Sziget Festival
The most-awaited artists of this summer’s festival season in Hungary
Every year is a long wait until the festival season kicks in summer, and we will have a host of popular bands and singers coming to Hungary this year again. Funzine collected the gigs that make it worth to go to festival all over the country in the summer months. Dua Lipa, Shawn Mendes, Lana del Rey – they are just some of the artists we cannot wait to see.
Hurts / Volt Festival / 27 June
The Hurts is a regular in Hungary. The brit duo from Manchester will return again at the end of June to Volt Festival in Sopron, the beautiful city in Western Hungary.
Thirty Seconds to Mars / Strand Festival / 23 August
The most famous act in the line up of Strand Festival in Zamárdi at Lake Balaton is Thirty Seconds To Mars. Jared Leto fans can catch him there at the end of August.
Dua Lipa / Sziget / 12 August
The girl who ruled charts this year will surely rule Sziget Festival in August.
Rita Ora / Balaton Sound / 6 July
Rita Ora almost came to Sziget last year, but now it is for sure: she is playing at Balaton Sound, one of Europe’s biggest electronic music festivals at the beginning of July.
Depeche Mode / VOLT / 26 June
The iconic English band must love their Hungarian fans, because this is the second time they are playing here this year – so if you missed the concert at Budapest in the winter, be sure to be there in Sopron.
Shawn Mendes / Sziget / 13 August
The incredibly successful and incredibly young singer comes to Sziget in August to make some fans faint with his boyish charm.
Lana del Rey / Sziget / 10 August
The enigmatic queen of hipster pop is finally coming to Sziget. Undoubtedly one of the biggest headliners on the main stage, she is sure to give a memorable performance.
Featured image: www.facebook.com/StrandFestivalOfficial
The complete Sziget 2018 line-up is out! – Check out HERE!
Sziget is proud to announce its final wave of acts, completing another incredible line-up for this year’s festival, today announcing the British multi-instrumentalist and electronic artist Bonobo, EDM producer and DJ, Flux Pavilion and Dutch duo, Yellow Claw. With the full line-up now fully announced, they join a monumental group of artists all heading to Óbudai-sziget including Kendrick Lamar, Arctic Monkeys, Gorillaz, Lana Del Rey, Mumford & Sons and Dua Lipa among over 100 others. Bringing together 450,000 people and tipped as the continents Glastonbury equivalent, the ‘Line-Up of the Year 2017’ winners are back 8-15 August for an unforgettable festival for any music lover.
Date: 8th-15th August 2018
Venue: Óbudai-sziget, Budapest, Hungary
Sziget is proud to announce its final additions to the lineup for 2018. Internationally acclaimed artist and multi-talented musician, Bonobo will perform a very special live set on the sun-soaked island of Óbudai-sziget.
Since releasing Black Sands in 2009, the British musician gained acclaim for his use of sample-based production and multi-layered atmospheres. His unique style and stunning single Kerala earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Dance Recording and Best Electronic/ Dance Album. The musician’s style is not only tinged with electronic undertones but also incorporates elements of world music and organic instrumentalization, making him a perfect announcement for this inclusive gathering of ‘Szitizens’ from around the world.
Joining him is EDM producer, DJ, singer-songwriter and label owner, Flux Pavilion. After being nominated for BBC Sound of 2012, the multi-talented artist has toured the world and released multiple hit singles such as the massive ‘I Can’t Stop’. Alongside him is Dutch duo Yellow Claw, hailing from Amsterdam, they often incorporate elements of all genres such as hip-hop, dubstep and big room house when performing, and are currently signed to Diplo’s label Mad Decent. Also announced are Oscar and the Wolf, Rhye, Michael Calfan and What So Not.
Taking place on Budapest’s Óbudai-sziget, Sziget is one of the world’s largest music and arts festivals, transforming into the ‘Island of Freedom’ every year in August. Welcoming over 450,000 ‘Szitizens’ from around the world and all walks of life.
Revellers are sure to enjoy performances from some of the world’s biggest artists and best new talent, including hip-hop superstar Kendrick Lamar, and acclaimed DJ extraordinaire Kygo. There’s also the mindblowing virtual band, Gorillaz, pop’s newest darling and 2018 Brit Award winner, Dua Lipa, songstress Lana Del Rey and the folk-rock legends Mumford & Sons who are playing a European festival exclusive.
[button link=”https://dailynewshungary.com/the-great-hungarian-festival-overview/” type=”big” color=”purple” newwindow=”yes”] THE GREAT HUNGARIAN FESTIVAL OVERVIEW[/button]
This year, elrow will be hosting an epic End Party in the Bacardi Arena. Elrow’s known for its amazing, crazy, and colorful parties. For Sziget, the group’s unique show concept will be Sambowdromo do Brasil, showcasing interactive performances, stilt walkers, acrobats, confetti blizzards and much more!
The complete Sziget 2018 line-up is out!
Detailed program schedules are available for 17 stages. Check out the full line-up here.
The celebrated festival won ‘Line-Up of the Year’ at the European Festival Awards 2017 after standing out among a group of festivals including Glastonbury, Roskilde and Lollapalooza, for a second year running in a category compiled by experts and voted for by the public.
One, three, five and seven day tickets for Sziget are on sale. Prices start at just €75.
Line-Up (A-Z):
Alle Farben
Arctic Monkeys
Asaf Avidan
Aurora
Bastille
Bilderbuch
Blossoms
Bonobo live
Borgore
BØRNS
Cigarettes After Sex
Clean Bandit
Damian Lazarus & the Ancient Moons
Delta Heavy
Desiigner
DJ Licious
Don Diablo
Dua Lipa
Everything Everything
Fever Ray
Fink
Flux Pavilion
Gogol Bordello
Goo Goo Dolls
Gorgon City live
Gorillaz
Halott Pénz
Jan Blomqvist
Joe Goddard (live)
JP Cooper
Kaleo
Kendrick Lamar
King Arthur
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard
KSHMR
Kygo
La Femme
Lana del Rey
Lemaitre
Lewis Capaldi
Liam Gallagher
Lianne La Havas
Little Dragon
Lykke Li
Michael Calfan
Milky Chance
MØ
Mumford & Sons
My Baby
Nick Murphy fka Chet Faker
Nothing But Thieves
Oscar and the Wolf
Parov Stelar
Pertubator
Petit Biscuit
Punnany Massif
Rhye
Scarlxrd
Seasick Steve
SG Lewis
Shame
Shawn Mendes
Slaves
Sofi Tukker
Stormzy
The Kooks
The Living End
The War on Drugs
Tujamo
Unknown Mortal Orchestra
Vad Fruttik
What So Not
WhoMadeWho
Wolf Alice
Yellow Claw
Yellow Days
Zara Larsson
Zhu
Zonderling
+ many more artists across over 50 stages
Day tickets start at €75 with three, five and seven-day tickets also available. For more information and tickets, visit szigetfestival.com.
