The first headliner for Pukkelpop has been confirmed. Billie Eilish is returning to the Kiewit festival grounds on Friday 18 August. The American music phenomenon’s second appearance at Pukkelpop was announced this morning in cooperation with the municipality of Hasselt.

Announcing an artist for your festival is always exciting, whether it’s for the umpteenth time or, as in this case, an absolute superstar. Until you drop that first name, every day feels a bit like the run-up to Domino Day. The scene is set with the utmost dedication and circumspection, just as if you were setting up domino blocks. All that’s needed now is that final nudge and then... you’re off.

BILLIE’S BACK!

Friday 18 August will be a red-letter day for Billie Eilish fans. In 2019, on the cusp of total world domination, Billie delivered a memorable performance that remains firmly etched in our memory. Initially she was tentatively programmed in the Dance Hall but before long her soaring popularity catapulted her onto the main stage. At just 21 years of age, Billie Eilish is Pukkelpop’s youngest headliner ever and one of the leading and most heralded singer-songwriters of her generation. Some matches are made in heaven.

Since the release of her 2015 debut single, Billie Eilish continues to smash every record in the book ranging from streams, record sales and concerts to converted nominations for every conceivable prize in the music industry. This summer, Billie is bringing her current Happier Than Ever world tour to Pukkelpop.

Pukkelpop spokesman Frederik Luyten: “Billie’s back! Yes, we are so proud she has agreed to perform at Pukkelpop again, especially since she’s only appearing at a handful of European festivals this summer. Those who caught her 2019 performance here will definitely remember that gigantic throng in front of the main stage, truly unprecedented for a Sunday in broad daylight. Spine-chilling!”

HASSELT HAS THE FIRST NAME FOR PUKKELPOP

In an interactive glass container on the Verbindingsplein near the Quartier Bleu in Hasselt, at exactly 11 a.m., the name of the American superstar popped onto more than 30 TV screens at once. A clever piece of work by Limburg-based artist duo Superview Tv. This Thursday and Friday, at the same time and location, several other key names for the 2023 edition of Pukkelpop will be revealed. The ticket sales start date will be announced shortly.

Whether you like indie, rock, pop, hip hop, electronic or simply everything, Pukkelpop is a must-see festival for any music enthusiast. All bets are off on this four-day musical city trip with a guaranteed sensory overload.

See you in the festival arena next August!