‘Feels Like Home’ – Martin Garrix Kicks Off Summer at Landstreff Stavanger: Is the Norwegian Festival His Favorite Destination?

Few DJs command a global stage quite like Martin Garrix, the Dutch EDM prodigy whose rise to superstardom redefined the genre for a new generation. As festival season ignites across Europe, Garrix has once again chosen to kick things off at a venue that holds special meaning for him: Landstreff Stavanger. For Garrix, returning to this Norwegian hotspot isn’t just about headlining another high-energy performance—it’s about returning to a place that, in his words, “feels like home.” But why does this festival resonate so deeply with him, and could it be his favorite destination on the global circuit?

Landstreff Stavanger has grown from a local celebration for Norwegian high school graduates into one of the most recognizable EDM events in Northern Europe. Its unique energy, audience enthusiasm, and scenic Nordic setting have earned it a loyal fan base—and Martin Garrix has been at the center of that experience for several years now. This year’s event, held in early May, marked yet another electrifying chapter in the ongoing connection between the artist and the festival.

Landstreff Stavanger: A Festival Like No Other

Landstreff Stavanger, often abbreviated as LS, is a youth-centered festival located in the city of Stavanger in southwestern Norway. What sets this event apart is its vibrant purpose—it celebrates the end of high school exams, attracting thousands of graduating students known as “Russ.” Dressed in colorful overalls and armed with boundless energy, the Russ transform the venue into a sea of euphoria, perfectly matching the explosive performances of world-renowned DJs like Garrix.

This intense energy is what initially drew Martin Garrix to the festival. While many events offer larger crowds or higher production budgets, few can match the raw, emotional intensity of LS. According to Garrix:

“Landstreff has something unique. It’s not just another gig—it’s emotional. These kids are celebrating the end of a chapter, and I get to be the soundtrack to that.”

This emotional synergy between artist and audience is rare. It goes beyond booking and performance—it’s a mutual celebration of joy, transition, and freedom.

Martin Garrix and Norway: A Musical Love Affair

Norway has played a special role in Martin Garrix’s career. Over the years, he has built a strong Nordic following, thanks in part to his melodic sensibility, emotional buildups, and commitment to fan interaction. His appearances at festivals like Findings, Palmesus, and of course, Landstreff Stavanger, have solidified his place in Norway’s music culture.

Garrix’s music—uplifting, euphoric, and emotionally resonant—aligns perfectly with the spirit of Norwegian youth. Tracks like “Scared to Be Lonely,” “There for You,” and his global anthem “Animals” resonate with listeners navigating young love, identity, and change—core themes during the Russ celebration.

The 2025 Edition: A Stunning Summer Kickoff

This year’s edition of Landstreff Stavanger was nothing short of spectacular. Garrix delivered a dynamic set blending fan favorites with unreleased material, stunning visuals, and moments of intimate connection with the crowd. The show opened with his latest hit “Real World,” a progressive house anthem that has been climbing charts globally.

The crowd erupted when he dropped “High on Life,” a track that has become an unofficial anthem at LS. Videos of Russ groups singing along, waving flares, and dancing in unison quickly flooded social media, reinforcing the bond between the artist and the Norwegian audience.

Behind the scenes, Garrix shared several Instagram stories showing him relaxing by the fjords, interacting with local fans, and even joining in on a few Russ traditions. One post captioned “Back where it all started 💙 #LS2025” hinted at the deep emotional value this venue holds for him.

Festival Culture and Personal Meaning: What Makes LS Stand Out?

For DJs like Garrix, who perform at 50+ festivals a year, each venue becomes a blur of stages, lights, and city names. But Landstreff Stavanger has managed to stand out—not through its size, but through its spirit. The youthful energy, local culture, and tradition of celebration create a vibe that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.

Moreover, Garrix has openly praised the festival’s organization and warm hospitality. Unlike commercial mega-festivals where logistics can feel industrial and rushed, LS treats performers with a sense of familiarity and comfort. This human touch matters more than fans realize.

“It’s the small details,” Garrix told a Norwegian media outlet. “From the moment I land in Stavanger, it feels relaxed. The team knows what I need, the crowd gives 200%, and the vibe is pure. That’s rare.”

Creative Recharge: Norway as Garrix’s Artistic Muse

There’s another dimension to Garrix’s love for Norway: creative inspiration. The serene landscapes, fjords, and slower pace of life offer a rare escape from the intense, sometimes chaotic world of international touring. Several of his track demos over the years were reportedly conceptualized during Nordic visits.

Garrix’s team has hinted that some of his upcoming album material was shaped by trips to Norway. The calm between shows allows for reflection, studio time, and connection with nature—elements that feed into his evolving sound, which continues to blend EDM with ambient and orchestral influences.

Building Legacy: Not Just a Festival Headliner, But a Cultural Icon

Martin Garrix’s repeated presence at LS has elevated him from guest performer to cultural icon. Norwegian fans see him not just as a DJ, but as a friend who returns each year to share in their rite of passage. It’s a legacy few artists build, and it explains why social media lights up with anticipation the moment his name is rumored for the LS lineup.

In 2025, the organizers even surprised fans with a “Garrix Tribute Tunnel,” a visual installation celebrating his history at the festival. Featuring photos, signed memorabilia, and video clips from previous years, the tunnel was a fan-favorite activation that paid homage to the shared journey.

What’s Next for Martin Garrix in Norway?

With Landstreff Stavanger 2025 in the books, Garrix is set to headline several other Scandinavian events this summer. However, rumors are swirling that he may return for a surprise pop-up show in Oslo before the end of the season. Whether or not it happens, one thing is clear—his emotional ties to Norway are stronger than ever.

Fans are also speculating about potential collaborations with Norwegian artists. Garrix has long expressed interest in working with Scandinavian vocalists and producers. Could a team-up with artists like Astrid S or Kygo be on the horizon?

Final Thoughts: A Home Away From Home

So, is Landstreff Stavanger Martin Garrix’s favorite festival destination? All signs point to yes. While it’s impossible to crown one stage above all others in a globe-spanning career, the emotional weight, cultural fit, and personal connection Garrix shares with LS make it more than just another booking.

For fans and organizers alike, his presence at Landstreff has become tradition—one that starts the summer with energy, unity, and the universal language of music. And for Garrix, Norway remains a sanctuary of inspiration, friendship, and creative rebirth.

In the ever-accelerating world of EDM, where trends fade and artists come and go, Martin Garrix’s bond with Landstreff Stavanger feels like something rare: enduring, personal, and deeply authentic.