Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), the world’s leading festival and business platform for electronic music, is proud to kick off its landmark 30 YEARS anniversary edition. To commemorate three decades of innovation and cultural impact, ADE has invited electronic music pioneer Jean-Michel Jarre as the special guest of honour in this defining year. He will headline the standout Opening Concert at AFAS Live on October 21st, engage in an exclusive keynote interview at ADE Pro, and make various appearances throughout the event.
ADE 2026 symbolizes a historic convergence in electronic music legacy. As ADE celebrates its 30-year anniversary, Jean-Michel Jarre reflects on the 50th anniversary of Oxygène, a pioneering masterwork that has influenced countless artists who have made their mark at ADE over the years. This dual celebration intertwines the paths of two influential milestones in the electronic music landscape.
Jean-Michel Jarre: ADE Opening Concert at AFAS Live
Under the aegis of ADE’s Opening Concerts, Jean-Michel Jarre makes a highly anticipated return to the Netherlands for an exclusive live performance at AFAS Live, presented by MOJO and Insomniac. This immersive show promises to translate his legacy of large-scale spectacles into a cutting-edge live experience, unfolding at one of Amsterdam’s signature venues.
Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Jean-Michel Jarre shared his thoughts: “Electronic music, as well as ADE, has a history, a legacy and a future. The live show at ADE is going to celebrate its 30th anniversary, but also the 50th anniversary of Oxygène. I have the ambition to keep the suspense and go from one track to another, into a different atmosphere, different stage design, mapping, giant projections and architectures of lights and videos, to share that moment that can stay in your heart and your brain for the rest of your lives.” His sincere excitement underscores the spectacle planned for the event, aimed at creating lasting memories.
Bridging the Past and Future at ADE Pro
Beyond his live performance, Jarre will play a pivotal role at ADE 2026 during the ADE Pro program, which emphasizes the intersection of the past and future of electronic music. This will include an exclusive keynote interview and potentially more surprises for attendees. From the early experimentation in studios to concerts that have transformed entire cityscapes into shared listening experiences, his involvement enhances the narrative of half a century of cultural evolution.
A true visionary, Jarre has consistently woven technology, light, and sound into the fabric of his artistry. At ADE, he is poised to interact with the community through various program tracks, sharing insights and stories that have shaped his illustrious career.
30 Years of Driving Electronic Music Forward
Reflecting on three decades of ADE, the event has evolved into the most influential platform for electronic music. It has created a framework that allowed a new genre to be recognized globally as an art form and an industry. This evolution has enabled artists, producers, and fans to come together in celebration of creativity and innovation.
As ADE 2026 approaches, many additional specials, initiatives, and events will be revealed, all dedicated to honoring the past while propelling the future of electronic music. The landmark celebration promises not only to acknowledge the rich history of ADE but also to set the stage for the next evolution of this thriving genre.
Save the dates: ADE 2026 will take place from October 21 – 25, 2026. For those eager to join this landmark celebration, tickets are available HERE.
