Belfast Calling: Why AVA Festival Should Be on Every Electronic Music Lover’s Radar
For those in the know, Belfast is more than just a city steeped in history; it’s a vibrant hub for electronic music. And at the heart of this scene is AVA Festival, an unmissable event that consistently delivers cutting-edge sounds and unforgettable experiences. Mark your calendars for Friday, May 30th and Saturday, May 31st, because 2025 promises to be the biggest AVA yet, taking place at the iconic Titanic Slipways.
More Than Just a Festival: An Immersive Experience
AVA isn’t just about the music; it’s about the atmosphere. Set against the backdrop of the Titanic Slipways, the festival offers a unique urban setting that blends industrial grit with electrifying energy. Doors open at 13:00 each day and keep the party going until 23:00, giving you plenty of time to soak it all in. But a word to the wise: arrive early to avoid queues, especially after 3 PM! Last entry is at 7 PM.
Getting there is easy, with walking, taxis, and public transport options readily available from Belfast City Centre. While taxis have a designated drop-off and pick-up point, public transport or walking are highly recommended due to potential traffic congestion. Remember, there’s no customer car park, so leave the car at home and immerse yourself fully in the experience.
Electrifying Lineup
AVA 2025 boasts a lineup that will make any electronic music enthusiast’s heart beat faster. This year, AVA welcomes Underworld as festival headliners. The iconic electronic duo is synonymous with UK rave culture and responsible for the timeless anthem ‘Born Slippy’. Overmono, the British brothers redefining late-night rave sonics also top the bill. Ewan McVicar, the Scottish house and techno powerhouse who shot to fame with the chart-smashing ‘Tell Me Something Good’, will bring his infectious energy to light up the AVA 2025 Lineup.
VTSS will make her AVA debut for a pulsating techno masterclass. KI/KI returns to transport the crowd with her seamless fusion of acid, trance, and techno, blending futurism with nostalgia. Global sensation DJ Fuckoff also makes her AVA debut, delivering her signature bass-driven sound.
Accommodation and Afterparties
To make your AVA experience seamless, the festival has partnered with Crewfare to offer discounted accommodation with installment plan options. Keep an eye out for accommodation + festival ticket packages for the ultimate convenience.
When the main festival site closes, the night is far from over. Belfast’s iconic venues will host a series of afterparties featuring festival acts and other exciting names. These afterparties are ticketed separately, so keep an eye out for announcements in Spring 2025.
Important Information
- Age Policy: This is an 18+ event, and you’ll need a valid photo driving license or passport for entry. No other forms of ID will be accepted.
- Accessibility: AVA is committed to being accessible to all. The event site is accessible, and accessible toilets are available.
- Payment Options: AVA offers flexible payment options, including PayPal’s Pay Later, which allows you to spread the cost of your tickets across three interest-free payments.
More Than Just a Party: Sustainability
AVA is deeply committed to actively minimizing its impact on the environment. EarthPercent is their primary charity partner for 2025, with £1 raised on each ticket purchased.
AVA Festival is more than just a music festival; it’s a celebration of Belfast’s vibrant electronic music scene and a commitment to creating a sustainable and unforgettable experience for everyone involved. Don’t miss out!