Photo: facebook.com/SzigetFestivalOfficial
The Great Hungarian Festival Overview
Temperatures are rising, flowers are blooming, and it gets ever easier to imagine ourselves lying on the beach, sunbathing or hiking. With summer just around the corner, it is now high time we started planning our holidays. For those opting for a more musical holiday, here is an overview of Hungarian festivals to make the choice easier… or harder, as Hungary offers a stunning variety of music festivals all summer long – everyone can find the perfect location, time and style. Without further ado let us see what we have got:
FESZT! EGER
31 May – 2 June, Eger
The very first festival of the year takes place in the Bolyki Valley. The programme promises a dynamic start to the festival season with Hungarian bands such as Wellhello, Irie Maffia or Blahalousiana; and some really great wines as well. Combine it with some sightseeing in Eger, and the great experience is guaranteed.
HARLEY-DAVIDSON OPEN ROAD FEST
6-10 June, Alsóörs, Lake Balaton
“Ride into the summertime” with Hungary’s largest biker festival, which is loud of both engine sounds and music. Among the performers will be the famous Hungarian rock band Tankcsapda and big international names such as Apocalyptica and Canned Heat.
More information
FISHING ON ORFŰ
20-23 June, Orfű, Panoráma Camping
A festival made special not only by a wide range of genres but also by its cosy atmosphere and closeness to nature. Enjoy some concerts while bathing in the Lake of Orfű, and do not be surprised if you keep running into the musicians while waiting for your beer. Hungarian bands dominate the programme, so it is a great opportunity to get acquainted with our famous and our up-and-coming favourites as well: 30Y, Ivan and the Parazol, Kiscsillag from the headliners, Middlemist Red or Fran Palermo to name just a few of the young talents.
More information
VOLT FESTIVAL
26-30 June, Sopron
As one of the largest in Hungary, the ever-growing festival does not need much introduction anymore. VOLT festival offers a lively setting for entertainment and socialising, and the line-up speaks for itself: Depeche Mode, Iron Maiden, Avenged Sevenfold, Limp Bizkit, Hurts… and we are just getting started! Read more news about VOLT FESTIVAL.
BALATON SOUND
4-8 July, Zamárdi, Lake Balaton
The most fabulous beach party in Hungary. For those keen on electronic music, the southern shore of Lake Balaton is the place to be in July. Drink a cocktail or have some fun in the water and enjoy the party provided by David Guetta, Rita Ora, Big Sean or the Chainsmokers, just to name a few. More news about BALATON SOUND.
More information
ROCKMARATON
9-14 July, Dunaújváros
Fans of punk, rock and metal music can let the steam off together in a six-day-long marathon. The festival righteously calls itself the “Rockparadise in the heart of Hungary”. The list of artists include Cannibal Corpse, Alestorm, Iced Earth, and they offer thematic days such us Folkmetal Friday.
More information
EFOTT
10-16 July, Velence
Yet another lake festival, EFOTT is an excellent student party next to Lake Velence. Only 45 kilometres away from Budapest, in a friendly environment, with the mixture of Hungarian household names – Punnany Massif, Halott Pénz, Rúzsa Magdi, Brains – and international stars like Jessie J, John Newman and Dub FX, the fun is guaranteed.
VESZPRÉMFEST
11-14 July, Veszprém
A premium music festival celebrating its 15th jubilee awaits lovers of soul, blues and jazz music, with top names and excellent wines. This year prominent opera singers will also perform such as José Cura, Erika Miklósa, Ramón Vargas or Andrea Rost.
VESZPRÉM STREET MUSIC FESTIVAL
18-21 July, Veszprém
Once you are in Veszprém, do not go far, as the Street Music Festival starts just a few days after VeszprémFest.
There are concerts and programmes all over the historic city, offering an atmosphere of familiarity and freedom – and indeed, the festival is free. Artists coming from an impressive variety of countries perform around the clock.
CAMPUS FESTIVAL
July 18-21, Debrecen
A festival at the Great Forest to enjoy music and gastronomy as well. The hit names this year include Akon, Sigma and Ignite. Several Hungarian musicians and bands prepare special jubilee concerts, such as Ákos, Tankcsapda or András Lovasi. The festival promises a record number of Hungarian bands.
More information
VALLEY OF ARTS
20-29 July, Kapolcs and surrounding villages
An extraordinary festival for the whole family spread around Kapolcs. Here tradition meets modern life, with workshops, handicraft stalls and concerts both Hungarian and international, like Rebecca Fergusson. The Valley of Arts awaits the youngest as well with special children programmes.
FEZEN
25-28 July, Székesfehérvár
Székesfehérvár is one of the largest Hungarian city, rich in historical heritage. It is located halfway between Budapest and Lake Balaton, close to Lake Velence, but more importantly has its own ground shaking festival, FEZEN. The big names this year include The Prodigy, Enter Shikari, Pitbull and Epica.
ÖRDÖGKATLAN FESTIVAL
(Devil’s Cauldron)
31 July – 4 August, Baranya County (4 villages)
A unique festival located in four villages in the wine region of Baranya county. Ördögkatlan provides a colourful spectrum of cultural programmes, including circus, literature, fine arts, theatre and, of course, music. A multicultural and peaceful festival for all, with international and Hungarian performers.
SZIGET
8-15 August, Budapest
The island of freedom is, by all means, the largest and most famous festival in Hungary. Seven days full of programmes, boat parties, performing arts, concerts, “Art of Freedom” exhibition, living statue championship and so on. To make the most of your time, you can buy a city pass, which allows you to visit certain spas and use shuttle buses free of charge. What better way to rest between concerts? Speaking of music, just a few of the headliners: Arctic Monkeys, Lana Del Ray, Shawn Mendes, Mumford and Sons, Kygo, Dua Lipa, etc. Read more news about Sziget Festival HERE.
STRAND FESTIVAL
22-25 August, Zamárdi, Lake Balaton
SOUND festival is not the only beach festival in Zamárdi; the Strand Festival is also becoming more and more popular. Robin Schulz, Sigala, and Thirty Seconds to Mars will make sure that everyone ends their summer on a high note.
More information
B.MY.LAKE
22-25 August, Keszthely, Lake Balaton
That is right, same date, same lake but two awesome festivals. B.my.Lake takes place parallel to Strand Festival, and if you are into electronic music, then this is your place. Among others, Richie Hawtin, Marco Carola and Maceo Plex await the party animals.
SZIN
22-26 August, Szeged
The longest-running festival in Hungary is for all who are young in soul and mind. The riverside event hosts concerts of mainly Hungarian bands like Csík zenekar, Quimby, Paddy and the Rats, PASO and their programme is not even complete yet!
These were, of course, only the largest music festivals, but make sure to check out other ones as well, such as the Lavender Festival, the Open-Air Festival of Szeged, the Flower Carnival, and all the other sport and culinary events. We hope to have sparked your interest with our overview. Let us face it, the decision will not be easy, but wherever you decide to go, we wish you a wonderful time.
Source of images: fishingonorfu.hu
Sziget reveal three stages of world music, new music & electronic music for 2018
The World Stage, Europe Stage and The Colosseum will showcase the best in alternative, new and electronic music from around the world including artists Les Negresses Vertes, LaBrass Banda, Tommy CA$H, KETTCAR, Blaudzun, Ben UFO, The Martinez Brothers, Tiga and over 100 more.
