Beyond Darklands

Reusable cups

As of 15 July 2023, Belgium has made reusable cups mandatory at all events,
taking a big step toward a better environment. At Beyond Darklands,
all drinks are served in reusable cups.

How it works

At Beyond Darklands, all drinks are served in reusable cups. The system is designed to be fair and environmentally friendly. By bringing back your own cups, you’ll always get your cup deposits back, ensuring no costs at all, while helping to reduce waste.

Alpha Deck Bar

A deposit of € 2 will be charged for each cup with each drink order.
If you bring your used cup when ordering another drink, you will not be charged for a new cup.
A € 2 deposit is required for each new cup if a used cup is not returned.

Making a paymeny with a Darkband.

You can return your cup(s) at any time during Beyond Darklands and the € 2 deposit will automatically be refunded to your Darkband. You can only return the same number of cups for which you paid a deposit.

Cup Deposit Boxes

You cannot collect random cups and redeem them for money unless there are deposits tied to your Darkband.

If you buy drinks for friends, the cups and their deposits will be registered on your Darkband. If your friend wandered away don’t worry. You can always take a cup from the deposit boxes at any time during Beyond Darklands to return any registered cup. The € 2 deposit will be automatically refunded to your Darkband.

FAQ

How does the cup deposit system work when ordering drinks?

When you order a drink, a € 2 deposit will be charged for each cup.

If you return your used cup when ordering your next drink, you will not be charged again.
If you do not return a cup, a new € 2 deposit will be added for the next one.

This system helps reduce waste and keep the venue clean. Don’t forget to bring your cup back with each order.

How do I return my cup and get my deposit back?

You can return your cup at any time during Beyond Darklands. The € 2 deposit will be automatically refunded to your Darkband.

Please note: You can only return the number of cups for which you actually paid a deposit. No extra refunds will be issued for unregistered or found cups.

Can I return someone else’s cup for a refund?

You can only return cups that were registered to your own Darkband. It’s not possible to collect random cups for deposit refunds unless those deposits were tied to your Darkband during purchase.

If you bought drinks for friends, the cup deposits are linked to your Darkband. If your friend wandered off with their cup, don’t worry. You can grab a cup from one of the deposit return boxes at any time and return it on their behalf. The € 2 deposit will be automatically refunded to your Darkband.

Can I pay for everything with my Darkband?

No. The cashless system is only used for food and drink purchases at Beyond Darklands. It cannot be used at the Gear Market, Merchandise Shop or for on-site Locker Rental.

Planning to shop? Bring your bank card or cash. There is no ATM available on-site.

Why does Beyond Darklands use an NFC system?

Using NFC technology with your Darkband comes with several benefits:

Fairer pricing

No more fixed-value tokens. We can now fine-tune prices for more accurate and fairer billing.

Efficiency

Faster transactions mean shorter queues and more time to enjoy the party.

Security

No need to carry cash or cards while partying.

Convenience

Easily check and manage your balance by scanning the QR code on your Darkband. Total control, right at your fingertips.

Why was the Darkband system introduced, and who powers it?

This system wasn’t built overnight. It took seven years of testing, refining and improving to create a smooth, reliable cashless experience tailored to the needs of the Beyond Darklands community.

Darkbands are powered by Tactile, our trusted partner. They provide the NFC-based payment system, ensuring fast, secure transactions for food and drinks. Tactile also handles access control and event insights, helping us improve Beyond Darklands and the Darkband experience year after year.

Can I take my Darkband off?

Your Darkband must stay securely on your wrist at all times during the festival. Once applied, it cannot be removed. If you tamper with it or take it off, it becomes invalid and you may be denied entry. Think of it as your personal key to Beyond Darklands. Once it is off, it no longer works.

Darkbands contain an NFC chip and are built for durability and comfort throughout the event.

Is there a removable Darkband option available?

Yes. If you plan to participate in fisting sessions or need extra flexibility, you can also purchase the new and improved removable Darkband in advance. It offers added comfort while maintaining full NFC functionality.

You can reserve your removable Darkland for € 5 via the ticket shop at darklands.com until 3 March 2026.

Present this ticket at the festival front desk to receive a removable Darkband (wristband) as an alternative to the regular version. You will not receive the regular Darkband. This is not an admission ticket! Your admission ticket(s) will be programmed on this Darkband.

Coming soon