Armin van Buuren revealed that his ASOT 25 set will take fans back to the early days of his career—and he has a special surprise lined up for his performance on Day 2.

Armin van Buuren, the legendary Dutch DJ and founder of A State of Trance (ASOT), is set to take fans on an unforgettable journey at the 25th Anniversary festival in Rotterdam. Promising to relive the early days of his career and unveil a mysterious surprise in Set 3, Armin is preparing a festival experience that trance enthusiasts won’t want to miss. From iconic tracks to immersive stages and exclusive performances, ASOT 25 is shaping up to be a landmark event in the history of electronic music.

Introduction: A Milestone in Trance Music

In 2026, the global trance community will come together to celebrate a monumental occasion—the 25th anniversary of A State of Trance (ASOT). Founded by the legendary Dutch DJ and producer Armin van Buuren in 2001, ASOT has evolved from a humble radio show into a worldwide movement that has shaped the landscape of electronic dance music. To commemorate this milestone, Armin has announced a special two-day festival in Rotterdam, Netherlands, scheduled for February 27-28, 2026, at the iconic Rotterdam Ahoy. This event promises to be a journey through the rich history of trance music, featuring exclusive performances, nostalgic moments, and a special surprise that fans won’t want to miss.

A Journey Through 25 Years of Trance

The first night of the ASOT 25th Anniversary festival will feature three unique stages, including a special one titled Journey Through 25 Years of Trance. This immersive audio-visual experience will trace the evolution of the trance genre, from its underground roots to its current global prominence. Fans can expect to relive iconic moments, rediscover classic tracks, and experience the sounds that have defined the genre over the past quarter-century.

Armin van Buuren will headline the evening with an epic five-hour set, joined by legendary artists and rising stars who have contributed to the development of trance music. This performance is set to be a celebration of the genre’s rich history and its bright future. The following day, the excitement continues with five different stages, each offering a unique flavor of trance and progressive music, ensuring a diverse and unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Event Dates and Performance Schedule

The ASOT 25th Anniversary festival in Rotterdam is set to take place over two full days, February 27-28, 2026, at Rotterdam Ahoy.

• Day 1 – February 27, 2026:
  The opening day will feature three main stages, including the special Journey Through 25 Years of Trance stage. Armin van Buuren will headline with a five-hour set, taking fans on a nostalgic journey through his early career and iconic trance tracks. This day is designed to celebrate the roots of trance music, with performances from legendary artists and rising stars who have contributed to the genre’s evolution.

• Day 2 – February 28, 2026:
  The second day will bring even more excitement, with five stages showcasing different styles of trance and progressive music. Fans can anticipate the highly-anticipated Set 3 by Armin van Buuren, which promises a special surprise yet to be revealed. In addition to Armin’s performance, the day will feature guest appearances, exclusive live collaborations, and immersive audio-visual experiences across the festival grounds.

The two-day format ensures that attendees will have a full weekend of trance music, allowing them to experience the genre’s history, evolution, and future while enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere.

A Special Surprise Awaits Fans on Day 2

Armin van Buuren has teased that Set 3 on the second day of ASOT 25 will feature something truly unexpected and exclusive for fans. While the details remain a closely guarded secret, speculation within the trance community is already running wild.

Some fans believe the surprise could be:

• A special guest collaboration with another legendary trance artist or an emerging talent, creating a once-in-a-lifetime live performance.

• A never-before-heard remix of a classic ASOT track, tailored specifically for the anniversary celebration.

• An innovative audio-visual experience, combining cutting-edge production, immersive lighting, and interactive elements that push the boundaries of live trance shows.

This mystery element is designed to make the second day of the festival unforgettable, giving attendees an experience they cannot get anywhere else. It’s a perfect way to reward loyal fans who have followed Armin van Buuren and ASOT for decades, while also introducing newer audiences to the magic and innovation of trance music.

Armin’s promise of a surprise reflects his commitment to creating memorable moments and keeping the spirit of ASOT alive through innovation, nostalgia, and connection with the audience. For those attending Rotterdam Ahoy, anticipation is building as fans eagerly wonder what this special performance will reveal.

The Evolution of A State of Trance

Since its inception in 2001, A State of Trance (ASOT) has grown from a weekly radio show into one of the most influential brands in electronic dance music. Broadcasting to over 40 million listeners in 84 countries, ASOT has become a platform for discovering new music, showcasing emerging talent, and connecting fans from around the world. The annual ASOT festivals have become a staple in the electronic music calendar, attracting thousands of fans eager to experience the magic of live performances and the energy of the trance community.

Armin van Buuren‘s commitment to the genre and its fans has been unwavering throughout the years. His passion for music and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous accolades, including being named the World’s No. 1 DJ five times by DJ Mag. Through ASOT, Armin has not only entertained millions but has also played a pivotal role in shaping the direction of trance music and ensuring its continued growth and relevance in the ever-evolving electronic music landscape.

Why You Can’t Miss ASOT 25

ASOT 25 promises to be more than just a festival—it will be a celebration of the trance community, a tribute to the genre’s rich history, and a glimpse into its exciting future. With a lineup featuring legendary artists, rising stars, and special performances, this event is set to deliver an unparalleled experience for fans old and new. The immersive stages, state-of-the-art production, and electrifying atmosphere will create an unforgettable environment where fans can connect, dance, and celebrate together.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Armin van Buuren and A State of Trance (ASOT) or new to the world of trance music, ASOT 25 is an event you won’t want to miss. It’s an opportunity to be part of a historic moment in electronic music, to experience the magic of live performances, and to join a community of passionate fans who share your love for the music.

Ticket Information and Travel Tips

Tickets for ASOT 25 will go on sale on September 11, 2025, with pre-registration available for early access. Given the high demand for this event, it’s advisable to secure your tickets as soon as possible to ensure your place at this landmark celebration.

For those traveling to Rotterdam, the city offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets. The official ASOT Hotel Package includes exclusive perks such as access to the Thursday pre-party and rare access to the live radio broadcast. These packages sold out within 30 minutes last year, underscoring their popularity and the unique experiences they offer.

Rotterdam Ahoy is easily accessible via public transportation, with Rotterdam Centraal Station located nearby. Attendees are encouraged to plan their travel in advance and consider using public transit to reach the venue, as it offers a convenient and eco-friendly option.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Trance Music

ASOT 25 is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of the journey that Armin van Buuren, A State of Trance (ASOT), and the global trance community have embarked upon over the past 25 years. It’s a chance to relive the moments that have defined the genre, to experience the music that has brought fans together, and to look forward to the future of trance music.

As Armin van Buuren prepares to take the stage for his special five-hour set, fans can expect a performance that encapsulates the essence of A State of Trance (ASOT)—a blend of nostalgia, innovation, and pure musical energy. With Set 3 promising a special surprise, the anticipation is palpable, and the excitement is building.

Don’t miss out on this historic celebration of trance music. Secure your tickets now and be part of a weekend that will be remembered for years to come.