After an opening weekend of huge proportions, Ibiza summer 2023 is here and no force of brake-power is slowing us down. We might only be a few weeks into the season, but that doesn't mean that the bookers at the clubs and promoters are being frugal on their line-ups. We're being spoilt.
Before the end of the month, some of the biggest DJs on the planet will be jetting in to entertain May visitors in the party capital of the world.
With so much going on, we've whittled down our highlights of the month. In case you're still feeling indecisive, the clubbing team each make their personal pick. Can we tempt you to the dancefloor for any of these?
Adam Beyer B2B Layton Giordani | Amnesia Opening Party
Saturday 13 May
picked by Stephen Hunt
Before the Ibiza season got underway, I had the pleasure of returning to Time Warp DE in Mannheim after far too many years away.
Taking place the first weekend in April, the 19-hour Techno marathon marks the end of winter clubbing in Europe, right before summer (and Ibiza) begins. Just like the last time I visited in 2017, it was Adam Beyer who stole the show for me. And, just like in 2017, it was Beyer playing Layton Giordani's music that left the biggest impression.
Fast forward a few weeks and the Drumcode master and his protege are playing back-to-back together at Amnesia's Opening Party. That is a prospect that I cannot miss. Trust me, the music has the potential to be the best you'll hear all year.
Layton is just a demon in the studio and Adam has an ear for it.
MORE INFO | BUY TICKETS - including Early Entry pre-01:00 and Wake Up & Dance tickets
Nick Warren | Summerians | Las Dalias & Akasha
Friday 19 May
picked by Hayley Morgan
There's always something special about attending parties led by learned hands. Not just the sound they've honed after years mastering the craft, but the crowd they attracts. It tends to bring those seeking an experience, less about the bangers and more about the journey.
I remember Nick Warren from 'back in the day'. Las Dalias and Akasha offer the perfect setting for him. In the garden the energy builds as night falls and there is a palpable magic that develops between the DJ and the crowd.
Come midnight, those ready for more pick it up inside Akasha. Retaining the intimate feel, it's like a secret afters that you feel smug at nabbing an invite to. I'm not even sure what to expect, but I'm excited to see where his set takes us. Slightly more melodic to begin before leaning into those deeper electronic drives maybe? MORE INFO | BUY TICKETS
keinemusik | Pacha
Sunday 21 May
picked by Lissy Lübeck
Berlin collective keinemusik are bringing their percussive, tribal sounds and lush melodies to the prestigious Pacha on Sunday 21 May. The exclusive island performance is part of the club's pre-season programme. Quite frankly, we could not be more excited.
Made up of &Me, Adam Port and Rampa (with occasional assistance from Resnik and Monja) this network of artists and close friends have established themselves as one of the most dynamic DJ outfits in the game.
The fun-loving group have spent their recent years touring the globe, but now return to Pacha.
With their self-named label at the centre of everything they do, their off-beat House and Techno infused productions and infectious DJ sets champion positivity. This date is one you need to save in your diary. MORE INFO | BUY TICKETS
Ewan McVicar | Calvin Harris opening party | Ushuaïa
Friday 26 May
picked by Jo Dargie
Still riding on the momentum of his sold out Pavilion Festival launch, I predict no let-up from Ewan McVicar as he joins Calvin Harris' opening party at Ushuaïa.
Whether he's cutting between old school Acid House or fresh Tech House bangers, Ewan McVicar's sets are pure, unadulterated fun. At the party people's playground Ushuaïa of all places, vibes will be off the chart.
On top of that, Calvin Harris' residency already has form for being one of the hottest and fastest-selling parties of summer.
I can be buoyed by a 2010s throwback (I'm only human after all), but the inclusion of breakthrough names across the programme such as Ewan McVicar, Schak and LF System is a power move in diversifying the line-ups. MORE INFO
Our allocation for Calvin Harris has already sold out, underlining the popularity of the party. Head here to discover the rest of Ushuaïa's fantastic summer programme.
Some great sets to look forward to, but of course that's only the proverbial tip of the iceberg.
For a full overview of everything going on day and night, including confirmed line-ups, please visit our essential party calendar.
WORDS | by Stephen Hunt, Hayley Morgan, Lissy Lübeck and Jo Dargie
