Barcelona’s Primavera Sound just wrapped its 23rd edition with staggering numbers: 293,000 attendees across a week of music that solidified its status as a global festival powerhouse. Selling out five months in advance, this year’s lineup didn’t just meet expectations but shattered them, blending marquee headliners with underground gems while fostering an electric connection between artists and fans.

The festival’s final main day spotlighted Chappell Roan, LCD Soundsystem, Fontaines D.C., Turnstile, and Central Cee, capping off a bill that had already seen Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tame Impala deliver career-defining sets. But beyond the star power, what stood out was the camaraderie: artists becoming fans, fans becoming part of the show. Chappell Roan dancing to Charli XCX’s “Apple” choreography on-screen, IDLES crowd-surfing, and Troye Sivan celebrating his 30th birthday mid-set because, as he put it, his friends were all there anyway.

Primavera’s magic has always been its ability to host countless micro-festivals within one. Kali Malone’s drone meditations shared the weekend with FKA twigs’ art-pop precision, Jamie xx’s marathon DJ set, and Palestinian duo Shabjdeed & Al Nather’s politically charged rap. TV On the Radio’s reunion, Wet Leg’s high-energy preview of their sophomore album, and Salem’s ultra-rare live appearance proved the lineup’s depth—no two experiences were the same.

Behind the scenes, 7,300 staff ensured the Parc del Fòrum ran seamlessly, while Primavera Pro drew 3,200 industry professionals from 68 countries, reinforcing Barcelona’s role as a music capital. With three female headliners (Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan) closing each night, the festival’s 2019 gender-balanced booking pledge has fully crystallized into a new normal.

As Porto prepares to take the baton next week, Primavera Sound Barcelona has already set dates for 2026 (June 4-6).