Worrisome speculations from Novi Sad: there is a possibility that EXIT Festival will relocate from the iconic Petrovaradin Fortress. The next edition of the electronic music event might happen outside of Serbian borders.
Rumours about relocating EXIT aren’t new. However, this year’s cancellation, the resulting financial issues, a lack of government support, the advice to lay off company staff, and now the withdrawal of the main sponsor just seven days before EXIT’s Life Stream project, mean that the situation has become really serious.
The festival organisation issued a statement on Facebook. They write that they will fight to stay and further develop in Novi Sad, but that this time, unfortunately, “that’s not only up to us.”
Possible hosts
In the statement’s last paragraph, the organisers write that “at no cost will they allow the shutdown of the festival after two decades, but if it remains without necessary support, they are open for all options.” In that case, according to local media, the strongest candidate to become the next home of EXIT is Budva, Montenegro. Sea Dance Festival takes place there as well, which is part of EXIT family. Another option would be Umag, Istria, the host of Sea Star Festival, which is also under EXIT’s patronage.
Also, the word is that EXIT got a very generous offer from a wealthy Arabic country. The intention there is to make it the biggest festival in the world and to increase the amount of visitors to more than half million people. However, keeping it regional is probably a more realistic alternative.
Which country will host EXIT Festival’s 20th anniversary, we will find out by the end of the year.
EXIT Festival 2021
EXIT is the most significant music festival in the Balkans and one of the most recognisable cultural brands of Serbia. During previous years, many huge bands and artists have performed at the Petrovaradin Fortress. The event also has a great impact on the country’s economy and tourism. For 2021, the first artists have already been announced. Paul Kalkbrenner, Nina Kraviz, David Guetta and more are scheduled to perform.
- Location: Novi Sad, Serbia.
- Date: 8-11 July 2021.
- Tickets: on sale for €121.
- For more information, check the official website.
