We say the same thing every year, but this year, the season really does seem to have started early. Club announcements for 2017 have been coming thick and fast since January, and summer is already shaping up to be one of Ibiza’s most exciting and innovative yet. Here’s a rundown of what we know so far…
We all shed many a tear when Space closed its doors in October 2016 (What. A. Party.), but life goes on, and it’s been revealed that the club’s new name will be Hï Ibiza. When the former club’s lease ended, the famed Ushuaïa Group took over, and they’ve promised us underground sounds and the same level of spectacular production we’ve come to expect from Ushuaïa, the sister venue across the road. Think otherworldly lasers, dazzling light shows, and fire cannons that’ll put hairs on your chest. Or burn them off, depending how close you get to the stage.
Speaking of Space, one of its biggest stars and one of techno’s most-loved characters, Carl Cox, has revealed his new Ibiza home, and it’s at none other than the mighty Privilege in San Rafael. Officially the world’s biggest club, the main room will play host to Coxy and his bountiful charisma at a night that’s been dubbed Pure Carl Cox. Sounds good to us. Catch the big man on Tuesday 11 and Tuesday 18 July, with more dates to be announced soon. Expect this to be the hottest ticket in town.
In other Privilege news, word on the street is that Space may rise like a phoenix from the flames to take over at Privilege entirely, with Pepe Roselló showing interest in launching a new concept at the site. At this stage, this is just rumour, so keep your eyes peeled for more on that as we get it. Another Chinese whisper we’ve heard is that the newly-owned Pacha will be back with the same sizzling line-up as last year, but again, that’s not yet been confirmed.
Elsewhere, Amnesia has got off to a flying start to 2017, announcing it had snagged the services of Barcelona-based party, elrow, every Saturday for the duration of summer. Last year, elrow was one of the season’s standout success stories, selling out at Space each and every week, but we’re psyched to see the confetti crazy cats unleash its inimitable brand of madness on the terrace this year. Trust us, this will be one helluva party. Everyone’s favourite techno titan, Sven Väth will also be back with Cocoon, every Monday, and UK trance originator, Cream, will resume its Thursday slot.
Over in San Antonio, everyone’s favourite pool party venue, Ocean Beach, has released a jam-packed summer schedule of champagne-spraying events to satiate the glamour pusses among you. And Defected In The House is back on the island after a one-year hiatus, this time at Eden, where it’ll make its home for the season. We predict this will be an extremely wise move for both club and party. Mark our words.