There’s no party like a Balkan party, and Serbia is at the heart of it all. If you are looking for an unforgettable festival experience, affordable and yet priceless, Serbia ought to be at the top of your list. It is no secret that Serbia is quickly becoming one of Europe’s hottest destinations for music lovers. From pulsating electronic beats to traditional folk sounds and world-class jazz, this country boasts a festival scene that perfectly reflects its incredibly rich cultural heritage.
Hop on now, join us on a short tour of the 5 best music festivals in Serbia and discover what makes them so unique!
1. Exit Festival
Exit Festival is easily the most popular festival in the Balkans. What’s more, it has been awarded multiple times as one of the best festivals in the whole of Europe. What is so special about this very long summer party, you may ask?
Firstly, Exit takes place at the enchanting Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad – the second largest city in Serbia. The Fortress itself was built in the 17th century on a historic hilltop overlooking the river Danube, which makes for quite a charming festival spot. What adds a special spice to it is the fact that it started in the year 2000 as a student movement and has been evolving ever since into one of Europe’s premier music events.
Today, Exit guarantees the ultimate festival experience: grand fireworks opening, 40 mind-blowing stages over 4 days, vibrant parties and afterparties, and plenty of space for relaxing and savouring the view. If you were wondering about the kinds of music you can expect here – there is something for everyone!
The world’s most popular performers of pop, rap, rock, electronic, and alternative music are set against a stunning historical backdrop creating a contagious atmosphere that keeps the party going from day into night.
2. Guča Trumpet Festival
Here is something extraordinarily Serbian. Every August, the heartbeat of traditional Serbian trumpets echoes through the mountains surrounding the small town of Guča. For every fan of folk music, the Guča Trumpet Festival is an unavoidable celebration and a great opportunity to enjoy the magic of brass bands and traditional sound.
Guča will sweep you off your feet with the rhythms of traditional trumpet melodies you have never heard before. Don’t hesitate to join in the street parades, have a plate of delicious cabbage stew and pork in the local kafanas and hum along with the spontaneous jam sessions. Guča in August turns into a special place with an emphasis on a great sense of community that makes you feel like you are part of a centuries-old tradition.
3. Belgrade Beer Fest
Warm weather, cold beer, and the Belgrade music scene – this is what Beer Fest is all about. This beloved festival brings everyone together at the heart of the capital city of Serbia. It is just the right place for everyone who enjoys a good pint and doesn’t mind having top domestic musicians performing all around.
Belgrade Beer Fest is a must-visit for all craft beer lovers as well, as this kind of brew has been gaining more and more popularity in the past years. It is the perfect place to enjoy live music while sampling some of the best local beers.
Nevertheless, even if you are not a particular beer connoisseur, it’s important to note that Beer Fest takes place at a beautiful Belgrade riverside and provides great fun to all amusement park lovers. And a wide variety of bands across different genres brings about a festive atmosphere brimming with chatter and merriment.
4. Nišville Jazz Festival
In the summer, Serbia becomes all smooth and groovy in the South and it is all thanks to the Jazz Festival in the city of Niš. Jazz aficionados will appreciate Nišville elegance and its intimate atmosphere any day.
Niš is one of the ancient Balkan cities and as such contributes to the evergreen and soulful energy of its jazz festival. International jazz stars are eager to participate every year and present the crowd with fairytale-like performances in atmospheric venues. Apart from musical bliss, this is a great time to enjoy local cuisine, famous southern barbeque and a mesmerising historical setting.
5. Love Fest in Vrnjačka Banja
Love Fest simply lives up to its enchanting name. From its picturesque outdoor setting to its five stages and fantastic fireworks, it is a great celebration of friendship, love and above all, music. Namely, Love Fest is held in the summertime in the dreamy spa town of Vrnjačka Banja, at the foot of the Goč mountain.
What can you expect?
Well, apart from genres galore, fresh air, swimming pools and great food, Love Fest is all about the spirit of inclusiveness. It brings together a diverse lineup of international and local artists, spanning indie and rock, electronic and alternative sounds that reverberate through all of central Serbia.
Tips for enjoying music festivals in Serbia
Whether you are a regular festival visitor or you are planning to embark on this enriching adventure for the first time, there are always a few things to be on the lookout for. To make sure there are no hiccups on your journey, make sure you have done all the necessary planning – the more you prepare yourself for the trip, the more you will get out of the festivities.
It is important to keep in mind that festival dates may vary. Summer festivals can be delayed due to storms, floods, or other unpredictable events, so checking the official websites for any updates and ticket information is essential for your smooth arrival.
Once you get there, be mindful of your surroundings. Festivals can get rather crowded, setting an ideal stage for pickpockets and other petty criminals. Avoid carrying backpacks and keep your ID, phone, and cash in a zipper pouch or a small bag that will always be in your sight.
Finally, use the opportunity to socialise and get a real insight into the local culture. Keep your eyes and mind open to all that is happening around you. Feel free to taste traditional dishes and take part in the interactive workshops at the festivals. Furthermore, local craft and flea markets will probably be around each corner, adding an extra layer of the overall cultural experience.
The music festival scene in Serbia is as diverse, creative and traditional as you would expect from a true Balkan country. Whether you are dancing under the historic walls of Petrovaradin, swaying to the soulful sounds of Nišville, or enjoying a chilled beer in Belgrade, you are granted to have a whale of a time.
Each year the festivals provide a unique mix of tradition and modernity enveloped in versatile music, all set in breathtaking locations. If this sounds convincing enough to you, wait no more – grab your dancing shoes and pick a festival after your own heart!
