About La Foresta
La Foresta is a Sri Lankan music event brand born in 2020 with a mission to unite people through underground electronic music. Founded by Nuwantha Lakmal Wijesinghe, the brand emphasizes nature, creativity, and love for music – true to its name “La Foresta” (Italian for “the forest”). La Foresta events are typically set in lush outdoor venues, reflecting the ethos of being “surrounded with nature and filled with music”. The team includes passionate local DJs and creatives (with resident DJs like Ishan, Koshea, Vegaz, and Alpha21) dedicated to curating exceptional experiences. From the start, La Foresta has “taken great pride in cultivating events that bring people and music together”, even amidst challenges.
Philosophy
La Foresta’s philosophy centers on community, resilience, and musical quality. As the organizers explained in an interview, their very first show proved they could “turn dreams to reality” – a dream of elevating Sri Lanka’s underground scene. Even during Sri Lanka’s 2022 economic crisis, La Foresta pushed forward, organizing events that surprisingly “had our strongest turnout” despite the turmoil. The team believes in the “power of music bringing people together” and is grateful for the supportive tribe of fans who make each gathering possible. This positive, can-do spirit and deep love for progressive and melodic techno/house music define what La Foresta is all about.
All Events By La Foresta
| Event Name | Date(s) | Location | Key Artists |
| We Are Lost Festival | 2nd August 2025 | Air Force Museum, Ratmalana, Sri Lanka | Guy JSahar ZNoiyse ProjectStereo UndergroundSubandrioTantum |
| Arment Miran – All Day Long | 24th May 2025 | Sense Pavilion, Horana, Sri Lanka | Armen Miran |
| Sudbeat Label Showcase | 17th April 2025 | Paradise Beach, Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka | Graziano RaffaHernan CattaneoJody BarrJohn CosaniKasey TaylorNick VaronNoiyse ProjectSimply CitySubandrio |
| Feel The Beat – Pool Party | 14th February 2025 | Dreams and Beats – Cinnamon Life | Noiyse Project |
| The Soundgarden Label Showcase | 13th December 2025 | Laya Leisure, Kukuleganga, Sri Lanka | Armen MiranDimuth KJayy VibesUltraMartin FredesNick WarrenNoiyse Project |
| DJ Ruby – Live in Romania | 26th October 2024 | Njoy Club and Garden, Bucharest, Romania | DJ Ruby |
| Arugambreez Festival | 6th August 2024 | The Hangout, Arugambay, Sri Lanka | Matan CaspiUltra |
| Outta Limits | 3rd August 2024 | Reef House Cafe, Dehiwala, Sri Lanka | Stan KolevMatan CaspiAaron SuissTeklix |
| Sudbeat Showcase | 11th April 2025 | Port City, Colombo, Sri Lanka | A-JayEcho DaftGraziano RaffaHernan CattaneoNoiyse ProjectSimply CitySubandrio |
| Days Like Dreams | 10th February 2024 | Villa Jungle & Wiener, Habaraduwa, Sri Lanka | Praveen AcharyInna Ra |
| Space Motion – Debut in Sri Lanka | 7th October 2023 | Calamander Beach Resort, Unawatuna, Sri Lanka | Space Motion |
| Outta Limits – Label Showcase | 5th August 2023 | Nico Beach Hotel, Hikkaduwa | Stan KolevMatan CaspiAaron SuissTeklix |
| Summar Days 2 | 9th September 2023 | Mains Castle, Dundee, Scotland | Guy MantzurAnthony PappaDJ Ruby |
| Spectrum | 25th March 2023 | Lavanga Beach Resort, Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka | DJ RubyKatrina Lil |
| Eli Nissan – Debut in Sri Lanka | 24th February 2023 | Happy Banana, Unawatuna | Eli Nissan |
| Roy Rosenfeld – Debut in Sri Lanka | 27th January 2023 | Happy Banana, Unawatuna | Roy Rosenfeld |
| Armen Miran – Debut in Sri Lanka | 18th November | Happy Banana, Unawatuna | Armen Miran |
| Aaron Suiss – Debut in Sri Lanka | 29th July 2022 | Happy Banana, Unawatuna | Aaron SuissInna Ra |
| Spectrum | 4th April 2022 | Happy Banana, Unawatuna | DJ Ruby |
Notable Events
La Foresta’s parties draw vibrant crowds of young music lovers, often in scenic beachside venues. Each event is an immersive experience blending nature and sound.
