Bruges, Belgium – The Cactus Festival, renowned for its eclectic mix of musical talent and vibrant atmosphere, kicked off on Friday, attracting a record number of attendees as it sold out for the first time in its history.
Organiser Patrick Keersebilck confirmed that all tickets were snapped up by Wednesday evening, with an expected 30,000 music lovers flocking to the picturesque city, often dubbed the ‘Venice of the North,’ for the weekend-long celebration.
In preparation for the weekend, which forecasts potential rain showers, additional planks have been laid out to ensure a comfortable experience for festival-goers.
“People know we are an open-air festival and prepare accordingly,” said Keersebilck, expressing optimism about the event’s smooth operation. “No major issues are anticipated.”
The festival officially opened its doors at 3 p.m. on Friday, setting the stage for an exciting lineup of performances. The first act, Kids With Buns, took to the stage at 5:20 p.m., captivating the crowd with their energetic set.
As the evening progressed, audiences were treated to performances by popular acts, including Compact Disk Dummies, De Jeugd Van Tegenwoordig, and Brihang. The night culminated in a high-energy finale with headliners Bazart, known for their engaging live shows.
The festivities continue on Saturday, starting with the dynamic sounds of Bluai, followed by an impressive lineup that features artists such as ÃO, Whispering Sons, Het Zesde Metaal, and the legendary Patti Smith.
As the day unfolds, the excitement will build, leading to performances by Warhaus and the acclaimed Brittany Howard, known for her powerful vocals and commanding stage presence.
The festival will wrap up on Sunday with a much-anticipated performance by War On Drugs, whose unique blend of rock and Americana has garnered them a devoted following. Sunday’s lineup also includes a variety of talent, such as Cat Power, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, J.
Bernardt, Anna Calvi, Admiral Freebee, Waxahatchee, and Demob Happy, ensuring that festival-goers will have a diverse range of music to enjoy right up until the final notes.
Beyond the music, the Cactus Festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the charm of Bruges.
Nestled in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site, attendees can explore the city’s stunning medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and vibrant culture, making the festival not just a musical experience but a cultural one as well.
As the festival progresses, local businesses are also expected to benefit from the influx of visitors, with restaurants, cafes, and shops preparing for the surge in customers.
The Cactus Festival not only celebrates music but also underscores the importance of community engagement and local economies.
With its sold-out status and a stellar lineup of performers, the Cactus Festival promises to be an unforgettable event, cementing its place as a must-visit on the European festival calendar.
As the weekend unfolds, both local residents and visitors can look forward to a celebration of music, culture, and community in the enchanting city of Bruges.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
