Exit Festival Moves Out of Serbia: End of an Era or Start of New Drama?
If you thought the Exit Festival would stay forever on the Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad, it’s time to wake up! After 25 years, one of Europe’s biggest and most beloved music festivals, a symbol of freedom, youthful spirit, and unity, is packing its bags and moving… to Egypt! Yes, you read that right – the festival that has brought hundreds of millions of euros in tourism revenue to Serbia for decades will now be held in front of the pyramids.
How did this shocking move happen?
Organizers confirmed they signed an agreement with an Egyptian company to organize the festival next year. The official presentation of the project will take place after this year’s 25th anniversary of Exit, starting July 13 in Novi Sad. But why is the festival moving? The answer is simple but painful – pressure from authorities due to the festival’s public stance and support for student protests.
Freedom of speech under pressure
Exit has always been more than a festival. Born as a student movement for peace and freedom, it became a global symbol of tolerance, creativity, and activism. However, when it publicly supported students in their fight for a free and just society in Serbia last year, the festival faced huge financial and political pressures. Public funding was completely cut off, and the country’s economic conditions make it impossible to hold a festival of this caliber without government support.
The last dance on Petrovaradin Fortress?
Organizers clearly stated that this year’s jubilee edition will be the last held in Serbia. Although they know they are welcome worldwide, they owe their audience a “last dance” on the fortress that became their home. The festival team is determined to make this Exit the most emotional and unforgettable yet, but everyone knows this is the end of an era.
What does this mean for Serbia and the region?
Exit Festival was one of the most important cultural events in the region, bringing together people from all over the world. It brought not only music but also tourism, economic benefits, and international prestige. Its departure is a clear signal that freedom of expression and support for youth in Serbia are not at a satisfactory level. As the festival moves to Egypt, the question remains – what will Serbia lose, and what will it gain?
Exit camp and the unforgettable vibe
Although the festival is moving, this year the Exit camp at Novi Sad’s Štrand beach is buzzing with fans from all over the world. People are thrilled with the lineup, including Italian artist Gala, legendary Boomtown Rats with Bob Geldof, punk legends Sex Pistols, Dutch DJ Tiësto, The Prodigy, and many more. The atmosphere is wild, and camping by the river gives a special summer vibe. Many visitors say it’s not their first time at the festival and they can’t wait to enjoy the music and the company.
Is this the end or just a new beginning?
As Exit Festival closes its doors in Serbia, the question arises what will happen to freedom of expression and cultural events in the country. Will new festivals emerge to take Exit’s place? Or will the youth be pressured and silenced? One thing is certain – Exit was and remains a symbol of the fight for freedom and unity. And now, as it moves to Egypt, we are left wondering – is this the end of a legend or just the start of a new drama?
Conclusion
Exit Festival was much more than a music event. It was a movement, a voice of youth, and a symbol of freedom. Its departure from Serbia is a clear sign that things in the country are not as we would like them to be. But hey, maybe the pyramids will bring new magic! Or maybe it will be just another proof that freedom in Serbia is slowly losing the battle.
If you’ve been to Exit before or plan to go this year, enjoy the last edition in Novi Sad. And if you have a crazy Exit story or think this is the end of the world, feel free to drop a comment below – let’s laugh, cry, or rant together! Who knows, maybe your story will be the reason Exit shines again in Serbia one day.
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