In just a few years, La Foresta has hosted an impressive series of events both in Sri Lanka and abroad. Below is an overview of all the major events La Foresta has organized, with dates, locations, and key artists:
January 2020 – Launch Event (Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka)
La Foresta kicked off with its debut show featuring Maltese prog-house veteran DJ Ruby. This was Ruby’s first-ever performance in Sri Lanka. Held at Mambo’s in Hikkaduwa, the inaugural party proved that even a brand-new event can draw a passionate crowd and “turn dreams to reality” for the organizers. It set the stage for La Foresta’s journey, establishing a reputation for high-quality underground vibes.
April 2022 – “Return to Paradise” ft. DJ Ruby (Unawatuna, SL)
After a pandemic pause, La Foresta returned in 2022 with DJ Ruby headlining again at Happy Banana, Unawatuna. Branded as “Spectrum – DJ Ruby Back to Paradise,” this beachside gig marked the revival of live underground events in a tough year. La Foresta partnered with the coastal venue to create an intimate open-air rave under the palm trees. The team had planned the event months in advance, and despite Sri Lanka’s brewing economic crisis, the turnout exceeded expectations – a testament to the loyal underground community eager to reunite on the dancefloor.
29 July 2022 – Aaron Suiss Debut (Unawatuna, SL)
La Foresta’s next move was to introduce Aaron Suiss – an Israeli melodic house artist – to the Sri Lankan audience for the first time. The event, “La Foresta Presents Aaron Suiss – Debut in Sri Lanka,” was held at Happy Banana, Unawatuna. Supported by DJ Inna Ra, it became La Foresta’s largest event up to that point. Overcoming fuel shortages and uncertainty, the July show had an incredible energy: the organizers noted it had their “strongest turnout so far” and demonstrated the unity and love in their tribe.
18 Nov 2022 – Armen Miran Debut (Unawatuna, SL)
For their third 2022 installment, La Foresta brought down Armen Miran, a globally renowned deep/organic house DJ, for his first Sri Lankan show. Held on November 18, 2022, at Happy Banana (the brand’s favorite southern beach venue), La Foresta Presents Armen Miran featured a “stellar local lineup” alongside the Armenian headliner. This event fulfilled the promise of an “epic headliner” teased earlier that year and further cemented La Foresta’s reputation. Partygoers danced from dusk till dawn as Miran delivered his signature deep, hypnotic set – truly a magical night for Sri Lanka’s underground scene.
27 Jan 2023 – Roy Rosenfeld Debut (Unawatuna, SL)
Kicking off 2023, La Foresta hosted Israeli melodic techno maestro Roy Rosenfeld for his Sri Lanka debut at Happy Banana on January 27, 2023. Rosenfeld, known for releases on labels like All Day I Dream, headlined a lineup that included support from DJs Enzo Vood, Ishan, Jayy Vibes, Koshea, Subandrio, and more. This event showed La Foresta’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge international talent to local shores. The beachside venue transformed into an oasis of dreamy tunes and dancing souls, giving Sri Lankans a taste of Rosenfeld’s globally acclaimed sound.
5 Aug 2023 – Outta Limits Label Showcase (Hikkaduwa, SL)
In August 2023, La Foresta achieved another first by hosting the Outta Limits label showcase in Sri Lanka. This special event took place in Hikkaduwa and was headlined by progressive house legends Stan Kolev and Matan Caspi (founders of the Outta Limits label), alongside returning guest Aaron Suiss and UK duo Teklix. A stacked roster of Sri Lanka’s finest supported them, including Ultra, A-Jay, Noiyse Project, Thilon Jay, Vegaz, Alpha21, and Ishan. Hundreds of fans gathered to experience a 12-hour musical journey by the beach. The Outta Limits showcase was hailed as a historic moment for Sri Lanka’s progressive scene – an international label event on local soil, pulled off with true La Foresta flair.
