The Best Kept Secret festival in Hilvarenbeek, Netherlands, kicked off its 2025 edition under a scorching sun, with attendees seeking refuge from the unexpected heat. Despite meticulous preparations, including alternative transportation and rain gear, many festival-goers were caught off guard by the intense sunshine and lack of sunscreen.

Fortunately, the festival grounds at Safaripark Beekse Bergen offered ample shaded areas, and sunscreen dispensers provided by Zilveren Kruis were a welcome addition. The scheduling of main stage performances for later in the day also helped attendees avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

However, the initial hours of the festival were marked by a subdued atmosphere. While performances by Droom Dit and Das Pop drew crowds to The Secret tent, the overall feeling of collective celebration was not yet palpable. Some attributed this to the heat and the preference for smaller stages during the early hours.

DJ St. Paul’s set at St. Paul’s DJ tables provided a vibrant alternative for those seeking a break from band performances. His eclectic mix of music, spanning genres from disco to techno, and the presence of guest DJs like Maha, contributed to the developing festive atmosphere.

As the afternoon progressed, the Casbah stage came alive with a performance by Long Fling, a Dutch indie-rock supergroup. Their diverse and energetic set, reminiscent of the New York punk venue CBGB’s, captivated the audience and highlighted the unique surprises that Best Kept Secret offers.