Global Dance Festival to Return in 2026 After 2025 Hiatus
The festival scene has experienced significant losses recently, and now electronic dance music (EDM) enthusiasts in and around Denver have to add another cancellation to their list. The Global Dance Festival has confirmed that it will not occur in 2025, but plans are in place for its return in 2026.
“From its inception at Red Rocks to its growth into a major festival, GDF has created a legacy cherished by both artists and fans,” states a statement from Global Dance, the organization behind the event. “This year, we will take a break from the festival, but rest assured — GDF will return in 2026.”
The Global Dance Festival was initially known as Rave on the Rocks and later as Weekend of E during its organization by local radio station 93.3 KTCL from 1999 to 2002. In 2003, Global Dance, previously known as Triad Dragons Entertainment, took over the brand. The festival shifted from Red Rocks Amphitheatre to the parking lot of Sports Authority Field (now Empower Field) at Mile High in 2017.
The 2024 edition of GDF faced challenges due to a venue change to the National Western Complex, which required the main stage to be set up indoors for the first time in the festival’s history. While critiques of event lineups are common in the age of social media, last year’s festival appeared particularly impacted by such feedback.
“We understand the significance of GDF to our community and want to express our gratitude for your ongoing love and support,” the organizers concluded in their statement. “Let’s global dance!”