9 Sep 2023 – Summer Days in Scotland (Dundee, UK)
La Foresta went international, collaborating with Scottish promoters Music Is The Answer to bring Sri Lankan vibes to Mains Castle in Dundee. On September 9, 2023, La Foresta’s team (including DJ Ruby) joined Summer Days Part 2 at a 16th-century castle-turned-rave venue. The lineup featured global prog-house icons like Anthony Pappa, Steve Parry, and Guy Mantzur playing alongside local UK talent. Representing La Foresta, DJ Ruby took the stage once again, showcasing Sri Lanka’s burgeoning scene to an international crowd. This cross-border event highlighted La Foresta’s growing network and ambition – taking the party from tropical beaches to medieval Scottish castles without missing a beat.
26 Oct 2024 – RaveLand x La Foresta in Romania (Bucharest)
Continuing its global forays, La Foresta teamed up with Romanian outfit RaveLand to present DJ Ruby’s debut in Romania. The event on 26th October 2024 at nJOY Garden & Club in Bucharest drew European prog-house enthusiasts for a night of deep, driving beats. Billed as “La Foresta vs RaveLand,” the party saw DJ Ruby deliver a marathon 3.5-hour set. This collaboration not only marked La Foresta’s first event in Eastern Europe but also put a Sri Lankan brand on the map of the international underground circuit. It was a proud moment for the team to see their concept thrive beyond home borders.
13 Dec 2024 – The Soundgarden Showcase (Kukuleganga, SL)
In a landmark December 2024 event, La Foresta brought the globally renowned Soundgarden label showcase to Sri Lanka for the first time. Progressive house legend Nick Warren – the man behind The Soundgarden label – headlined the open-air festival at Kukuleganga Laya Leisure resort. He was joined by deep melodic maestro Armen Miran and Argentina’s Martin Fredes, along with “the island’s finest spinners” on support duties. This day-into-night gathering in the forested hills of Kukuleganga was an ethereal experience: attendees swayed to hypnotic tunes as jungle mist rolled in. Nick Warren’s return to Sri Lanka after 6 years was highly anticipated, and the event sold out all ticket phases in advance. La Foresta once again “raised the bar”, proving Sri Lanka can host label showcases on par with global dance capitals.
July 2025 – Sudbeat Label Showcase (Colombo, SL)
By 2025, La Foresta had achieved what once seemed impossible – hosting a showcase for Sudbeat, the famed label of Argentine icon Hernán Cattáneo. In mid-2025, the Sudbeat Label Showcase lit up Colombo with a world-class lineup: progressive maestro Hernán Cattáneo headlined, supported by an all-star cast from the Sudbeat family – including Graziano Raffa, Noiyse Project, Simply City, and local hero Subandrio. The event was held at an outdoor venue in Colombo (even seeing use of the new Port City waterfront), drawing fans from across the island. La Foresta took “immense pride in hosting the Sudbeat showcase” with the legendary Hernán himself – a true milestone for the Sri Lankan scene. This was Sudbeat’s first-ever showcase in Asia, and the atmosphere was nothing short of magical as Hernán delivered a blissful extended set under the stars. (Notably, this was Hernán Cattáneo’s first time in Sri Lanka, making it a historic night for longtime fans.)
2 Aug 2025 – We Are Lost Festival (Colombo, SL):
Capping off their stellar run of events, La Foresta in August 2025 hosted the Sri Lankan edition of the international We Are Lost festival – another first for the country. Held at the Sri Lanka Air Force Museum grounds in Ratmalana on 2nd August 2025, the festival featured a “world-class lineup” curated by progressive house star Guy J. Headliners Guy J and Sahar Z (from Israel) were joined by rising talents like Noiyse Project and Stereo Underground, plus top local DJs. The festival vibe was euphoric: a larger-than-life stage, mesmerizing light shows, and jets occasionally roaring in the distance, as the Lost & Found-styled melodies kept the crowd entranced. By uniting with Guy J’s brand, La Foresta demonstrated its ability to produce full-scale festivals that put Sri Lanka on the global map for underground music. It was truly a “fing cool”* festival moment for the island’s youth scene.
