In Serbia, summer isn’t measured just in degrees – it’s measured in the sounds of music, the aroma of traditional food, the swirl of folk costumes, the sparkle of beer foam, and the smiles of people from around the world. Serbia transforms into one giant open-air stage during the summer, hosting festivals and events that blend modern energy with deep-rooted tradition, urban flair with village charm.
Whether you’re a fan of electronic music, rock, trumpets, folklore, beer, rivers, or lively local fairs, Serbia has a summer event you’ll want to return to year after year.
🌍 EXIT Festival – Novi Sad Becomes the World’s Music Capital
When: July
Where: Petrovaradin Fortress, Novi Sad
Why go:
EXIT is Serbia’s most iconic festival and one of the most respected in Europe. Held at the majestic Petrovaradin Fortress, it has welcomed stars like David Guetta, The Prodigy, Wu-Tang Clan, and Arctic Monkeys. With over 40 stages, thousands of visitors, and unforgettable energy – EXIT is a musical and visual spectacle.
🎺 Guča – The Soul of Serbia in a Trumpet
When: August
Where: Guča, Dragačevo
Why go:
The Guča Trumpet Festival is pure emotion. A wild celebration of Serbian spirit and music, where brass bands battle for prestige and joy overflows in every street. Dance, sing, and raise a toast with locals and visitors alike.
🎷 Nišville – Balkan Jazz at Its Best
When: August
Where: Niš Fortress, Niš
Why go:
Nišville is the most important jazz festival in the region. Its mix of classic jazz, funk, soul, and ethno rhythms, set against the ancient walls of Niš Fortress, creates a truly unique experience. The festival also includes film and theater programs.
🏰 BELEF – Summer Theater Under the Stars
When: July–August
Where: Belgrade (Kalemegdan, Sava Center, open-air venues)
Why go:
The Belgrade Summer Festival brings together contemporary performing arts, music, and dance in some of the city’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. A perfect way to experience artistic Belgrade under warm summer skies.
🪵 Zlakusa Festival – Pottery, Craft, and Flavor
When: August
Where: Zlakusa, near Užice
Why go:
This unique festival celebrates traditional pottery and folk craftsmanship. Enjoy handmade art and food cooked in clay pots, along with traditional music and dance in a truly authentic Serbian village atmosphere.
💃🎶 Vrnjačka Banja – Carnival Colors and Love Fest Beats
When: July
Where: Vrnjačka Banja
Why go:
Serbia’s favorite spa town turns into a summer hotspot! First with the Vrnjački Carnival, a vibrant parade full of costumes, masks, and street performances, and then with Love Fest, a top-tier electronic music festival drawing DJs and fans from across Europe. One town, two unforgettable events.
🌊🚣♂️ Drina Regatta – River Adventure and Party on the Shore
When: Third week of July
Where: Bajina Bašta, Drina River
Why go:
Europe’s largest river regatta gathers thousands on handmade rafts. It’s a floating party filled with laughter, swimming, music, and ends with live concerts and a riverside sunset you’ll never forget.
🍺 Belgrade Beer Fest – Cheers to Music and Good Times
When: August
Where: Belgrade, Ušće
Why go:
Beer Fest offers dozens of beer brands, top regional music acts, and one giant urban party – all with free entry. It’s a great way to mingle, dance, and beat the summer heat with a cold one.
🎸 Gitarijada – Rock Legends and Rising Stars in Zaječar
When: Late July / Early August
Where: Zaječar
Why go:
The oldest rock festival in the Balkans is still going strong. Gitarijada is a gathering of new bands and rock legends, under the stars of eastern Serbia. Pure rock ‘n’ roll soul with a loyal fanbase.
🌾🧑🌾 Scythe Festival on Rajac (Kosidba na Rajcu) – Mowing for the Soul
When: July
Where: Rajac, near Negotin
Why go:
Step into a living postcard of Serbian village life! Dressed in traditional costumes, scythe-wielding competitors show off their skill while visitors enjoy homemade food, folk music, and rolling green hills. A celebration of tradition, hard work, and community.
🐴🎠 Traditional Fairs – Serbia’s Colorful Heritage
When: Throughout the summer
Where: Across Serbia – from Sombor and Šabac to Pirot and Kuršumlija
Why go:
Local fairs are where you’ll feel the true heart of Serbia. Carousels, tamburitza music, roštilj, and dancing under the stars. Each fair is unique, but all are bursting with tradition, joy, and togetherness.
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