The countdown to Amsterdam Dance Event 2026 has officially begun, and one of dance music’s biggest names is leading the charge. Armin van Buuren has announced that he will headline the official opening night celebration of ADE 2026, taking over the legendary Gashouder on Wednesday, October 21.
The announcement marks the first major event reveal for the 30th edition of the world’s largest electronic music conference and festival. Armin will be joined by rising Dutch hard house sensation Benwal, creating a unique blend of trance and modern hard dance sounds that promises to set the tone for an unforgettable ADE week.
This year’s opening party carries additional significance as it celebrates the return of Gashouder following an extensive renovation project that began in January 2025. The iconic venue has long been considered one of Amsterdam’s most revered electronic music destinations, hosting countless memorable performances throughout ADE’s history. Its reopening represents a major milestone for both the venue and the festival as they prepare to welcome thousands of electronic music fans from around the world.
The announcement comes during an especially active period for Armin van Buuren. Alongside the ADE news, the Dutch superstar has unveiled his latest single, U Got 2 Know, released through Armada Music. The track sees Armin collaborating with Scottish hard house breakout artist Hannah Laing and Dutch trance veteran Wippenberg.
The release offers a contemporary reimagining of U Got 2 Know, originally made famous by Italian dance act Capella in 1993. By combining classic rave nostalgia with modern production techniques, the collaboration bridges generations of dance music fans while showcasing the continued evolution of the genre.
The Gashouder opening party is only the beginning of what is shaping up to be a landmark ADE celebration. Organizers have already confirmed a separate Gashouder event headlined by Job Jobse, with additional programming announcements expected in the months ahead.
ADE 2026 will run from October 21–25 and marks a major milestone as the festival celebrates its 30th anniversary. Earlier this year, organizers revealed that electronic music pioneer Jean-Michel Jarre will serve as the festival’s guest of honor. Jarre is scheduled to perform as part of the ADE Opening Concert series at AFAS Live on the same evening as Armin’s Gashouder event, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of his groundbreaking album Oxygène.
Last year’s edition demonstrated ADE’s continued global influence, welcoming more than 3,300 artists across nearly 250 venues throughout Amsterdam. With the festival reaching its 30-year milestone in 2026, expectations are already running high for what could become one of the most significant editions in its history.
For trance fans, hard dance enthusiasts, and ADE veterans alike, Armin van Buuren’s return to Gashouder provides an exciting first glimpse into what promises to be another unforgettable week in the Dutch capital.
Pre-sale tickets for the Armin van Buuren x Benwal opening party are available through Gashouder registration, with general event details and additional ADE programming expected to be announced in the coming months.