Each of these events – whether on home turf or overseas – has contributed to La Foresta’s growing legacy. From humble beginnings, the brand now regularly partners with international labels and festival franchises, all while maintaining its intimate, nature-infused Sri Lankan identity.
Key Artists and Recurring Acts
Progressive house icons like Hernán Cattáneo have headlined La Foresta’s stages, delivering epic sets that elevate Sri Lanka’s underground scene.
A number of standout artists have become closely associated with La Foresta’s journey, either as repeat guests or as especially high-profile bookings that generated buzz:
DJ Ruby
A Maltese progressive house DJ, Ruby was the headliner of La Foresta’s very first event in 2020 and has been a cornerstone of their story. He returned for the “Back to Paradise” show in 2022 and later represented La Foresta abroad (headlining their Romania event in 2024 and joining the team in Scotland). DJ Ruby’s energetic sets and loyalty to Sri Lanka’s crowd earned him a special place in local hearts – La Foresta even calls him a “friend” of the brand. His involvement gave the fledgling outfit credibility and set a high standard from day one.
Noiyse Project
Hailing from Sri Lanka, Noiyse Project is a rising star of progressive house who frequently features in La Foresta lineups. Appearing in events like the Outta Limits showcase (as a “local talent” alongside international headliners) and the We Are Lost festival, Noiyse Project has grown with the La Foresta platform. His atmospheric, melodic style resonates with the brand’s ethos. Today, he’s gaining recognition beyond Sri Lanka, showing how La Foresta nurtures homegrown talent by placing local DJs on stage with global acts.
Hernán Cattáneo
A living legend in progressive music, Hernán’s appearance at the Sudbeat Showcase in 2025 was a major triumph for La Foresta. Known as “El Maestro,” Hernán delivered a masterclass set that left an indelible mark on the Sri Lankan crowd. Bringing him down for a label showcase (and even hinting at a b2b with Nick Warren during planning) underscored La Foresta’s clout. Hernán Cattáneo’s return to Sri Lanka after years signified that the island is now firmly on the map for top-tier artists.
Nick Warren
The British pioneer’s involvement with La Foresta came via The Soundgarden showcase in 2024. Nick Warren’s legendary status and his label’s global following meant his show was one of the most significant underground events in Sri Lanka’s recent history. Fans had waited six years to see him back in Colombo, and La Foresta made it happen in spectacular fashion. Nick’s support and positive feedback (he even shared an aftermovie thanking the crew) validated La Foresta’s efforts on an international level.
Guy J
As the curator of We Are Lost, Israeli DJ/producer Guy J brought his festival to Sri Lanka in partnership with La Foresta. Guy J is a hero in the melodic progressive scene, and his involvement in 2025 gave Sri Lanka’s underground community perhaps its biggest event to date. Not only did he perform a headlining set, but his Lost & Found brand’s presence signaled that Colombo can host the same caliber of festivals as Europe. This was a huge leap for the scene, and La Foresta’s role was central in making it possible.
Armen Miran
Known for his deep, organic sounds, Armen Miran’s debut in Sri Lanka (Nov 2022) stands out as a highlight. His inclusion showed La Foresta’s commitment to diverse underground sub-genres (from driving prog to dreamy downtempo). Armen Miran’s set enchanted the crowd and demonstrated that Sri Lanka’s youth have a taste for the sophisticated, soulful side of electronic music too. It also paved the way for more artists in that vein to consider touring the island.
Other notable mentions include Stan Kolev & Matan Caspi (who headlined the Outta Limits showcase), Roy Rosenfeld (debuted in 2023), Sahar Z (part of We Are Lost), Anthony Pappa and Guy Mantzur (at the Scotland event), and local stalwarts like Subandrio, Ultra, Thilon Jay and more who have all contributed to the La Foresta experience. Each artist, big or small, has left their mark on the dancefloor and helped elevate the vibe that La Foresta is now famous for.
