The 33rd edition of the Sónar festival is moving entirely to L'Hospitalet, specifically to the Fira Gran Via venue, taking place from June 18th to 20th. British techno group The Prodigy headlines the lineup, marking their first participation in the festival after decades of anticipation. They are scheduled to perform on Saturday night, sharing the stage with artists such as Skepta, Charlotte de Witte, and Amelie Lens.
Unlike previous years, there will be no distinction between Sónar by Day and Sónar by Night this time. All programming will be concentrated at Fira Granvia, spread across six stages, half of which will be outdoors. The festival will feature over a hundred acts with up to 14 hours of daily music. Doors open at 5 PM each day, with closing times extending to 3 AM on Thursday and 7 AM on Friday and Saturday.
The consolidation of all concerts in L'Hospitalet has necessitated a more extensive security and mobility operation by the Mossos d'Esquadra (Catalan Police). The chief superintendent of the city's police station, Sònia Rius, highlighted that coverage and hours are being expanded, with over 100 officers ensuring the safety of attendees, many of whom will be of various nationalities. The operation aims to be flexible to respond to potential incidents.
The primary offenses targeted for prevention are drug trafficking and theft, particularly of mobile phones. Police are urging attendees to exercise extreme caution, such as keeping phones in front pockets or carrying backpacks at the front, and to remain vigilant with personal belongings. Last year, over 130 mobile phones were recovered, and sixteen arrests were made for public health offenses and theft.
In terms of musical offerings, notable national urban scene artists include Metrika and Main Costa. Electronic music enthusiasts can also experience the experimentation of STOOR Live, a 10-handed improvisation project by techno legend Speedy J. The international lineup is further enriched by acts like Dom Dolla, Nia Archives, Sammy Virji, Joy Orbison, and Cabaret Voltaire.
Sónar+D is relocating this year to the Llotja de Mar in Barcelona, after more than a decade sharing space with Sónar by Day at Fira de Montjuïc. Additionally, Sónar Kids returns to the Parc del Fòrum, and Sónar District and OFFSónar complete the offerings, alongside the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the club Moog.
