Exit Festival – Serbia 2026

Background & History

Exit Festival, founded in 2000 by a group of Novi Sad students as a political movement advocating for democracy, freedom, and anti-war sentiments in post-Milošević Serbia, has evolved into one of Europe’s most iconic electronic and multi-genre music festivals. Initially held on the University of Novi Sad campus as a 100-day protest against authoritarianism, it transitioned to the historic Petrovaradin Fortress in 2001, where it has remained, symbolizing resilience and cultural revival in the Balkans. The festival’s name derives from “exit out of ten years of Milo’s tyranny,” reflecting its origins in the democratic revolution that ousted Slobodan Milošević. Over 25 years, Exit has grown from a niche event with 3,000 attendees to a global phenomenon, drawing over 200,000 visitors from 60 countries annually by 2025, generating millions in tourism revenue for Serbia.

Recognized as the Best Major European Festival by the European Festivals Association multiple times (2007, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2023), Exit has hosted over 2,000 artists, including David Guetta, The Prodigy, Carl Cox, Nina Kraviz, and Paul Van Dyk, across genres like EDM, techno, house, rock, hip-hop, and reggae. Its cultural significance lies in promoting tolerance, diversity, and youth activism, with initiatives like the Exit Foundation supporting human rights and environmental causes. The 2025 edition (July 10–13) marks its final year in Serbia due to political pressures and censorship, as announced by CEO Dušan Kovačević in June 2025, amid conflicts with authorities over funding cuts and sponsor withdrawals following the festival’s support for student protests. For 2026, Exit plans a “global tour,” potentially including events in Egypt (Great Pyramid of Giza, October 2026) and other locations, though details remain TBD. This shift underscores Exit’s commitment to artistic freedom while preserving its Balkan roots.

Event Highlights

• Main Activities and Performances: Exit 2026 will feature over 1,000 artists across more than 40 stages and zones within Petrovaradin Fortress, blending electronic dance music (EDM), techno, house, and alternative genres. While the full lineup is yet to be announced, expect headliners similar to past editions like Calvin Harris, Tiësto, and Black Eyed Peas, alongside rising stars in Drum & Bass Arena, mts Dance Arena, and No Sleep Novi Sad stage.
• Performances span four days, with sunrise sets at the Main Stage overlooking the Danube, immersive techno in underground tunnels, and hip-hop/rock in fortress courtyards. Additional activities include art installations, film screenings, and the Exit Art Collective’s visual projections, creating a 24/7 party atmosphere.
• Special Traditions or Features: The festival opens with the “Exit Adventure,” a guided exploration of the fortress’s hidden tunnels and clock tower (Serbia’s largest, running backwards). The “State of Exit” closing ceremony features a massive fireworks display and communal chant, symbolizing unity. Sustainability efforts include the Green Deal initiative with zero-waste zones, solar-powered stages, and partnerships with NGOs for river cleanups. The Exit Foundation hosts talks on human rights and activism, continuing the festival’s activist heritage. VIP perks include fast-track entry and exclusive lounges, while the mts Republic zone offers cultural workshops and street food markets.
• Unique Attractions for Visitors: Petrovaradin Fortress, dubbed the “Gibraltar of the Danube,” serves as a living labyrinth with 16 km of underground tunnels for secret raves, medieval walls for acoustic sets, and panoramic Danube views.
• Attendees discover “mystery stages” via clues in the app, fostering exploration. The festival’s app provides real-time schedules, lost-and-found, and AR filters for selfies. Eco-friendly features like reusable cups and bike rentals promote green fun. Past editions featured drone shows and silent discos; 2026 may include special activations for the global tour transition, blending Serbian heritage with international flair.

Date & Duration

• Dates: July 9 – July 12, 2026 (tentative, based on historical mid-July patterns; official announcement expected early 2026 via exitfest.org, as 2025 is the last in Serbia).
• Duration: 4 days.

Venue / Location

Exit Festival 2026 will take place at Petrovaradin Fortress, a UNESCO-listed 17th-century military complex spanning 112 hectares across the Danube River in Novi Sad, Serbia. Built between 1692 and 1780 by the Habsburgs as a defense against Ottoman invasions, the fortress features intricate tunnels, bastions, and the iconic backwards clock tower (hands reverse to appear larger from the river).

Over 40 stages are hidden in its walls, including the Main Stage on the upper plateau, mts Dance Arena in underground vaults, and beach zones along the Danube. The site’s medieval architecture contrasts with modern LED installations, creating an immersive labyrinth. Accessibility includes ramps and shuttles, though some tunnels are uneven. Gates open at noon daily, with after-parties until dawn.