DATE: 8th-15th August 2018
VENUE: Óbudai-sziget, Budapest, Hungary
Sziget unveils its unrivaled acclaimed worldwide programming with three stages of alternative acts from around the globe. Artists set to perform on the World Music Stage include Les Negresses Vertes, Transglobal Underground feat. Natacha Atlas LaBrass Banda. Championing new music on the Europe Stage will be about to break acts from the world over including Tommy CA$H, KETTCAR, Blaudzun and Fresku. International electronic acts who will play at Colosseum sponsored by Telekom include Ben UFO, Eagles & Butterflies, The Martinez Brothers & Tiga.
Bringing together 450,000 people and tipped as the continents Glastonbury equivalent, the ‘Line-Up of the Year 2017’ winners are back 8-15 August for an unforgettable festival for any music lover.
Following the announcement that the ‘Born to Die’ hitmaker, Lana Del Rey will be bringing her unique style of glamorous pop melancholia to Budapest’s Sziget Festival’s headline slot in August, the festival is proud to announce three stages of alternative music that will showcase talent from around the world. Joining genre-spanning and globally recognised acts such as Gorillaz, Kendrick Lamar and Arctic Monkeys who will be performing on the Main Stage at Sziget 2018, the acclaimed festival unveil the worldwide lineups for the World Music Stage, Europe Stage, and The Colosseum.
The World Music Stage will take any preconceptions the Sziget-goer has of the words World Music and throw them out of the continent. With performances from the incredible French alternative rock collective, Les Negresses Vertes, the electrifying fusion of jazz, punk and reggae from Sziget favourites LaBrassBanda and the innovative blend of Afropop and European rock from exhilarating Kinshasa veterans, Jupiter & Okwess.
Bringing Estonia to Hungary, Tommy CA$H will exhibit his otherworldly brash rap music, cinematic visuals and arresting style to the European Stage, sharing the bill with Hamburg based indie rock band KETTCAR and Dutch singer-songwriter Blaudzun’s introspective and innovative singer-songwriting talents.
If festival goers are looking for a unique location to party, then seek no further than The Colosseum. Entering through a dog-head, witness a venue built entirely of pallets to experience eclectic and innovative progressive electronic music like never before. With sets from Cologne natives Andhim. Their unique sound, full of hip-hop samples and energy, the boys will bring their self-described “super-house” genre to Sziget alongside one of the year’s most sought after DJ’s Ben UFO, and acclaimed electronic anarchist, Dave Clarke.
Sziget is one of the world’s largest music and arts festivals. It takes place on Budapest‘s Óbudai-sziget, which is appropriately transformed into the ‘Island of Freedom’ every August. It welcomes ‘Szitizens’ from across the globe, of all backgrounds, in one place. Festival goers will enjoy performances courtesy of some of today’s biggest artists, including hip-hop superstar Kendrick Lamar, and acclaimed DJ extraordinaire Kygo. There’s also the mindblowing virtual band, Gorillaz, pop’s newest darling and 2018 Brit Award winner, Dua Lipa and the folk-rock legends Mumford & Sons who are playing a European festival exclusive.
The celebrated festival won ‘Line-Up of the Year’ at the European Festival Awards 2017 after standing out among a group of festivals including Glastonbury, Rokslide and Lollapalooza, for a second year running in a category compiled by experts and voted for by the public.
One, three, five and seven day tickets for Sziget are on sale. Prices start at just €70. For more information and tickets, visit szigetfestival.com.
Sziget Headliners
(A-Z)
Arctic Monkeys
Dua Lipa
Gorillaz
Kendrick Lamar
Kygo
Lana Del Rey
Mumford & Sons
Europe+ Stage
(A-Z)
1Motta
5’NIZZA
Astronautalis
BEISSOUL & EINIUS
Blaudzun
Bostich + Fussible from Nortec Collective
CHEFBOSS
Electric Fields
Ezhel
Francobollo
Fresku
KETTCAR
Klub Des Loosers
La Sra. Tomasa
Lea Santee
MEUTE
Moonchild Sanelly
Omer Netzer
Peter Aristone
Run Over Dogs
Satra BENZ
SENBEÏ
Sexy Zebras
Shell Beach
Smokey Joe & The Kid
Sol Monk & Jenny
Strapo
TÉMÉ TAN
The Lytics
The Paz Band
The Poppers
Thom Artway
Tommy CA$H
Willi Peyote
World Music Stage presented by Ibis
(A-Z)
Anima Sound System
Baba Zula
Besh d droM
Bukahara
Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino
Chalaban
El Juntacadaveres
Garmarna
Griot Blues
Hartyga
Hora de Joglar
Ifriqiyya Electrique
Jewish Monkeys
Jupiter & Okwess
Kistehén
Kries
LaBrass Banda
Ladánybene 27
Les Negresses Vertes
Meszecsinka
Mon côté punk
Mr Žarko
Onuka
Pannonia Allstars Ska Orchestra
Plaza Francia Orchestra
Szikra (Amsterdam Klezmer Band & Söndörgő)
The Poppers
Thom Artway
Tommy CA$H
Transglobal Underground feat. Natacha Atlas
Colosseum sponsored by Telekom
(A-Z)
Andhim
Ben UFO
Dave Clarke
Dense & Pika
Eagles & Butterflies
Eelke Kleijn
Enrico Sanguiliano
Hernan Cattaneo
Jesse Calosso
Mind Against
Nakadia
Nicolas lutz
Paula Temple b2b Rebekah
Popof
Raresh
Rodriguez Jr.
Sama
The Martinez Brothers
Tiga
Day tickets start at € 70 with three, five and seven-day tickets also available. For more information and tickets, visit szigetfestival.com.
Photo: Sándor Csudai – facebook.com/csudaisandor
Lana Del Rey announced as final headliner for Sziget 2018
The dreamy pop queen joins the star-studded line up including Arctic Monkeys, Dua Lipa, Gorillaz, Kendrick Lamar, Kygo & Mumford & Sons as headliners and over 100 artists across the seven-day festival.
DATE: 8th-15th August 2018
VENUE: Óbudai-sziget, Budapest, Hungary
Sziget can reveal that Lana Del Rey will be bringing some glamorously melancholic pop to the 26th edition of Sziget. She’ll be joining the likes of Arctic Monkeys, Dua Lipa, Gorillaz, Kendrick Lamar, Mumford & Sons, and Kygo who are all headlining this unforgettable festival. Hosting some of the world’s biggest stars, Sziget has 50 stages, bringing together over 450,000 people and is tipped as the continent’s Glastonbury equivalent. Having won ‘Line-up of the Year’ in 2017, Sziget is back 8-15 August. Day tickets start at €70 with three, five and seven-day tickets also available. For more information and tickets, visit szigetfestival.com.
The ‘Lust for Life’ hitmaker, Lana Del Rey will be bringing her unique style of glamorous pop melancholia to Budapest’s Sziget Festival in August. Recognized for her dreamy lyricism, tragic romance and ability to tap into historic pop culture, she’s come a long way from her New York roots. Her homemade music videos for ‘Video Games’ and ‘Blue Jeans’ went viral for their stylized cinematic qualities in the build up to her breakthrough album ‘Born to Die’, for which she won a Brit award. Her second album, ‘Paradise’ earned her two Grammy nominations.