Impact on Sri Lanka’s Music Scene
La Foresta’s rapid rise has had a significant impact on Sri Lanka’s electronic/underground music culture:
Bridging Local and Global
Perhaps most importantly, La Foresta has acted as a bridge between Sri Lanka and the global underground. They have introduced international artists who were previously unseen in the local scene – from DJ Ruby to Hernán Cattáneo – giving Sri Lankan audiences direct access to world-class acts. Many of these were “firsts”: the first Sri Lankan shows for multiple globally renowned DJs. This exposure has broadened the horizons of local fans and DJs alike, inspiring a new generation of artists. It’s not an exaggeration to say that Sri Lanka’s progressive house and techno community now feels connected to the worldwide movement, thanks in large part to La Foresta’s efforts.
Elevating Event Standards
By organizing showcases for major labels (Soundgarden, Sudbeat) and even international festival brands (We Are Lost), La Foresta has dramatically raised the bar for what’s possible in the Sri Lankan scene. They bring professional production, high-quality sound and lighting, and creative stage designs to each event. The success of these events proved that Sri Lanka can host large-scale, world-class music experiences – something that seemed out of reach just a few years ago. Other promoters and venues are now following suit, which overall lifts the standard of festival and club events in the country.
Cultivating Local Talent
La Foresta consistently mixes Sri Lankan DJs into their lineups, often giving them prime slots alongside visiting headliners. This inclusion boosts local talent’s visibility and experience. DJs like Noiyse Project, Subandrio, A-Jay, and others have benefitted by performing at La Foresta shows and even having their sets or productions highlighted (the crew has even launched La Foresta Recordings, a label that has put out EPs by local artists like VegazSL. By fostering these artists and exposing them to bigger audiences, La Foresta helps grow a sustainable local scene that isn’t solely reliant on foreign acts.
Community and “Tribe” Building
The brand has cultivated a loyal following or “tribe” of underground music lovers. This community-centric approach (e.g. engaging with fans on social media, creating a friendly atmosphere at events) has strengthened the scene’s foundation. Young people who attend a La Foresta party often leave with a sense of being part of something special – a movement, a family. In a country where mainstream entertainment often overshadows underground music, La Foresta has carved out a vibrant subculture where likeminded youth can connect. Their events are safe spaces to dance, be free, and enjoy cutting-edge music, which is invaluable for cultural growth.
Putting Sri Lanka on the Map
Through its international collaborations, La Foresta has put Sri Lanka in the conversation for festival tourism and artist tours. The fact that global DJs and labels are now talking about playing in Sri Lanka – and even major travel sites are featuring La Foresta’s events as must-do experiences – is a huge shift. This not only boosts Sri Lanka’s credibility as a tour stop in South Asia but also encourages cultural exchange. Regional promoters from countries like India, Nepal, etc., are taking note of Sri Lanka’s burgeoning scene. In the long run, this could position the island as a hub for underground music in the region.
In summary, La Foresta has played a pivotal role in shaping Sri Lanka’s underground music renaissance. In just a short span, they’ve gone from a local party series to an influential brand with international reach. Their blend of passion, professionalism, and adventurous programming continues to push boundaries. As they often say, “We create the creativity with love, nature & music” – and by doing so, La Foresta is not only throwing epic parties but also nurturing a cultural movement.
Follow La Foresta
Keep up with La Foresta and be the first to know about their next crazy festival or intimate jungle rave. Follow their journey on social media:
Facebook: La Foresta official page (for event announcements, photos and community updates)
https://web.facebook.com/laforesta.events
Instagram: daily hype, lineup drops, and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
https://www.instagram.com/laforesta_ofc
YouTube: La Foresta channel (live set recordings, aftermovies, and teasers)
https://www.youtube.com/@laforesta4738
Mixcloud & SoundCloud: La Foresta – listen to recorded DJ sets and the “Sounds of La Foresta” mix series
Twitter: @La_Foresta_ for news and shoutouts
La Foresta’s linktree (@la_foresta_official) provides all their official links in one place. Join the tribe online, and keep an eye out for their next event – whether it’s on a Sri Lankan beach or a stage half-way across the world, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the music and see you in the forest!