24:1900 - The World’s 24-Hour Virtual Music Festival Returns As An Act Of Resistance
24:1900, the innovative online music festival spanning the globe, returns over the weekend of 6-7 December 2025. Showcasing independent artists from all 24 time zones, the festival features 24 artists performing at 19:00 local time in their respective regions - unifying the world in a truly global celebration of music.
This year’s edition focuses on the democratic need to resist, culturally and politically.
“Bringing together acts from around the world at a time of great polarisation is a political act in itself—especially given our platform for both Palestinian and Taiwanese artists,” says co-founder Mark of 122 Music Management, the British company that created and runs 24:1900.
“Just finding a Palestinian artist was a challenge. Before alkalsaat, we had booked a different artist from the wider diaspora. However, this artist had to withdraw over fears that association with us could cause issues at Israeli checkpoints. They feared that visits home to their families could be jeopardised, underscoring the harsh realities Palestinians face.
The festival also highlights other battles facing musicians. Following news that the former Spotify CEO invested in an AI military defence company, a growing number of mainstream artists are removing their music from the platform in protest.
Independent artists, meanwhile, continue to face longstanding issues: unfair compensation from streaming services, the risk of having their music removed with no recourse, and the ongoing crisis in live music with venue closures and exploitative promoters. There is also the rising threat from AI, as artists grapple with unauthorised use of their music and voices.
24:1900 gives independent artists a platform to resist and challenge industry norms. And to reclaim their creative direction and reach listeners who may never have encountered their work before. As part of the festival’s commitment to supporting artistic independence, additional artists are also being offered complimentary advertising opportunities.
What's more, 24:1900 is more accessible and more environmentally sustainable. It is a festival for all to celebrate.
“If you want to support quality independent music and help artists push back, 24:1900 is a great place to start," adds Mark. “Because the fight is global.”
