Neopop and the birth of “the capital of techno”
We know you’re probably here to learn more about Porto but today we invite you to venture further north, to discover one of the most respected electronic music festivals in Europe. We’re talking about the Neopop music Festival, which from the 7-10 August will welcome some of the most renowned contemporary DJs from around the globe.
The short 30 min ride from Porto’s airport is definitely worth it if you’re looking for days of non-stop partying, where every second is filled with the finest electronic music and dancing. This, combined with a beautiful landscape in the background, will grant you an experience of a lifetime.
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
Neopop started over ten years ago, when the founders concluded that there was still something lacking in the Portuguese music festival scene: a world class electronic music festival. It’s a genre known for typically attracting big crowds and with a lot of devoted fans, so it wasn’t hard to acknowledge it had strong potential.
Things started slowly, with a smaller venue and line-up that mostly consisted of national acts, but it quickly rose to prominence as it became a mandatory stop for die hard techno fans.
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
By attending the festival, it will also be the perfect chance to discover the Minho Region, specifically the town of Viana do Castelo. It’s a beautiful city by the sea, full of history and traditions, especially revolving around dance and music. The food is also amazing and it will be easy to find places where to enjoy conventional Portuguese dishes. Due to all of these elements, the city is now on the radar of a much younger audience and festival-goers proudly claim “Viana for the capital of techno”.
2019 Edition – “Techno is Law”
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
This year, Neopop revolves around the “Techno Patrol” and they will be making sure you’re having your fill of world class Techno. The unique concept serves to remind festival-goers that once the much anticipated first day arrives, you become part of this big family where everyone has got your back and your biggest concern is just to have fun and dance the time away with your fellow Techno brothers and sisters. Remembering that you’re all united by music.
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
The festival venue includes two main stages – Neo and Anti stage – that will receive some of the best acts and performances from around the world. Some of the headliners include Underworld (Live), Jeff Mills, Richie Hawtin, Amelie Lens, Ben Klock, Paco Osuna, Pan Pot and many many more.
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
Underworld were on the forefront of the underground techno scene during the 90’s, releasing anthems like “Born Slippy (Nuxx)” that was one of the hits on the soundtrack of the movie “Trainspotting”. Much to their fans delight, they came back in 2016 with a new album that proves they are still one of the most iconic acts in electronic music.
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
Jeff Mills is credited as being one of the figureheads of the second wave of Detroit Techno and has heavily contributed to the development and dissemination of electronic music to a global audience. His sets are often intricate, pushing boundaries and reaching other worldly dimensions – something that would be impossible without a little magic and skill. That’s why he is nicknamed “the wizard”.
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
Richie Hawtin is one of the pioneering artists in electronic music and recently received DJ Mag’s Best of North America Outstanding Contribution Award 2019. Known for his minimal techno style, he is constantly finding new ways to innovate and grow, especially when it concerns his live shows.
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
Amelie Lens has taken dance floors and festivals by storm and rapidly became one of the most in-demand DJ/Producers with sold-out shows all over the world. Driven by her passion for techno, her sets are intense and full of energy, including dancefloor anthems that will hypnotize you.
But the festival doesn’t just stop there. Besides the two main stages, there’s also one at the event campsite, as well as a more intimate stage at Teatro Sá de Miranda, right in the heart of the city of Viana do Castelo. Keep your eyes peeled for announcements about the performances that will take place at these stages.
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
If during the festival you’re also looking to have some adventurous experiences, keep in mind that your Neopop ticket grants you discounts on several activities like stand-up paddle, horseback riding, wakeboard or bike tours. Just check Portugal Active and Neopop’s facebook page to get more information about these opportunities.
Where to stay and transportation
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
In order to get the true festival experience, camping is always the best option – especially at Neopop where you’ll have easy access to the campsite stage.
If camping is not really your thing and you’re really craving that hotel life, there are plenty of places to choose from like Hotel Rali, Hotel Axis and Feel Viana. The Youth Hostel is also a great option if you’re on a budget. There are also special ticket packs you can get, that grant you access to the festival and accommodation.
If you are travelling from Porto you can get the train to Viana and your Neopop ticket will grant you a 30% discount, check the CP site to learn more. There’s also a direct bus to Viana do Castelo (check this website, available in Portuguese only) and if you’re planning to travel by car, it’s only a short 45min ride from Porto and the perfect chance to listen to some of the artists that’ll be performing.
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
Tickets
Daily passes and four-day passes are now available, and you can get them here. But, if you are looking to have a VIP-like festival experience, the Neopop Plus Pass might be the right choice for you! It includes the general pass, access to the Plus Area, private bathrooms, 10 drinks, t-shirt, hat and headband. It’s the complete kit for the ultimate experience.
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
Before you go, we have a little surprise!
We joined forces with Neopop this year in order to give-away a day pass to our awesome readers. If you want to be the lucky winner of a ticket for the 8th of August line-up, you just have to follow two easy steps:
1- Follow @Neopop and @Oportoblog on Instagram
2- Like this post and comment who’s your favourite DJ on the August 8th line-up
The contest ends on July 22nd and the winner will be contacted via DM and announced on our Instagram page.
We hope this post helped you decide that Neopop is a great event to ensure that you have an unforgettable summer and party until the sun comes up. Don’t forget to follow OportoBlog and Neopop on Instagram to participate in our giveaway!
Neopop Facebook page and website
Feel free to share your excitement about Neopop in the comment section!
Photo courtesy of: Neopop