Del Rey’s most recent accomplishments include collaborations with The Weeknd, ASAP Rocky and Stevie Nicks for her number-one album ‘Lust for Life’. Recently it was revealed that the pop icon was in the process of writing a musical and shared a dreamy rendition of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘You Must Love Me’, originally performed by Madonna. She is sure to exude retro sensibility with futuristic flair when she plays the sun-kissed island of Sziget this summer.
Further new additions to the Sziget 2018 line up also revealed include Fever Ray, BØRNS, Asaf Avidan, Don Diablo, Aurora, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, ZHU, Tujamo, Damian Lazarus & the Ancient Moons, Jan Blomqvist & band and SG Lewis.
Sziget is one of the world’s largest music and arts festivals. It takes place on Budapest’s Óbudai-sziget, which is appropriately transformed into the ‘Island of Freedom’ every August. It welcomes ‘Szitizens’ from over 100 nations, of all backgrounds, in one place. Revelers will enjoy performances courtesy of some of today’s biggest artists, including hip-hop superstar Kendrick Lamar, and acclaimed DJ extraordinaire Kygo. There’s also the mind-blowing virtual band, Gorillaz, pop’s newest darling and 2018 Brit Award winner, Dua Lipa and the folk-rock legends Mumford & Sons who are playing a European festival exclusive.
The celebrated festival won ‘Line-Up of the Year’ at the European Festival Awards 2017 after standing out among a group of festivals including Glastonbury, Rokslide and Lollapalooza, for a second year running in a category compiled by experts and voted for by the public.
One-, three-, five- and seven-day tickets for Sziget are on sale. Prices start at just €70. For more information and tickets, visit szigetfestival.com.
Sziget 2018 line up:
Arctic Monkeys
Dua Lipa
Gorillaz
Kendrick Lamar
Kygo
Lana Del Rey
Mumford & Sons
Shawn Mendes
Liam Gallagher
Bastille
Lykke Li
Stormzy
Parov Stelar
The War On Drugs
The Kooks
MØ
Nick Murphy fka Chet Faker
Kaleo
Zara Larsson
Gogol Bordello
Clean Bandit
Blossoms
Fever Ray
Milky Chance
Børns
Wolf Alice
Lianne La Havas
Desiigner
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard
Asaf Avidan
Little Dragon
Cigarettes After Sex
JP Cooper
Gorgon City live
Goo Goo Dolls
Fink
Seasick Steve
Don Diablo
Above & Beyond
Unknown Mortal Orchestra
Petit Biscuit
Aurora
Nothing But Thieves
Slaves
KSHMR
Everything Everything
Borgore
ZHU
Lewis Capaldi
Lemaitre
The Living End
La Femme
Sofi Tukker
Scarlxrd
Joe Goddard live
Tujamo
Ummet Ozcan
Sam Feldt live
Jay Hardway
Delta Heavy
The Him
Seven Lions
Alle Farben
Yellow Days
Damian Lazarus & The Ancient Moons
Bilderbuch
WhoMadeWho
Shame
My Baby
Jan Blomqvist & Band
SG Lewis
Perturbator
Get TICKETS and more informations: https://szigetfestival.com/en/
New paying method introduced at Sziget Festival
The greatest festivals in Hungary — including award-winning Sziget — are introducing an innovative paying method this year. Thanks to this new technology, festival cards will be replaced with chips installed into the armbands.
The new paying method involving the armbands will be applied at the festivals of Sziget group, according to Portfolio. Sziget also confirmed that the festival cards were used for the last time in 2017.
The technology has already been tested at Neversea festival in Romania. Festipay, an enterprise dedicated to paying methods at events developed this solution, which solved ID-based entering and payment with a single chip installed in the armband. The website of the festival provided an interface for transferring funds from bank accounts to the personal chip online.
This system will be introduced this year not only at Sziget, but also at VOLT and Balaton Sound.
The chips in the armbands will operate with radio-frequency identifier (RFID) system. The chip will work a similar way to a keycard: it will contain information about the warrants of the owner and it will allow the entitled guest to enter the festival and the camping.
The chip contains the paying functions of the former festival card. This solution secures that guests will not lose their “ticket”, and it is easy to carry it everywhere. The price of the chip will be included in the ticket price, on the contrary to the festival card which required a minor deposit.
The chip’s account can also be balanced through a mobile application and at the venue.
Transferring the sums before the festival might prevent standing in long lines at the scene. However, people who still prefer paying by PayPass will still be provided with the opportunity to do so.
The system does not differ much from the festival card in the sense of operation: it is only needed to touch to an RFID reader unit, and the funds are transferred.
Besides comfort reasons, the chips are meant to further decrease ticket frauds and misuse of paying methods.
Festipay’s success is marked by the fact that they recorded about 7 million transfers at 22 festivals in 2016, while this tendency increased to 10 million transactions at 26 different events in 2017. Their main field of operation is currently Romania, but they have begun to extend towards Scandinavia and Italy as well.
Photo: Facebook.com/Festipayeventtechnology
Dua Lipa, Gorillaz and many more added to Sziget 2018
Sziget is proud to announce Dua Lipa and Gorillaz will be headlining its 26th edition of Sziget, alongside Arctic Monkeys, Kendrick Lamar, Kygo and Mumford & Sons. Taking place from the 8th-15th August in Budapest, the multi-award winning festival can also reveal Shawn Mendes, Stormzy The War on Drugs, Lianne La Havas, King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard and many more have just been added to the third line up reveal.
Playing host to some of the most renowned names in music today across 50 stages, and bringing together over 450,000 people, Sziget has been tipped as the continent’s answer to Glastonbury. One, three, five and seven day tickets for Sziget are now on sale. Prices start at €70.
DATE: 8th-15th August 2018
VENUE: Óbudai-sziget, Budapest, Hungary
Arguably the biggest female artist of this year, Dua Lipa is one of the latest confirmed headliners of Budapest’s Sziget festival. The ‘New Rules’ singer has earned herself a record-breaking five Brit awards, a performance at the Grammy Awards and worldwide recognition at just the young age of 22. She’s joined by the collaborative art-music project by Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett, Gorillaz. After returning from hiatus with the star-studded Humanz album, the legendary virtual rock group are returning to the festival eight years after their first appearance.
Teen heartthrob Shawn Mendes has also been added to the Sziget Festival 2018 lineup as he teases his highly anticipated third album. Joining him will be multi-MOBO award winning grime sensation Stormzy, whose debut album was the first grime album to reach number one of the UK Albums Chart. Also performing are Grammy-award winning indie band, The War on Drugs, multi-instrumentalist Lianne La Havas and Manchester’s own JP Cooper. In addition to this, Australian rockers King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard have also been announced after releasing an impressive five albums in 2017.
This latest wave of artists will be joining hip-hop heavyweight Kendrick Lamar, indie royalty Arctic Monkeys, internationally-acclaimed DJ Kygo and folk-rock pioneers Mumford & Sons who will be playing their only European festival set of the summer. Taking place on Budapest’s Óbudai-sziget – appropriately transformed into the ‘Island of Freedom’ every August, ‘Szitizens’ are sure to celebrate all forms of culture, race, tastes and interests while converging in one idyllic location.
