Sonar Festival is one of Europe’s most renowned celebrations of music, creativity, and technology and has been that way for years. It is set to return to Barcelona from June 12 to 14, 2025.
It was founded in 1994 and has become a global institution. It brings together popular artists, forward-thinking technology, and a vibrant community of music lovers from around the world.
Unlike typical summer festivals, Sonar is split into two experiences. Sonar by Day with performances, art installations, and the latest in digital culture. Sonar by Night transforms into a vibrant stage for world-class DJs and musicians.
Over the years, Sonar has hosted icons like Bjork, Kraftwerk, Rosalía,andAphex Twin. In 2025, the festival promises to continue pushing boundaries in electronic music and visual arts. Thousands of festival-goers will gather to enjoy the best of Barcelona’s creative energy. Whether you're drawn to the music, technology, or atmosphere, Sonar Festival 2025 is an event you won’t want to miss.
In this article:
How to Get Tickets for Sonar 2025
Tickets for Sonar 2025 are available online with several options:
SonarPass (€180) - Access to Sonar by Day and Sonar by Night for all three days.
SonarPass+D (€200) - Includes Sonar by Day, Sonar by Night, and Sonar+D.
VIP Pass: SonarPass VIP (€290), SonarPass+D VIP (€310)
Buy tickets through the official Sonar website. Be sure to purchase early, as tickets often sell out quickly.
Sonar by Day
Sonar by Day is a unique blend of music, art, and digital culture. Its held at Fira Montjuïc and includes performances from some of the most forward-thinking artists in the world, alongside innovative art installations and interactive exhibitions.
The 2025 lineup has yet to be announced, but Sonar by Day has always hosted a mix of established and emerging talent. Previous performers include icons like M.I.A., Björk, and The Roots, as well as cutting-edge experimental artists.
In addition to the music, attendees can explore a variety of stages such as SonarVillage, SonarHall, and SonarComplex, each giving you different experiences from live performances to immersive art.
For the latest artist announcements, you can check the official Sonar website.
Sonar by Night
Sonar by Night takes place at the Fira Gran Via and is the more electrifying half of the festival. The world’s biggest electronic and dance music artists take the stage during this part. Expect thrilling performances, cutting-edge visuals, and an incredible atmosphere that lasts until the early morning hours.
Previous Sonar by Night editions have featured acts like The Chemical Brothers, Skrillex, and Richie Hawtin, known for their energetic, immersive sets.
The 2025 lineup is still to be revealed, but festival-goers can anticipate a mix of world-class DJs and live performances across several stages, including SonarClub and SonarLab.
Transportation can be tricky late at night, so it's a good idea to plan ahead. Taxis and public transport tend to fill up quickly. Alternatively, pre-arranged transfers or private vehicles are available for a smoother experience.
For updates on the Sonar by Night lineup, check the official Sonar website.
Sonar+D
Running alongside Sonar by Day, Sonar+D is a three-day congress dedicated to creativity, technology, and business. It brings together innovators from various industries to explore the latest trends in digital culture, art, and tech.
The event includes talks, workshops, and exhibitions from leading figures in fields like AI, virtual reality, and music technology. Companies such as Google, Spotify, and MIT Media Lab have participated in past editions.
Sonar+D is open to both professionals and festival-goers.
History and Growth of Sonar Festival
Sonar Festival began in 1994 in Barcelona, created by Ricard Robles, Enric Palau, and Sergi Caballero. Originally called the "Festival of Advanced Music and Multimedia Art," it was a small event attended by around 6,000 people.
Over the years, Sonar quickly gained popularity, doubling its attendance by 1995 and attracting global attention. By the late 1990s, the festival expanded its lineup, venues, and capacity, with the number of visitors growing from 18,000 in 1996 to over 50,000 by 2000.
The early 2000s marked even more growth, with the introduction of large-scale performances and enticing audiovisual experiences at the Fira Gran Via venue. In 2013, the Sonar+D congress was introduced, blending creativity, technology, and business into the festival.
Today, Sonar is a global phenomenon, hosting annual editions in cities like Buenos Aires, Reykjavik, and Hong Kong. With each year, the festival continues to push boundaries, attracting over 120,000 visitors at its Barcelona edition alone.
Accommodation Tips for Sonar Attendees
Finding accommodation during Sonar can be tricky due to high demand, so it’s essential to book early.
Hotels near the festival venues at Fira Montjuïc or Fira Gran Via are convenient, but rates tend to rise during the festival weekend.
For budget travelers, hostels are a great option. Some popular choices include Generator Hostel in Eixample, and Kabul Party Hostel in the Gothic Quarter, which is perfect for those looking to be close to the nightlife. Another affordable option is Yeah Hostel Barcelona, with comfortable accommodations with easy access to public transport.
For groups, renting an apartment can be a cost-effective and spacious alternative. Platforms like Airbnb offer plenty of options, but make sure to book well in advance, as prices can increase by up to 30% closer to the event.
How to Get to the Sonar Festival in Barcelona?
The metro is the easiest way to reach Sonar. Fira Montjuïc (Sonar by Day) is near Espanya station (L1, L3), and Fira Gran Via (Sonar by Night) is accessible by a short train ride to Europa/Fira.
Taxis are available but in high demand, especially at night. Pre-booking a private transfer can save time, particularly if you're in a group.
Parking is available near both venues, but limited during peak times. For more flexibility, consider bike rentals to explore the city.
Plan ahead for late-night transport, as options fill up fast after Sonar by Night.
Final Tips for Sonar 2025
Sonar Festival 2025 promises an unforgettable experience of music and technology. To make the most of it, here are some extra tips.
For food, head to the city center for more variety, with great Catalan dishes like paella and tapas at places like La Boqueria Market. For late-night eats after Sonar by Night, grab a bite before leaving the venue as options are limited.
Looking for more action? Check out off-Sonar parties at clubs like Razzmatazz and Pacha, or find underground events through posters and flyers around town.
Plan your transport, stay, and meals ahead of time, and get ready for an incredible festival experience! For more information about festivals in Barcelona, read this.
