The 34th Dour Festival ended on a high note in the wee hours of Monday, after averaging 44,300 visitors per day, according to its organisers.
This year's edition, which opened on 17 July in sunny Dour-Quiévrain beneath towering wind turbines, saw a total of 221,920 attendees.
“The site’s transformation was remarkable,” said the organisers. “It has become greener, more spacious, and better decorated, promoting inclusivity, friendliness, and kindness.”
Over 230 artists graced the festival's eight stages. Highlights included performances from loyal artistes such as TRYM, rappers Hugo TSR and Josman, Belgium’s own Caballero & JeanJass, Charlotte Adigéry & Bolis Pupul, and international sensations from Borinage, Ganja White Night.
US superstar Ice Spice’s performance was a hit, along with Kaaris’s rendition of his album Or Noir'.
'The police reported a positive safety outcome, devoid of major incidents. While several arrests were made, these were mostly for possession of illegal substances, during routine checks.
However, a camping gas cylinder exploded at about 7.15 p.m. on Friday at the volunteers’ campsite, resulting in a minor fire. The blaze was quickly contained by firefighters, but three people were injured in the explosion. Two of them were taken to hospital with severe burns.
Transportation-wise, the overall assessment was also positive, except for some congestion on incoming routes on the first day, due to camper arrivals.
Police checked 958 vehicles throughout the festival. Of these, 84 drivers were found impaired—38 from drugs and 46 from alcohol. Substances seized included 257.56 grammes of marijuana, 72.54 grammes of cocaine, 248 XTC pills, and 9.19 grammes of MDMA.
Some 2,734 festival-goers visited the medical station for treatment, primarily for burns, wounds, and drug consumption. Of these, 32 were taken to hospital for further treatment.
The 35th edition of the Dour Festival is scheduled for 16-20 July 2025.