After winning ‘Line-up of the Year’ at the European Festival Awards 2017 (for the second year running), Sziget stood out among 10 of the world’s best festivals including Glastonbury, Roskilde and Lollapalooza when selected by industry experts and voted for by the public.
One, three, five and seven day tickets for Sziget are now on sale. Prices start at €70. For more information and tickets, visit szigetfestival.com.
Sziget 2018 line up (A-Z)
Above & Beyond
Alle Farben
Arctic Monkeys
Bastille
Bilderbuch
Blossoms
Borgore
Cigarettes After Sex
Clean Bandit
Delta Heavy
Desiigner
Dua Lipa
Everything Everything
Fink
Gogol Bordello
Goo Goo Dolls
Gorgon City live
Gorillaz
Jay Hardway
Joe Goddard live
JP Cooper
Kaleo
Kendrick Lamar
King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard
KSHMR
Kygo
La Femme
Lemaitre
Lewis Capaldi
Liam Gallagher
Lianne La Havas
Little Dragon
Lykke Li
Milky Chance
MØ
Mumford & Sons
My Baby
Nick Murphy fka Chet Faker
Nothing But Thieves
Parov Stelar
Perturbator
Petit Biscuit
Sam Feldt live
Scarlxrd
Seasick Steve
Seven Lion
Shame
Shawn Mendes
Slaves
Sofi Tukker
Stormzy
The Him
The Kooks
The Living End
The War On Drugs
Ummet Ozcan
WhoMadeWho
Wolf Alice
Yellow Days
Zara Larsson
+ many more to be announced soon
Photo: www.facebook.com/SzigetFestivalOfficial
Arctic Monkeys will join Sziget headliners in 2018
Sziget can reveal that Arctic Monkeys will join its 26th edition in 2018 in Budapest. The indie royalty is another huge headline addition to the multi award-winning festival which will see worldwide superstars perform to hundreds of thousands, including Kendrick Lamar, Mumford & Sons, Kygo, Liam Gallagher, Bastille, MØ and many more already announced. Day tickets start at 65 euros with three, five and seven-day tickets also available.
The iconic British indie rock band made up of the legendary Alex Turner, Matt Helders, Jamie Cook and Nick O’Malley will jet off to Budapest’s Sziget Festival in August. One of the UK’s most revered and beloved bands, the Arctic Monkeys are one of the most important acts of their generation. Since forming in Sheffield in 2002 the band skyrocketed to success with their debut album ‘Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not’, which was the fastest selling album in UK chart history on its release in 2006.
Since then the band has been on a meteoric rise to legendary status, with four more critically acclaimed albums, numerous awards, Glastonbury headline performances and number one singles globally all under their belt. The four-piece will be bringing their inimitable distinct brand of British rock and roll to Sziget.
Sziget is one of Europe (and the world’s) largest music and arts festivals. Taking place on Budapest’s Óbudai-sziget – appropriately transformed into the ‘Island of Freedom’ every August – the festival welcomes ‘Szitizens’ from over 100 nations to come together and celebrate all forms of different culture, race, tastes and interests in one place.
Celebrated and awarded for its line-up, Sziget took home the award for best ‘Line-Up of the Year’ at the European Festival Awards 2017 for the second year running. Sziget stood out among 10 of the best festivals including Glastonbury, Roskilde, and Lollapalooza in the category compiled by experts and voted for by the public.
One, three, five and seven day tickets for Sziget are now on sale. Prices start at 65 euros. For more information and tickets, visit szigetfestival.com.
Sziget 2018 line up so far:
Arctic Monkeys
Kendrick Lamar
Kygo
Mumford & Sons
Liam Gallagher
Bastille
Lykke Li
The Kooks
MØ
Parov Stelar
Kaleo
Zara Larsson
Gogol Bordello
Clean Bandit
Blossoms
Milky Chance
Wolf Alice
Little Dragon
Cigarettes After Sex
Goo Goo Dolls
Fink
Seasick Steve
Nothing But Thieves
Slaves
Everything Everything
Lewis Capaldi
Lemaitre
La Femme
Joe Goddard (live)
Above & Beyond
Ummet Ozcan
Sam Feldt
Jay Hardway
The Him
Alle Farben
WhoMadeWho
Shame
Perturbator
+ many more to be announced soon
Date:
8th-15th August 2018
Venue:
Óbudai-sziget, Budapest, Hungary
15 reasons why you should visit Hungary
If you google Hungary or Budapest, you will find numerous travel journals, videos, articles written by foreigners, telling you why Hungary and the capital city is worth a trip. Buzzfeed did as well, highlighting festivals, different towns and traditions, hungaricums, also providing the reader with useful tips related to each item.
1 – Buda Castle
It is no wonder the Buda Castle is featured on the UNESCO World Heritage list, as it is possibly the most beautiful combination in the world, consisting of the hillside, architecture and the Danube.
Tip: try and visit the castle district after sundown, the lights are magical at those hours.
2 – Hortobágy
Hortobágy is the most plain-like plain not only in the Hungarian Great Plain but whole Europe. It is worth visiting because of the beautiful sunsets, the traditional Hungarian wells, and because of the trick shows of the Hungarian cowboys (‘csikós’).
Tip: Check out the Nine-holed Bridge, the symbol of Hortobágy.
3 – Pécs
A pleasant Mediterranean climate, Europe’s most northern-located mosque, lively night-life and vast crowds of university students is why Pécs is the second best city in Hungary, according to Buzzfeed.
Tip: there’s a small village nearby, Villány, where you will find the best red wine in the country.
4 – Hollókő
Traditions are cultivated and protected everywhere in Hungary, but Hollókő stands out from the rest of the villages. The romantic sights, the old houses and the colourful traditional costumes are why you should not skip Hollókő if you’re interested in old Hungarian values.
Tip: if you can visit during Easter when the local men grab buckets full of water and honour the women by pouring a bucket onto each one of them.
5 – Siófok
Just like Ibiza! Siófok is located on the southern bank of Lake Balaton, which is Central Europe’s largest lake. Siófok is practically a party town during the summer days. Beautiful Hungarian women, sunshine, clubs, where the party never ends, what else needs to be said?
Tip (for party lovers): a few kilometres away Hungary’s biggest electronic music festival, Balaton Sound, is organised yearly at Zamárdi.
6 – Esztergom
Esztergom is a charming town, which serves as Hungary’s spiritual home. At its heart lies the architectural and artistic wonder that the basilica is. Here the Danube serves as the border between Slovakia and Hungary. Esztergom is one of the oldest Hungarian cities, where you can literally breathe in history.
7 – Jewish traditions in Budapest
Do you remember that the Dohány Street Synagogue is the largest one on the European continent? Jewish traditions are thriving in Budapest and the 7th district, in the traditional Jewish district, you will find numerous memorials next to popular cafés and pubs.
Tip: make sure to take a walk along Kazinczy street.
Photo by Guavin Pictures
8 – Balaton Uplands
The Balaton Uplands on the northern bank of Lake Balaton often slip people’s attention, even though there is an abundance of things to be seen here. For example, tiny volcanoes, vineyards where you can get a taste of the local grape, cultural festivals, bicycle roads and a beautiful view of the lake.
Tip: you can get a view of the whole lake from the hill of the Tihany Abbey. The abbey is actually one of the most astonishing churches in Hungary.
