Pinkpop braves heat on first day with performances by Zara Larsson, Roxy Dekker, and Twenty One Pilots

Pinkpop festival kicked off its 55th edition under sweltering conditions, with temperatures soaring to 36 degrees Celsius on Friday, making it the hottest June 19th on record in the Netherlands.

The intense heat was a constant topic for performers. While opener Natasha Beddingfield initially called it "the sunniest day ever," the reality for many, including the band The Beaches, was "It’s fucking hot." Festival-goers sought refuge in every available patch of shade, and the organization's efforts to create more shaded areas proved insufficient against the relentless sun. Long queues formed at water points as attendees refilled bottles and special Pinkpop hydration bags.

The oppressive heat seemed to temper the crowd's energy in the early hours. Natasha Beddingfield delivered a sympathetic but unurgent set, and The Vaccines relied heavily on older material. However, newer acts like Roxy Dekker injected contemporary pop energy, with confetti and dancers accompanying her performance of hits like 'Satisfyer.' Her lighthearted pop, infused with humor, resonated with the largely young audience, who readily accepted her call to jump despite the heat.

Later, the Canadian band The Beaches brought energetic power-pop to a packed tent, where the heat and sweat were palpable. Swedish singer Zara Larsson delivered a vibrant show, transforming the North Stage into a glittering spectacle. Leveraging her recent success amplified by TikTok, Larsson showcased a performance filled with bright costumes, sharp choreography, and energetic dance routines, captivating the audience.