Stone Techno 2026: Everything You Need to Know About the Lineup and Innovations

Stone Techno Festival is returning for its sixth edition next July at the Unesco World Heritage site of Zollverein in Essen, Germany. The lineup for 2026 has just been unveiled, marking a new chapter for the festival as it expands physically, sonically and creatively.

From 10th-13th July, more than 100 artists will perform during the daytime festival and nighttime afterparties. This year’s roster will include an incredible mix of talent including the likes of Abs8lute, Benjamin Damage, Call Super, Colin Benders, DVS1, Gabrielle Kwarteng, Lady Starlight, Leon Vynehall, Marcal, Ogazón, OK Williams, Philippa Pacho, Quelza, Regal86, Rene Wise, Roman Flügel, Sedef Adasi, Skee Mask, The Lady Machine and so many more.

A groundbreaking concept for 2026, labels hosting stages at Stone will become a thing of the past. Six of the most influential artists in contemporary techno will each host a 12-hour lineup across one of the stages as part of a brand-new curation series. This innovative project will be accompanied by an exclusive 12-inch vinyl-only VA release, underscoring the festival’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries. The artists involved in the project are Alarico, D. Dan, Freddy K, Oscar Mulero, Gigi FM, and Verraco—each bringing their unique sound, redefining the festival experience.

The afterparties are also evolving, with both events now taking place on-site. One will be hosted at Zollverein’s usual favourite spot Mischlange, while the other moves into the stunning Grand Hall space—curated by London’s FOLD—previously held at Essen’s Weststadthalle in 2025. These late-night sessions promise to keep the energy and atmosphere alive until 7 a.m. each morning, featuring an exceptional lineup of artists including Colin Benders, Yanamaste, Dasha Rush, Alarico, Freddy K, Ogazón, Mola Mola, Gigi FM, Quelza, Rene Wise, Rødhåd, The Lady Machine, D. Dan, DVS1, Philippa Pacho, and many more.

Next year will also see the introduction of the brand-new stage, the Listening Floor – dedicated to experimental and ambient soundscapes. Designed as a seated amphitheatre with an integrated wine bar, this space offers an atmosphere of deep focus, stillness, and immersive listening. Sixteen artists will perform exclusively on this stage, blending concert and contemplative experiences such as festival founder Ahmet Sisman, Colin Benders, Legowelt, Vladimir Ivkovic, Barker, Grand River, Emily Jeanne and more, each delivering a unique sonic journey.

Ran by Essen based label and collective The Third Room, Stone’s backdrop of former coal mine Zollverein creates the ultimate industrial and dystopian setting for three days of raw, hypnotic techno. For those passionate about techno, cutting-edge sounds and forming connections on dancefloors, Stone Techno Festival is an experience not to be missed. For more information and tickets, click here