9 – Aggtelek
Central Europe’s biggest and most intricate cave system is between an enchanted forest and the castle of a queen from a fairy tale. We’re not surprised that the Aggtelek Caves are also one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Tip: half of the cave belongs to Slovakia, thus on particular days you can cross the border underground.
10 – Sziget Festival
There’s an island on the Danube that goes crazy every August. One of Europe’s biggest and most popular music festivals is organised here for more than 20 years now. The festival’s success is so great abroad that the Dutch, French and Italian visitors outnumber the Hungarians.
Tip: if you’re already at Sziget, take a look around Budapest if you have some free time. All festival-goers do this.
11 – Debrecen
Debrecen is Hungary’s second biggest city, also dubbed as the ‘Calvinist Rome’. The busy and devoted locals built a church on the main square, and you will hardly find another such well-kept city in Hungary. If you’re visiting in August, you might be able to catch the Flower Carnival.
Tip: the local football team is said to be the best in the country, and the football stadium is a pretty cool sight.
12 – Szentendre
Although Szentendre is extremely close to Budapest, it is an entirely different world. Szentendre is the beloved place of Hungarian artists and bohemians, and the cobbled streets and unusual cafés work like magnets when it comes to tourists.
Tip: the old royal Hungarian inhabitancy, the Visegrád castle, is located close-by, which if you visit Szentendre too, won’t even take up a day.
13 – The baths in Budapest
Be it roofed or outdoors, modern or medieval, steam bath or sauna, the Budapest baths will surely satisfy all your water-related cravings. There is a handful of baths to choose from in the city of waters.
Tip: be careful, some baths can be visited only by men.
14 – Tokaj
The local aszú (muscatel) is rightfully crowned as the king of wines: Buzzfeed argues that an old Burgundy red wine will be just a quality grape juice compared to the wines that are produced at the hillsides of northern Hungary. Plus, the prices are reasonable.
Tip: the best hotels and restaurants in the area are in Mád.
15 – Ecseri Flea Market
As we’ve said previously, it is indeed mind-blowing how many treasures and collection items you can find at this flea market near Budapest. All eras and all functions are represented here.
Tip: observe the sellers too, they are quite impressive people.
Kendrick Lamar, Kygo and Mumford & Sons to headline Sziget 2018
Tipped as the continent’s answer to Glastonbury, the award-winning, globally renowned seven-day music & arts experience will bring together 450,000 people for Europe’s largest cultural encounter of its kind. Sziget reveals Liam Gallagher, Bastille, The Kooks, MØ, Parov Stelar, The War On Drugs, Zara Larsson, Clean Bandit, Blossoms, Wolf Alice, Little Dragon, and more and so many more to be announced soon.
One of the world’s biggest and most celebrated music and art festivals, enjoyed by and likened to Glastonbury by its founder Michael Eavis makes its return for 2018 with huge global stars for its 26th edition. From 8th-15th August, Sziget will play host to some of the most renowned names in music today across more than 50 stages, including Kendrick Lamar, Kygo, Mumford & Sons, Liam Gallagher, Bastille, The Kooks, MØ, Parov Stelar, Zara Larsson, Clean Bandit, Blossoms, Wolf Alice, Little Dragon, Everything Everything, Cigarettes After Sex and more in its first line up reveal.
Set in the heart of Budapest on Óbuda Island, Sziget is a community built festival and known as the ‘Island of Freedom’.
Sziget is dedicated to embracing diversity and has launched ‘Love Revolution’, using the power of the community to celebrate and bring love, acceptance, tolerance, and freedom to the heart of Budapest and beyond. Day tickets start at 65 euros with three, five and seven-day tickets also available. For more information and tickets, visit szigetfestival.com
Sziget is one of Europe (and the world’s) largest music and arts festivals. Taking place on Budapest’s Óbudai-sziget – appropriately transformed into the ‘Island of Freedom’ every August – the festival welcomes ‘Szitizens’ from over 100 nations to come together and celebrate all forms of different culture, race, tastes and interests in one place.
Kendrick Lamar, the multi Grammy winning American sensation, known for his soaring ambition and lyrical talent, will headline Sziget Festival. Also headlining will be Norweigan DJ and producer Kygo who has been selling out stadiums since rising to fame four years ago with his unique electronic sound that captured a generation. Completing the headline bill and bringing with them a whole host of sing-along hits will be undisputed kings of folk-rock Mumford & Sons.
Among the first acts announced for Sziget 2018 is ‘Rock ‘N’ Roll Star’ Liam Gallagher, hot off the back of his critically acclaimed debut solo album and long overdue announcement as NME’s Godlike Genius 2018. Alongside him are London rockers and best mates Wolf Alice and Slaves, who will be bringing their unparalleled energy to the Hungarian stage. American rock band, Goo Goo Dolls, who have sold over 12 million albums worldwide will be performing alongside kings of nostalgia The Kooks, indie masters Bastille, electro alt-pop geniuses Everything Everything, homeless turned folk-hero Seasick Steve, as well as Cigarettes After Sex, Nothing But Thieves and many more.
There will also be a spectacular array of electronic acts performing at this year’s festival. Chart toppers Clean Bandit will be gracing the stage with their classical inspired electropop, as will Danish singer, songwriter, and electropop producer MØ, the mind behind the magnificent 2015 summer collaboration with Major Lazer ‘Lean On’. Also performing will be electronic music legends Little Dragon. From Gottenburg, their iconic blend of alternative R&B, soul, and synthpop promises to mystify Szitizens.
Celebrated and awarded for its line-up, Sziget took home the award for best ‘Line-Up of the Year’ at the European Festival Awards 2017 for the second year running. Sziget stood out among 10 of the best festivals including Glastonbury, Roskilde, and Lollapalooza in the category compiled by experts and voted for by the public.
[button link=”https://dailynewshungary.com/hungarian-sziget-festival-receives-illustrious-international-award/” type=”big” color=”red” newwindow=”yes”] HUNGARIAN SZIGET FESTIVAL RECEIVES ILLUSTRIOUS INTERNATIONAL AWARD[/button]
One, three, five and seven day tickets for Sziget are now on sale. Prices start at £65. For more information and tickets, visit szigetfestival.com.
The first wave of Sziget 2018 line up:
Kendrick Lamar
Kygo
Mumford & Sons
Liam Gallagher
Bastille
Lykke Li
The Kooks
MØ
Parov Stelar
Kaleo
Zara Larsson
Gogol Bordello
Clean Bandit
Blossoms
Milky Chance
Wolf Alice
Little Dragon
Cigarettes After Sex
Goo Goo Dolls
Fink
Seasick Steve
Above & Beyond
Nothing But Thieves
Slaves
Everything Everything
Lewis Capaldi
Lemaitre
La Femme
Joe Goddard (live)
Ummet Ozcan
Sam Feldt (live)
Jay Hardway
The Him
Alle Farben
WhoMadeWho
Shame
Perturbator
+ many more to be announced soon
Venue:
Óbudai-sziget, Budapest, Hungary
Hungarian Sziget festival receives illustrious international award
The category prizes of the European Festival Awards were handed out recently in the Netherlands, Origo.hu reports. The Hungarian Sziget Festival received an important acknowledgement again: the organisers selected it for having the best Line-up of the year.
