, and there are shuttle buses from major areas of the city.
Aarhus itself is a gem. Known as Denmark’s second city, it mixes student energy with design cool, offering museums, beaches, and a buzzing food scene. Festivalgoers often extend their stay to explore the ARoS Art Museum, walk the harbour, or just relax by the sea.
Why Go to Northside
If you’re looking for a summer festival that hits the sweet spot between music, culture, and sustainability, NorthSide Festival is a no-brainer. With its world-class line-up, climate-first thinking, and chill Danish energy, it’s where tomorrow’s festival experience is happening today.
No plastic. No waste. No bad vibes. Just great music, great people, and a great time in Denmark.
Follow NorthSide Festival
For line-up announcements, eco-tips, travel info, and ticket drops, follow NorthSide on:
Instagram: @northside_dk
Facebook: NorthSide Festival