Eurosonic Noorderslag Groningen

What to expect from Eurosonic Noorderslag in Groningen?

Eurosonic Noorderslag (ESNS) is a non-profit, 100% showcase festival exclusively featuring European artists, accompanied by an international music conference.

Eurosonic stands as the largest showcase festival in Europe, taking place every January on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday before Noorderslag in Groningen. It's a key component of Eurosonic Noorderslag, showcasing around 250 bands and acts on 36 stages throughout the city.

ESNS consistently sells out, attracting over 4,000 professional delegates, including 400 international festivals. It presents showcases of more than 350 European artists to over 40,000 attendees. Notable acts such as Altin Gün, Arlo Parks, Dua Lipa, Fontaines D.C., girl in red, and many more have benefited from the festival's platform.

A bit of history

Learn about the festival's origins, past Popprijs winners, the beer shower, emerging ESNS programs and ESNS in Groningen!

The First time!

In 1986, Noorderslag debuted as part of the Holland-Belgium festival, a friendly competition between Dutch and Belgian bands. Why Groningen? According to organizer Peter Smidt, many bands didn't visit Groningen, providing a new platform for both bands and locals.

North Against the Rest of the Netherlands

Initially, it was the North of the Netherlands against the rest. In subsequent years, local bands showcased their talent, gaining visibility often overlooked elsewhere. Despite challenges, the festival persisted, with 44,000 attendees in 2023 post-pandemic.

Noorderslag Becomes Eurosonic

With growing success, the ambition arose to include acts beyond the Netherlands. Thus, in 1999, an international sibling emerged: Eurosonic. It became a festival of national stature, attracting foreign bands and solidifying Groningen's appeal. ESNS served as a breakthrough for international acts like Franz Ferdinand, Editors, Triggerfinger, and Lykke Li.

Nowadays

Eurosonic features new European acts aiming to connect with bookers, festivals, and radio stations. Notably, Noorderslag continues to thrive for Dutch pop music enthusiasts.

The Popprijs

Since 1986, the Popprijs is awarded during Noorderslag, recognizing significant contributions to Dutch pop music. It showcases the diversity of the Dutch music scene, reflecting the festival's programming goals. On the photo you see the election of 2010, when Caro Emerald won! Read more about it here.

The Infamous Beer Shower

The iconic beer shower was once part of the Popprijs celebration but was discontinued in 2015. The tradition, born in 1992 out of dissatisfaction, became a signature moment, but changes were welcomed for the benefit of artists, equipment, and the venue.

Line Up Eurosonic 2024

ESNS is an integral part of the national and international music scene, featuring a diverse lineup. The 2024 line up includes Dutch acts and emerging European names, emphasizing the festival's commitment to showcasing talent.

3 FM the Ochtendshow with Rob & Wijnand have selected Joost Klein to go perform this year. Read more about it here. Do you want to know what is the exact line up? Then we re-direct you to the page of Eurosonic itself and you can checke the lineup here.

Nothing Beats Groningen

Eurosonic Noorderslag has become a cultural heritage of Groningen, evolving from a one-night event to a 4-day festival. The city's enthusiasm is evident in the numerous side events organized by pubs, venues, and booking agencies.

This festival, with its rich history, remains one of Groningen's annual highlights. We're already excited!