Armin van Buuren Showcases His 48th Singelloop Achievement with His Wife in Leiden: ‘I Had an Amazing Experience’

Armin van Buuren, the legendary Dutch DJ known for his global influence in electronic music, recently took part in something far more personal and grounded than a packed music festival—he completed the 48th Singelloop Leiden alongside his wife, Erika van Thiel. The event, steeped in tradition and community spirit, holds special meaning for Armin, who was born and raised in Leiden. Far from the electrifying lights of Tomorrowland or Ultra, this moment was about love, hometown pride, and celebrating a grounded, balanced life. Armin shared a heartfelt message online after the run, calling it “an amazing experience,” and the image of him smiling next to Erika with medals around their necks went viral almost immediately. This story is more than just about a race—it’s about staying connected to one’s roots, sharing victories with loved ones, and showing fans that no matter how far you go in life, home remains at the core of who you are.

Armin van Buuren and the City of Leiden: A Lifelong Bond

Leiden is not just a dot on the map for Armin van Buuren—it is the emotional foundation of his life and career. Known for its charming canals, prestigious university, and artistic heritage, Leiden has played a pivotal role in shaping Armin’s early life and his rise to global prominence. While millions know him as the face behind “A State of Trance” and the energy of sold-out arenas, locals see him as one of their own. The Singelloop Leiden, a festive 6.6 km run around the city’s picturesque canals, is more than just a sporting event—it’s a celebration of community, health, and tradition. Armin has expressed on numerous occasions how much this city means to him. In interviews, he fondly recalls running along those same canals as a kid, never imagining that one day he’d travel the world but still return to run that same route—this time with fans cheering his every step. His appearance at this year’s Singelloop brought a wave of excitement and emotion to the city. Residents appreciated that despite his international fame, Armin hasn’t lost touch with his beginnings. He doesn’t just say he loves Leiden—he shows it.

Running Together: A Celebration of Love and Support

The image of Armin running alongside his wife Erika captured hearts not just in Leiden but globally. It’s rare to see a power couple taking part in something so humble yet powerful—a public race that symbolizes unity, perseverance, and mutual support. Fans are used to seeing Armin van Buuren command massive crowds with deep melodic drops and laser shows, but here, dressed in simple athletic gear, he appeared as a husband, a community member, and a man grateful for the simple joys of life. On social media, Armin shared, “I had an amazing experience running the Singelloop together with my wife. The energy from the crowd, the beautiful route, and being back home made it all so special.” This moment showed a side of Armin that fans don’t often get to see—the personal, intimate joy of accomplishing something meaningful with the person you love most. Their joint run wasn’t about competition. It was about connection. Erika, who tends to keep a low public profile, received immense admiration from fans who commented on her dedication, grace, and the evident bond she shares with Armin. The couple’s appearance together symbolized balance—a reminder that behind the noise of fame, what matters most is who runs beside you.

The 48th Singelloop: Community, Celebration, and Connection

The 48th Singelloop Leiden wasn’t just a nostalgic trip for Armin—it was a vivid celebration of local identity and pride. Thousands of runners of all ages and backgrounds participated in the beloved event, tracing the historic waterways that give Leiden its distinctive charm. Schools, businesses, running clubs, and entire families came out in colorful gear, some even in costumes, turning the city into a living, moving celebration. For residents, the Singelloop is about togetherness, laughter, and resilience. And when someone like Armin van Buuren, a hometown hero turned global icon, joins the celebration, it becomes even more special. Local media gave the event extensive coverage, not just because of Armin’s presence but because his participation highlighted the emotional value of tradition. It reminded everyone that shared moments like these build stronger, more connected communities. When Armin crossed the finish line, he wasn’t greeted with celebrity fanfare, but with heartfelt applause from neighbors, friends, and long-time admirers who’ve watched him grow from a young music enthusiast to one of the most influential figures in EDM. It was an affirmation that while music can take you far, community keeps you grounded.

Balancing Stardom and Self: Armin’s Healthy Lifestyle Shift

Over the past few years, Armin van Buuren has made a conscious effort to promote mental wellness, physical fitness, and personal balance—a message that resonates with millions worldwide. Touring internationally can be exhausting, both physically and emotionally, and Armin has been transparent about the toll it can take. Running has become one of his favorite ways to reset and stay energized. In interviews, he has spoken about how cardio exercise, especially outdoor running, helps him organize his thoughts, stay creative, and remain centered. Participating in the Singelloop wasn’t just a public gesture—it was a reflection of a deeper lifestyle commitment. This evolution has also influenced his music. Recent tracks and live performances have had a more introspective edge, blending emotion with energy in a way that suggests someone who is not only entertaining but growing. His openness about topics like burnout, mental health, and staying physically active makes him more than a DJ—he’s also an inspiration. Fans look to Armin not just for beats, but for life advice, and he continues to deliver both on and off stage.

Social Media Reactions: From Leiden to the World

Once Armin posted his finish line photo with Erika, the internet lit up with reactions. Fans from across the globe flooded the comments with messages of admiration, inspiration, and gratitude. “You make us proud every day,” one Dutch fan wrote. Another said, “I signed up for my city’s 5K because of you.” It’s one thing for a celebrity to influence musical tastes—but to influence people’s lifestyle choices is another level. Armin’s social media platforms became a source of motivation in the days following the race, with fitness pages, fan accounts, and wellness blogs reposting the image and sharing their own running goals. The photo transcended borders because it was authentic—two people, bonded by love and movement, celebrating a simple but powerful accomplishment. Armin responded to several comments personally, thanking fans for their support and encouraging them to participate in events that celebrate wellness and community. That personal touch, combined with his authenticity, is what continues to keep him one of the most beloved figures in the entertainment industry.

What This Moment Means for Armin’s Legacy

While Armin van Buuren’s legacy in the world of electronic dance music is already cemented, moments like the Singelloop show that his influence goes far beyond music. He’s not just spinning records—he’s shaping culture. By participating in the Singelloop Leiden, he offered a subtle but powerful message: that success is more meaningful when it’s rooted in authenticity, love, and giving back. His fans are not just festival-goers—they’re part of a global movement that values emotional connection, wellness, and personal growth. This duality—being a megastar while also remaining deeply human—is rare, and it’s why Armin continues to stand apart in an increasingly fast-paced world. This event may seem small compared to the scale of his concerts, but in many ways, it’s one of the most profound statements he’s made in years.

Looking Ahead: More Than Music

With his calendar packed for the rest of 2025—including headline appearances at festivals in London, Ibiza, and São Paulo—Armin van Buuren shows no signs of slowing down. But what fans can expect more of in the future are moments like these—where he steps back from the stage and into the community. Sources close to Armin suggest he’s exploring ways to combine music with wellness, possibly launching initiatives that encourage fans to live healthier, more connected lives. Whether it’s organizing group runs during tour stops or partnering with health foundations, Armin’s next chapter may well include inspiring people both on the dance floor and in their everyday lives. The Singelloop Leiden wasn’t just a race—it was a reminder that the heart of a superstar still beats strongest when it’s aligned with purpose, community, and love. For fans old and new, it was a powerful reminder: Armin van Buuren isn’t just making music—he’s making moments that matter.