Exit Festival, one of Europe’s biggest music events, has announced its decision to pull out of Serbia after this year’s edition, citing “undemocratic pressures” and government retaliation over its support for student-led protests.
The festival, scheduled to take place from 10–13 July 2025 at Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad, will mark its 25th and final edition in Serbia.
Festival Support for Student Protests Sparks Political Fallout
Organizers say that after publicly supporting anti-corruption protests led by students—especially after a deadly train station collapse in Novi Sad in 2024—state funding was withdrawn, and private sponsors were pressured to pull out.
“Freedom has no price,” said Exit’s founder, Dusan Kovacevic, in an emotional farewell statement. He emphasized that the festival’s roots in activism—dating back to the anti-Milosevic movement in 2000—made it morally necessary to back the youth protests.
The support ranged from logistics like providing food and shelter to protesters to using Exit’s social media channels to amplify their message. In return, Exit faced what it called a “campaign of silent suppression.”
Serbian Officials Deny Political Motive
Provincial culture authorities denied any political motivation behind the funding cuts, citing instead “budget constraints”. However, festival insiders and civil society leaders argue that the withdrawal of multiple sponsors in a coordinated manner points to political pressure.
Exit’s Cultural Legacy in Serbia
Founded in 2000, Exit has grown to attract over 200,000 festivalgoers annually, with headline acts like Arctic Monkeys, The White Stripes, and The Cure. It played a vital role in reviving Serbia’s post-war image globally.
This year’s lineup includes The Prodigy, DJ Snake, and the newly formed Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter. Its diverse themes—like “Loud and Queer” and “Stop Human Trafficking”—reflect the festival’s commitment to activism.
“Exit has been a cultural revolution, not just a music festival,” says Belgrade-based music producer Daryl Fidelak. “It put Serbia on the global cultural map.”
What’s Next for Exit?
While Exit will go ahead in Novi Sad this July, Kovacevic confirmed it will be the last. The team is reportedly exploring relocation options in other European countries, though no official destination has been announced yet.
This marks a symbolic moment in Serbia’s political and cultural landscape, where state influence over civil expression appears to be tightening, critics say Exit Festival.
Timeline of Events
- Nov 2024: Deadly canopy collapse at Novi Sad station kills 16
- Dec 2024 – Apr 2025: Student protests erupt; Exit publicly supports them
- May 2025: Sponsors pull out; state funding withdrawn
- June 2025: Exit announces its departure after 25 years
Key Takeaways:
- Exit Festival to leave Serbia after July 2025 event
- Organizers cite political retaliation over support for student protests
- State denies claims, citing financial constraints
- Exit’s legacy includes global recognition and cultural transformation
