Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is a city full of energy and culture. It comes alive even more during the summer months. There are many events to enjoy, from music festivals to art exhibitions. Whether you are a local or a visitor, you will find something to do. Here is a guide to some of the best events in Belgrade this summer.
EXIT Festival
EXIT Festival is held in Novi Sad, which is only an hour away from Belgrade. It takes place from July 10th to 14th, at the Petrovaradin Fortress. EXIT is one of the biggest music festivals in Europe. It features a variety of music genres, including rock, pop, electronic, and hip-hop. Many famous artists perform here every year. This year’s line up is particularly exciting. Black Eeys Peas, Burak Yeter, Carl Cox, and Altın Gün are set to perform, promising unforgettable experiences. Furthermore, the fans of Eurovision will be delighted, as Baby Lasagna and Teya Dora will be performing their hit songs live. You can buy tickets online or at the venue.
Tips for visiting EXIT Festival:
- Book your tickets and accommodation early as they sell out fast.
- Check the festival’s schedule and plan which performances you want to see.
- Stay hydrated and take breaks to avoid exhaustion.
Events in Belgrade with tradition – Belgrade Summer Festival (BELEF)
BELEF is a cultural event that takes place in various locations around the city. It generally runs from late June to mid-July. This year in particular it will take place from 20.6 to 07.07. The festival features theater performances, dance shows, and concerts. It also includes art exhibitions and film screenings. Many events are free to attend. BELEF aims to promote local artists and culture.
Tips for visiting BELEF:
- Note that many events will be on Serbian language only.
- Arrive early to get a good seat, especially for free events.
- Explore different venues to experience the diversity of the festival.
Bitef Theatre Festival – one of the best events in Belgrade
Bitef Theatre Festival is held in September, but it starts with preparations in the summer. It is one of the most important theater festivals in Southeast Europe. The festival features innovative and experimental theater productions from around the world. Performances take place in various theaters and cultural centers in Belgrade. The organizers have not announced this year’s dates yet, so stay tuned and follow us for all the news.
Tips for visiting Bitef Theatre Festival:
- Book your tickets in advance as popular shows sell out quickly.
- Read about the performances to choose the ones that interest you the most.
- Be open to new and unconventional theater experiences.
Gitarijada Rock Festival
Gitarijada is a rock music festival that takes place in August (29-31). It is held in the town of Zaječar, which is a few hours away from Belgrade. However, many people from Belgrade and other cities travel to Zaječar for this event. The festival features rock bands from Serbia and other countries. It is one of the oldest rock festivals in the region. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.
Tips for visiting Gitarijada Rock Festival:
- Plan your trip to Zaječar in detail and book accommodation early.
- Buy bus tickets on time – while there are many regular lines, they can sell fast.
- Bring a tent if you prefer camping as there is a camping area near the festival.
- Enjoy the local food and drinks available at the festival.
- Explore the wonders of East Serbia, such as Felix Romuliana
Dragi Bravo Festival
The Dragi Bravo Festival is a prominent event in Belgrade, celebrated as the largest nostalgic festival in the region. It features a diverse array of musical performances that evoke memories of the past. In other words, a real time-machine. The iconic Belgrade Fortress is a home of this year’s festival, providing a scenic backdrop, coupled with overlooking the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. This year’s event is will take place from July 4th to 6th, starting at 21:00, and everyone is welcome, regardless of age.
Tips for visiting Dragi Bravo Festival:
- Familiarize yourself with Serbian and ex-YU music of that time. It will be interesting, we promise!
- Arrive early.
- Dress comfortably and retro, for example, in 2000s style.
- Plan your transport.
- Above all, have fun!
And more events in Belgrade:
Barcelona Gipsy Balkan Orchestra
Barcelona Gipsy Balkan Orchestra (BGKO) is a vibrant and eclectic musical ensemble based in Barcelona, Spain. Renowned for their energetic performances and unique sound, the group fuses traditional Balkan, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean music with a contemporary twist. Formed in 2012, BGKO has captivated audiences worldwide with their dynamic interpretations of not only folk melodies, but also the rich cultural heritage of the Roma, Ashkenazi, and Sephardic traditions. Their music features powerful vocals, intricate rhythms, and a blend of acoustic instruments, including the accordion, clarinet, violin, and double bass. BGKO’s innovative approach and passionate performances have earned them a dedicated following and critical acclaim on the international music scene. We are pleased to announce that the Barcelona Gipsy Balkan Orchestra (BGKO) will be performing live in Belgrade on August 14! Join us for an unforgettable evening of music.
Deep Purple
Deep Purple, the legendary rock band renowned for their powerful riffs and pioneering contributions to the genre, is set to electrify audiences in Belgrade with an upcoming concert at Tašmajdan Stadium on July 13th. With a career spanning over five decades, the band is famous for classic hits like “Smoke on the Water” and “Highway Star,” which have become anthems for rock enthusiasts worldwide. This highly anticipated performance promises to deliver a spectacular showcase of their enduring legacy, blending iconic tracks with new material. Fans in Belgrade are eagerly awaiting what is sure to be a memorable night of music and nostalgia at one of the city’s most iconic venues.
Belgrade is a truly vibrant city with many events to enjoy during the summer. Whether you are into music, theater, dance, or art, you will find something that interests you. Enjoy your time in Belgrade and make the most of the summer events! The blend of historical charm and contemporary energy ensures that Belgrade will be buzzing with excitement, creating unforgettable memories. So, whether you’re a music aficionado, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for summer fun, Belgrade is the place to be this season. With so many events in Belgrade, you will certainly come back home with some special impressions and look forward to your next visit.
