Sunwaves Festival’s 35th edition, held from May 1st until May 5th in Mamaia Nord, Romania, marked the end of an era for one of Europe’s most iconic electronic music gatherings. Known for its marathon DJ sets, pristine sound systems, and beachfront location, SW35 was the final installment at its original home before the festival’s relocation to Spain later this year.
Since its inception in 2007, Sunwaves has been synonymous with the Black Sea’s shores, drawing electronic music enthusiasts from around the globe to Mamaia Nord. The festival’s unique blend of extended performances, immersive stage designs, and a dedicated community has solidified its reputation in the electronic music scene. The 2025 Spring Edition served as a poignant farewell to this beloved location, setting the stage for the festival’s next chapter in Roquetas de Mar, Almería, Spain, scheduled for next September.
The festival boasted a lineup that encapsulated the essence of Sunwaves’ musical journey. Artists included Paco Osuna, Seth Troxler, Loco Dice, tINI, Sonja Moonear, Priku, Rhadoo, Raresh, Petre Inspirescu, East End Dubs, Archie Hamilton, Dennis Cruz, Franky Rizardo, Joey Daniel, the local Mahony, Gescu, Nu Zau, SIT (Cristi Cons and Vlad Caia), and Bila, among others. The master Ricardo Villalobos was also on the line-up but sadly had to cancel due to last-minute health issues. This diverse roster ensured a rich tapestry of sounds, from minimal techno to deep house, reflecting the festival’s commitment to musical excellence. Italian DJ Marco Carola was also invited to make the crowd dance, renowned for his extended performances, delivered a monumental 15-hour set at SW35. This feat matched his previous record at Sunwaves, showcasing his stamina and deep connection with the audience. Carola’s performance was a masterclass in tech-house, seamlessly blending tracks and maintaining an electrifying atmosphere throughout.
When it comes to marathon sets, Sunwaves has long held the crown. One of the most iconic moments occurred during the 2018 edition, when Dubfire shattered previous records with an astonishing 26-and-a-half-hour solo DJ set, surpassing Marco Carola’s earlier benchmark. The following year, Joseph Capriati raised the bar even higher, delivering a staggering 27-hour and 40-minute performance that further established Sunwaves as the global capital of endurance DJing. But perhaps the most legendary of all came in 2016, when tINI and Bill Patrick captivated the crowd with an unforgettable 31-hour back-to-back session, an embodiment of chemistry and the unique magic that defines the festival.
Sunwaves has always been more than just a music festival; it’s an immersive experience. The 2025 edition featured innovative stage designs with 3D cut-outs and projection panels, creating a visually captivating environment. The festival’s commitment to high-quality sound was evident, with Funktion-One systems ensuring crystal-clear audio across all stages. Attendees enjoyed a seamless blend of music, art, and community. Dancing from sunrise to sunset on the picturesque beaches of Mamaia. As Sunwaves bids adieu to its Romanian roots, anticipation builds for its new Spanish edition (SW36). The upcoming edition in Roquetas de Mar from September 4th to 8th promises to retain the festival’s core ethos while introducing new elements reflective of its Mediterranean setting.
This event is not just a festival; it is a celebration of nearly two decades of musical innovation and community building. As the festival transitions to its new home, it carries forward a legacy of unforgettable moments, marathon sets, and a commitment to delivering unparalleled electronic music experiences.
Early bird tickets for SW36 are already on sale, signaling the start of a new chapter for this iconic festival. Grab yours here.
