The festival, which takes place in the historic Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad and was attended by 200,000 visitors last year, has roots in the pro-democracy movement that helped end Slobodan Milosevic's rule. Organizers have consistently championed various social issues, with this year’s theme being shaped in response to student activism following last November’s tragic accident at a local railway station.
In a statement regarding the festival’s future, founder Dusan Kovacevic expressed that the sacrifices made in the name of freedom outweigh financial concerns. While the festival plans for its last edition in Serbia, questions remain about its potential relocation or new future as it bids farewell to a country that has played a significant role in its identity.
With a legacy that includes performances by major acts like The White Stripes and Arctic Monkeys, Exit Festival has significantly influenced Serbia’s cultural landscape, cultivating an inclusive music scene and attracting international attention. As tensions continue between art and government policies, the festival's departure marks a poignant moment in Serbia's artistic journey.
In a statement regarding the festival’s future, founder Dusan Kovacevic expressed that the sacrifices made in the name of freedom outweigh financial concerns. While the festival plans for its last edition in Serbia, questions remain about its potential relocation or new future as it bids farewell to a country that has played a significant role in its identity.
With a legacy that includes performances by major acts like The White Stripes and Arctic Monkeys, Exit Festival has significantly influenced Serbia’s cultural landscape, cultivating an inclusive music scene and attracting international attention. As tensions continue between art and government policies, the festival's departure marks a poignant moment in Serbia's artistic journey.