The European Festival Awards is considered to be the primary event honouring festivals. Practically, it is the Oscar in the world of festivals.
Sziget has already received the prize of “the best among the best” in several categories.
It was the Best Major Festival twice, and Sziget also won the Line-up of the Year already. Moreover, it was awarded the Favourite festival of the Musicians and last year they received the Lifetime Achievement Award. It was posthumously given to Dan Panaitescu, Sziget’s co-worker who passed away in a tragic car accident.
On this year’s gala, Sziget was greatly honoured again, as it was rewarded Line-up of the Year. During the ceremony, the organisers highlighted that in this category, not only the headliners count, but the whole programme of the festival.
According to the organisers’ announcement, Tamás Kádár, CEO at Sziget Cultural Management Ltd. told them when receiving the award that it is a huge surprise for them to be awarded again, and they are extremely happy for Sziget has been acknowledged for its unique, multi-coloured musical line-up.
In this category, Sziget proved to be better than such festivals as Glastonbury, Roskilde, or Lollapalooza.
The list of the top 10 festivals was put together by specialists; the final results were decided by the votes of the audience.
The first names of Sziget 2018 will soon be announced. Until that, we can relive the 2017 festival, for instance, by watching last year’s aftermovie here.
Featured Image: www.facebook.com/SzigetFestival/photos/
Swedish Nomad: 55 reasons to visit Hungary
by SWEDISH NOMAD (Guest author)
Ever since I found out about my Hungarian ancestry as a kid, I’ve been inspired to learn more and eager to visit Hungary. In the recent years, I’ve been exploring the country quite a lot, and last summer, especially when Christine and I did a road trip by train from Budapest to Eger, Miskolc, Tokaji, Debrecen and back to Budapest!
This article is a tribute to my Hungarian heritage and my grandfather Géza Waltner, who lives in the small but charming town of Sajószentpéter.
If you haven’t yet been, I urge you to go and experience all that Hungary has to offer. Here are 55 reasons why I think everyone should visit Hungary at least once in their life!
1. FOOD
One of the first things that come to mind when I think about Hungary is the food. There are so many delicious and flavorful dishes to try. Below are some notable dishes that are traditional in the Hungarian kitchen: Pörkölt, Gulyás, Halászlé, Meggyleves, Rakott Krumpli, Húsleves, Töltött Paprika, Lecsó, Paprikás Csirke, Töltött káposzta.
2. ESZTERGOM
An old city that already existed during Roman times and the former capital of Hungary between the 900’s and 1200’s, before King Bela IV moved the capital to Buda. The famous basilica is also the largest church in all of the country.
Esztergom is surely another good reason to visit Hungary beyond Budapest!
3. FISHERMAN’S BASTION
Few attractions have caught my eyes like the Fisherman’s Bastion and Mathias Church next to it. This place is like taken out of a fairytale, but it’s very real, and you can walk here yourself. If you come here early in the morning, you can almost imagine walking around in a scene from the Lord of the Rings!
fisherman’s bastion
4. TOKAJI ASZU
Probably the best sweet wine in the world. It’s so delicious. The first time you try it, make sure to select a good quality Tokaji Aszu with at least 5 puttonyos. Read more HERE.
5. ARCHITECTURE
Everywhere you go in Hungary, you will see old and beautiful architecture. In Budapest, you can walk around a whole day, just looking at old buildings and still haven’t seen them all. But also in other cities you will see some impressive architecture!
St Stephen’s Basilika
6. LILLAFÜRED
Famous for the natural caves and the Palace hotel in neo-Renaissance style as well as being home to the highest waterfall in Hungary.
lillafûred
7. INTERESTING AND UNIQUE FOLK TRADITION
Hungarian culture and traditions are some of the best-preserved ones in Europe. They go back to the old days, and as a tourist, it will be very interesting to attend events and festivals.
8. AGGTELEK
A world heritage site and also the longest stalactite cave system in Europe. If you like to explore underground, then you shouldn’t miss Aggtelek in Northeastern Hungary!
aggtelek – reasons to travel to hungary
9. IT’S STILL AFFORDABLE AS A TOURIST
While prices have increased in Budapest in recent years, it’s still very much affordable to visit Hungary as a tourist. You can see a lot of things, use public transportation, eat lots of food and have a good time without breaking the bank.
The same goes for hotel and spa experiences. You can stay at a luxury hotel here for at least half the price compared to cities like London or Paris.
10. BUDAPEST
One of my absolute favorite cities worldwide. There are just so many attractions, spa, neighborhoods, nature, cafés, bars and shopping that you could stay here forever and never get bored. As a tourist, you will probably only stay for a couple of days, but you’ll definitely want to come back!
Read my guide with the top things to do in Budapest
11. OPERA
While Opera originated in Italy, you will find plenty of extravaganza and quality for your money when attending the National State Opera House in Budapest. First of all, the opera house is one of the most beautiful in the whole world with fantastic acoustic. Secondly, it’s very cheap compared to La Scala, but you still get a high-class performance here!
If you haven’t been to an Opera before, then make sure to go in Budapest.
12. LÁNGOS
Probably the best snack/fast food in the whole world.
It seems like the world-conquering tour of lángos in unstoppable. More and more people hear about it, give it try and also hopefully send its word all around the world. It is not too complicated to make lángos and it is definitely worth to give it a try. (LÁNGOS RECIPE – Read more here and watch the video.)
13. HOLLÓKÖ
Another UNESCO world heritage site, and a place to visit if you want to get a cultural experience. Here you can also see the Hollokö castle.
14. BALATON SOUND AND SZIGET FESTIVAL
If you like to party with people from all over the world, you should visit Hungary when Balaton Sound or Sziget Festival is ongoing. I will let the videos talk for the festivals, and if you like it, then you know that you have to come!
[button link=”https://www.swedishnomad.com/55-reasons-to-visit-hungary/” type=”big” color=”red” newwindow=”yes”] Read more REASONS WHY EVERYONE SHOULD VISIT HUNGARY AT LEAST ONCE![/button]
The Sziget aftermovie has arrived – the Love Revolution begins – VIDEO
The time has come to re-live the best moments of the 25th Island of Freedom with this amazing 7-minute aftermovie. In 2018 a new chapter will open in the life of Sziget, when another 25 years will begin in the spirit of the “Love Revolution”.
The aftermovie is a special video by the organizers of the Sziget, showcasing not only the most unforgettable moments of the anniversary, but many Szitizens, coming from hundreds of countries spoke about what the ”Island of Freedom” meant to them. The aftermovie also features a call to the viewers to join the “Love Revolution”.
“We are all different: we come from different parts of the world, speak different languages, believe in different faiths, have different skin colors, have different interests & tastes and have different priorities. However, when we all gather together we can realize that the power of our diversity unites us and together we can change our environment.”
The Sziget community, this global family of Szitizens, from more than 100 countries now uses the power of community, the power of love, to announce the “Love Revolution”, giving space and voice to ideas and supporting issues that would make the world a better place. Tamás Kádár, CEO of Sziget, said: “The Sziget community has existed for 25 years to create a temporary “dream state” for a week that has become Europe’s center for cultural encounters. The message of the Love Revolution is a summary and confirmation of the core values that Sziget has represented for over a quarter of a century.”