• Google Maps Address: Petrovaradin Fortress, Tvrdjava, 21131 Petrovaradin, Novi Sad, Serbia

Ticket Information

• How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets are sold exclusively through the official website (exitfest.org) and authorized retailers like Eventim and McCann Tickets. Pre-sale for 2026 expected to start in late 2025, with phases for 4-day passes first. Digital e-tickets via app or email; no postal option.
• Resale through the official platform only to prevent fraud. Children under 7 free (with adult); under 17 require adult accompaniment. Unauthorized tickets void entry. Packages include camping/VIP bundles.
• Admission Type and Pricing: Admission is paid. Based on 2025 pricing (expected similar for 2026; 1 EUR ≈ 1.10 USD as of September 2025), estimated prices in USD:
  • 4-Day Pass: $140–$165 (~€127–€150)
  • 1-Day Pass: $55–$66 (~€50–€60)
  • VIP 4-Day Pass: $220–$275 (~€200–€250; includes fast-track, lounges, premium bars)
  • Children under 7: Free (with adult ticket; ID required)
  • Children 7–17: Same as adult, but accompanied
  • Camping Add-On (4 nights): $33–$44 (~€30–€40)
  • Glamping: $110–$165 (~€100–€150) Prices include fees; dynamic pricing may apply. No refunds, but transfers via official resale.
• Minimum and Maximum Ticket Price Range: The minimum ticket price is $0 for children under 7 (free with adult). The maximum is $275 for VIP 4-Day Pass, excluding camping (~$44) or glamping (~$150).
• Special Seating or VIP Options: VIP offers dedicated viewing platforms near Main Stage, separate entrances, luxury restrooms, and exclusive bars. No general seating; festival-style standing/GA. Accessibility for disabled includes PMR zones (contact answerme@exitfest.org with certificate). Family zones for under-17s with adults.

Contact Information

• Email: answerme@exitfest.org (general inquiries); press@exitfest.org (media/accreditation); tickets@exitfest.org (ticketing support).
• Phone: +381 21 472 4000 (festival office, English/Serbian, weekdays 10 AM–6 PM).
• Website: https://www.exitfest.org/en
• Social Media: @exitfestival (Instagram/Facebook), @EXITfestival (X).
• Key Staff: Dušan Kovačević (CEO and Founder), Nebojša Jovanović (Programming Director).
• Press/Volunteers: Press section on site for accreditation; volunteers via volunteer@exitfest.org (applications open early 2026, perks include free entry/merch).
• Note: Response time ~24–48 hours. English/Serbian support; app for real-time chat.

Cultural Experience

Exit Festival celebrates Serbia’s vibrant youth culture and Balkan heritage, blending electronic music with activism in the historic Petrovaradin Fortress. Attendees immerse in a multi-genre soundscape—from pulsating techno in tunnels to reggae on riverside beaches—reflecting Novi Sad’s diverse scene as European Capital of Culture 2022. Fashion mixes festival chic (neon, boho) with Serbian elements like embroidered vests, creating a global party vibe. The fortress’s tunnels host secret raves, evoking underground resistance history.

Traditions include the “Clockwork Orange” mystery stage hunts and Danube swims post-sets. The Exit Foundation promotes tolerance via human rights booths and anti-discrimination workshops. Visitors engage in local customs like rakija toasts and pljeskavica feasts, fostering cross-cultural bonds. With 200,000+ from 60 countries, Exit embodies unity, though 2026’s global tour may shift focus to international activism. Family-friendly zones ensure inclusivity, with under-7s free.

Food & Drinks

Exit’s food scene highlights Serbian and international street eats, with sustainable sourcing and diverse options across 40+ zones. Must-try specialties include:

• Ćevapi: Grilled minced meat sausages in somun bread with onions (~$4–$6 USD).
• Pljeskavica: Spicy beef patty burger with ajvar relish (~$5–$7 USD).
• Burek: Flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat (~$3–$5 USD).
• Rakija: Local fruit brandy shots (~$2–$4 USD).
• Vegan Ćevapi: Plant-based alternatives (~$4–$6 USD). Stands use biodegradable packaging; vegetarian/vegan options at 70% of vendors. Bars serve local beers like Jelen (~$3 USD) and cocktails. Cashless payments via app; hydration stations free. Eco-initiatives include no single-use plastics.

Getting There

• By Air: Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG), 90 km away (~1.5 hours drive), is the main hub. Taxis (~$50–$70 USD) or shuttles (~$20–$30 USD, book via exitfest.org) to Novi Sad. Budget flights from Europe.
• By Public Transport: Trains from Belgrade to Novi Sad (1.5 hours, ~$5–$10 USD); buses from Budapest/Zagreb (~3–5 hours, ~$15–$25 USD). Festival shuttles from Novi Sad station to fortress (~$5 USD).
• By Car: From Belgrade via E75 (1 hour). Parking at fortress lots (~$10–$15 USD/day); carpool via app. Tunnels may cause traffic; arrive early.
• By Bike: Danube bike path to Petrovaradin; free parking. Rentals in Novi Sad (~$10/day).
• Accessibility: Wheelchair shuttles and paths; contact for PMR transport.

Accommodation Options

Exit is camping-centric, with options for all:

• Camping: Included in passes; sites across Danube beaches and fortress fields (~$0 extra; tents provided or bring own). Facilities: showers, toilets, security.
• Glamping: Luxury tents/yurts (~$110–$165 USD; beds, power, VIP access).
• Hostels: In Novi Sad, Garni Hotel Centar (~$30–$50/night) or Backpackers Hostel (~$20–$40/night), 10-min walk to bridge.
• Hotels: Petrovaradin Hotel (~$80–$120/night, fortress views) or Novi Sad’s Garni Veliki (~$60–$100/night).
• Airbnb: Apartments near Danube (~$50–$150/night).
• Booking Tip: Book via exitfest.org for packages; camping fills fast. Shuttles for off-site.