Sunburn, Asia's largest electronic dance music (EDM) festival, marked a new chapter in its nearly two-decade history by relocating from its long-time home in Goa to Mumbai for its 2025 edition. The three-day event, held from December 19-21, 2025, at Infinity Bay, Sewri, brought a mix of international and Indian artists to the city. This move signified not only a change in venue but also a reimagining of the festival experience, blending the energy of Mumbai with Sunburn's signature EDM vibe.
A Shift in Scenery
Since its inception in 2007, Sunburn has been synonymous with Goa's beaches. However, growing local opposition and logistical challenges in recent years prompted organizers to seek a new location. Mumbai, with its vibrant nightlife, developed infrastructure, and status as India's entertainment capital, emerged as the ideal choice. According to a fan survey, a significant number of attendees were eager to explore the festival outside Goa, with a clear preference for Mumbai. This relocation marks the first time the flagship festival has been held outside of Goa.
Mumbai's Debut: A Landmark Event
The Mumbai edition of Sunburn 2025 was themed "Ascend: Beyond the Real," promising an immersive experience with upgraded production, stage design, and infrastructure. The festival featured world-class stages, global DJs, and a variety of attractions beyond the music. Confirmed headliners included David Guetta, Axwell, Above & Beyond, and Sara Landry.
Flea Markets and More: Beyond the Music
Sunburn Mumbai 2025 offered a holistic festival experience that went beyond the music. Attendees could explore arcade zones, curated food districts, and chill-out spaces. A flea market featured indie fashion stalls, accessories, skincare products, and face paint and glitter stalls, adding to the festival's vibrant atmosphere. Food trucks served Mumbai street favorites, while curated food and beverage stalls offered a variety of culinary options. Other attractions included a women-only bar and various activities such as a Ferris wheel, bungee jumping, and zip-lining.
The Venue and the Vibe
Infinity Bay, Sewri, provided a unique backdrop for Sunburn's Mumbai debut. The expansive site was designed to accommodate multiple stages, brand zones, and chill lounges. Despite some challenges with dust and sound overlap between stages, the venue generally received positive feedback for its organization and accessibility. The festival was well-connected via local trains and highways, making it easier for attendees to travel from different parts of Mumbai. Special teams were also deployed by the Mumbai Police for crowd monitoring and women's safety.
Looking Ahead
Sunburn's move to Mumbai signifies a significant step in its evolution, reflecting its ambition to grow beyond a destination-dependent festival. While the shift has sparked mixed reactions from long-time attendees, it also presents new opportunities for experimentation, technological upgrades, and collaborations. As Mumbai solidifies its position as a hub for live music and entertainment, Sunburn's presence is expected to enhance the city's cultural landscape and attract a wider audience to the EDM scene.