The “Love Revolution” is a great gathering, a happy and peaceful celebration of the fact that we know and we believe that we can change the world together.
Sziget believes in embracing diversity, respecting human dignity and looking out for each other. All nations and individuals should be treated equally and social and individual responsibility should be encouraged and nurtured. These issues will be presented at the Island of Freedom in a variety of different forms throughout the 7-day music & arts festival, from the NGO Island to the Art of Freedom concept. Kickstarting the Love Revolution, Szitizens will be able to join a selected cause they are passionate about and receive a special gift pack during the 24-hour Szitizen Prime promotion starting on 8 November.
featured image: https://szigetfestival.com/en/
Sziget Festival: at the beginning of a new 25 years
Sziget Festival, the Island of Freedom, has ended with the total number of 452.000 Szitizens attending the 7-day non-stop music & arts festival. The 25th Sziget had two sold-out days with an amazing crowd arriving from more than 100 countries.
Tamás Kádár, CEO of Sziget Cultural Management and the person taking over the role of founder Károly Gerendai, will lead the following 25 years, promising to have vital changes happening already next year.
He also added: “The 25th festival is a turning point in Sziget’s life: an era has ended, where we built a unique and popular multicultural festival, differentiating it from other festivals with its amazing atmosphere, cultural diversity, colorful program, high level of services and spectacular visuals. Today Sziget is seen as a great leader among other festivals and because of this we also have to change, so we don’t become just one in a million.”
The 25th Sziget Festival hosted less Szitizens than last year’s record-breaking numbers, but still had 2 sold-out days and more than 450.000 visitors. Kádár thinks that the turn-out number could be a combination of many factors as the growing number of Sziget-like festivals and as he said “an unlucky line-up this year”. Regardless of these, he said that a wonderful and peaceful festival happened during the 7 days.
In 2017 Szitizens arrived from more than 100 countries, most of them came from The Netherlands, United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy, but Szitizens arrived from further parts of the world as Australia or Hong Kong to Budapest. This year several Hollywood stars were spotted at Sziget as well. On the P!NK day Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis, Justin Theroux and Luke Evans visited the island, who also came back the following days. Ashton Kutcher and Mila visited the gig of Wiz Khalifa and The Chainsmokers, where they did not only check out the concerts, but also hang out with the artists backstage. Many performers crossed the ocean only because of their Sziget concert, like Iggy Azalea, The Chainsmokers or Macklemore, who unfortunately got hospitalized after the show.
The security system of Sziget was also a success this year: the check-in system introduced last year is considered a great way to tackle security issues and many festival organizers visiting Sziget had a big interest in this new system. The Head of Security had also positive news, the statistics were 30-40% better than last year.
Sziget Festival will be held in 2018 between 8-15 August.
Fun facts
– One of the sensations this year was an Art Of Freedom project, where a mobile toilet led to a secret party.
Photo: MTI
450,000 visitors attended the 25th Sziget Festival
Around 450,000 people attended the 25. Sziget Festival, which took place between 9-15 August, the organisers said.
This is a 10 percent fall from last year’s record of 496,000 participants, Tamas Kádár, CEO of organising Sziget KFT, told MTI. Still, revenues of “several hundred million forints” are forecast, he said.
The festival was sold out on Wednesday, August 9, with American singer Pink’s concert drawing the largest audience, and on Saturday, August 12, when American rappers Macklemore and Ryan Lewis headlined the event.
Non-music events such as the midnight circus performances were also “wildly popular”, Kádár said.
The festival ran without any serious disruptions, Kádár said. The new access control system, which is based on individual identification, resulted in fewer accidents and less criminal activity, he said.
The main organiser Károly Gerendai – who, together with musician Péter “Sziámi” Müller, launched the festival in 1993 – noted that he is stepping down from active organising.
American investor Providence Equity Partners has bought a 70 percent share in Sziget Kulturális Szervezőiroda.
“The investor is taking advantage of the staff’s professional experiences and this will secure the opportunity to expand…” Gerendai said.
Featured image: MTI
ce: ZsK
12 things you didn’t know about Sziget Festival
Now that Sziget Festival has been going on for a while, we thought we’d share a few interesting facts about the most famous Hungarian festival. The following bullet points are based on a quiz by magyarorszagkul.nlcafe.hu.
- The Sziget story started in 1993, with the Diáksziget (Student Island) Festival. In 1994 it was sub-headed Eurowoodstock, and it was called Pepsi Sziget between 1996 and 2001. It is called Sziget Festival since 2002.
- In 1993, a daily ticket cost only 300 forints (~EUR 1), which sounds crazy considering that today even a cup of beer is more expensive.
- In 2011, Sziget was chosen as the best European festival at a poll organised by Yourope (European Festival Federation) and Virtual Festivals Europe.
- To ensure the peace of people living nearby the festival venue, the outdoor concerts must end by 11 pm. Concerts after that are held in special soundproof tents.
- The iconic K Bridge leading to the festival was built in 1955. It originally led to the shipyard and the headquarters of the bridge building company.
- The organisers rejected a certain performer in 2008, not knowing that she would become a huge star one year later. She was Lady Gaga, who was offered to perform by an agency for 30 thousand euros.
- The event was chosen as the Artists’ Favourite Festival at the European Festival Awards last year.
- The festival already had 419 performing bands in 2000, you can imagine how much this number has grown since then.
- When it comes to the nationality of the performers, you might think that most of them came from the USA, but the truth is that most bands and singers come from the United Kingdom.
- Speaking about nationalities, most foreign visitors come from the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, the UK and France.
- Someone once turned in 1600 euros at the lost property office.
- The lead singer of Motörhead, Lemmy Kilmister lost his passport at the festival in 1997.
Featured image: www.facebook.com/SzigetFestivalOfficial
ce: ZsK
Sziget Festival 2017: The first three days in pictures
The Sziget Festival is one of the most biggest festivals in Europe, and many famous singers and music bands arrive to Budapest for this one week long festival. The festival started on Wednesday, and we would like to show you the best momments of Sziget in pictures.
Wednesday, 9th of August:
Thursday, 10th of August:
Friday, 11th of August
Sziget festival-goers get virtual tour of Hungary, backstage tours from tourism agency
The Hungarian Tourism Agency is offering visitors to the week-long Sziget Festival, in northern Budapest, a chance to participate in virtual tours of Hungary from the comfort of beanbags and backstage tours.
With the help of VR headsets, they can experience Budapest with a bird’s eye view, as well as visiting unique natural sites around Hungary, such as the volcanic basalt rocks of Hegyestű, in the northern Balaton region, the Megyer mountain lake, in the north-east, the salt hills of Egerszalók, in northern Hungary, and the cave lakes of Tapolca in the west. Additionally, they get virtual tours of Hungary’s VOLT and Balaton Sound summer international music festivals.
The Hungarian Tourism Agency in cooperation with public radio Petőfi also offers backstage tours to Sziget-goers who want to take selfies in front of a display of large white letters spelling HelloHungary and upload it to social media sites with the hashtags #fedezdfel and #hellohungary.
The agency said it wants to show international festival-goers that there is more to Hungary than its festivals and to help visitors at home explore some hidden gems around the country.