How does Armin van Buuren spend his free time with family during his busy tour schedule?

Balancing a global career in electronic dance music with family life is no small feat, but Armin van Buuren, one of the most iconic figures in the EDM scene, continues to prove that it’s not only possible—it’s deeply meaningful. As he dominates festival main stages, sells out arenas, and curates his A State of Trance empire, fans are often left wondering: how does Armin van Buuren spend his free time with family during his busy tour schedule?

Despite the non-stop demands of DJing, producing, and running a worldwide brand, Armin remains a devoted husband and father, consistently carving out space for personal connection with his wife Erika and their two children. This behind-the-scenes look into his personal life offers an inspiring reminder that even the world’s busiest artists make time for what truly matters.

Let’s dive into the habits, routines, and values that guide Armin van Buuren when he steps away from the decks and back into dad mode.

Armin van Buuren’s Philosophy on Work-Life Balance

Over the years, Armin van Buuren has spoken openly about the struggles and importance of finding balance between his high-octane touring life and the peaceful, grounding experience of being with his family.

He once told a Dutch media outlet:
“Success is not just measured in music charts or sold-out venues. For me, it’s measured in time I get to spend with my children. That’s what keeps me human.”

This statement captures his central philosophy: family is his anchor. While his schedule is packed with international commitments, he has developed a disciplined structure that prioritizes quality time with his loved ones—even if it means sacrificing rest or scaling back certain opportunities.

Mini Vacations and Strategic Downtime Between Tours

Instead of waiting for long holidays, Armin often plans mini-vacations between tour legs. Whether it’s a long weekend in the Dutch countryside, a short escape to Spain, or a few calm days by the beach, these breaks allow him to recharge and reconnect.

His wife Erika and their children often join him on tour stops in family-friendly destinations. For example:

• After his sets at Tomorrowland Belgium, the family has been spotted enjoying scenic boat rides and picnics in the countryside.

• During summer appearances in Ibiza, they take advantage of the Mediterranean lifestyle—balancing beach time, sunset dinners, and family hikes.

By bringing his family along when possible, Armin makes his professional life more inclusive and less isolating—an approach that many artists find difficult to manage.

Fatherhood and Daily Rituals at Home

When he’s home in Leiden, Netherlands, Armin van Buuren lives a surprisingly normal life. He takes his kids to school, helps with homework, and enjoys small but meaningful routines like preparing breakfast or walking the dog with his daughter.

He once shared in an interview:
“My favorite time of day is when I’m just sitting with my kids at the dinner table, talking about their day. That’s when I feel the most connected.”

His daily family rituals include:

• Morning coffee with Erika before the day begins.

• Storytime or movie nights with the children on weekends.

• Cooking simple meals together, especially pasta, which the whole family enjoys.

• Limiting screen time to ensure real conversation happens.

Despite being one of the world’s top DJs, Armin prefers a low-key home environment, rich with warmth, humor, and presence.

How Armin Involves His Family in His Creative World

Interestingly, Armin’s family is not just separate from his career—they’re sometimes participants in it. His children are growing up in a musical household, and he occasionally includes them in behind-the-scenes moments.

In fact, fans may remember the adorable moment when Armin brought his son onto the main stage at a festival, sharing the spotlight briefly before returning to his set.

He also said in a vlog that his wife is his most trusted critic. Erika gives honest feedback on tracks, helping him sense whether a song connects emotionally beyond the dance floor.

Family inspires his creativity in subtle and powerful ways. Some of his softer melodic compositions—such as “For All Time” and “This Is What It Feels Like”—reflect this influence.

The Importance of Digital Boundaries

One of Armin’s secrets to maintaining quality time at home is his commitment to digital boundaries. While he uses social media for career purposes, he is careful not to let it bleed into his family time.

He revealed:
“When I’m with my family, I try to put my phone away. They deserve my full attention. Emails and fans can wait—my kids won’t be this young forever.”

This mindset allows him to be fully present, whether it’s during a board game at home or an afternoon walk in the park.

It’s a deliberate strategy to separate performance mode from personal mode—a distinction that many artists struggle to maintain.

How Erika Supports the Balance

Behind Armin’s stability is his wife, Erika van Buuren, who plays an essential role in managing their family life. They’ve been together since before his career took off, and she has helped him stay grounded through the highs and lows of fame.

Erika is known for being fiercely protective of their family’s privacy while also being a supportive partner in his public life. Their bond is built on trust, shared values, and communication, which allows Armin to navigate the complexities of his profession with clarity.

She also helps maintain the household while he’s on tour, ensuring that the kids have consistency, which makes transitions between home and travel smoother for everyone.

Teaching His Children About Passion and Discipline

Armin doesn’t shy away from teaching his children about the value of hard work, commitment, and emotional expression through music. But he also teaches them not to chase fame.

He once said:
“I tell them that success isn’t about being famous. It’s about doing what you love and making people happy while staying true to who you are.”

His son has shown some interest in music production, and Armin encourages him, but without pressure. Instead, he focuses on instilling emotional intelligence, balance, and joy in whatever path they choose.

Looking Ahead: More Balance in the Future?

As Armin enters the next phase of his career—with an evolving sound, mature outlook, and growing family—many fans wonder whether he’ll reduce touring to spend more time at home.

While he shows no signs of stopping completely, he has hinted that more studio time and fewer travel-heavy commitments could be part of his future.

He’s also expressed interest in doing more Open To Close shows, where he can control the pacing of his schedule while offering deeper artistic experiences.

Ultimately, Armin van Buuren’s legacy will not only be built on hits and headlining sets, but also on how he remained a present father, a loyal husband, and a man of integrity in an industry that rarely allows for all three.

Final Thoughts: Armin van Buuren’s Family Time Is His True Masterpiece

Amid the flashing lights, roaring crowds, and relentless demands of being an international DJ, Armin van Buuren has carved out a quiet masterpiece—a stable, loving home anchored in mutual respect, presence, and joy.

He shows that it’s possible to chase dreams without losing sight of what matters most. In a culture that often glamorizes the grind, Armin’s family-first mindset is a refreshing and deeply human reminder that the truest success happens when the stage lights go off.

For fans, this peek into Armin’s personal life adds a new layer of respect. He’s not just a master of melodies—he’s also a man who knows that real connection doesn’t just happen in music. It happens at home.