Announced at a press conference in Budapest, the changes reflect a response to evolving audience demands, shifting cultural habits, and a long-term strategy to reinforce Sziget’s standing among the top festivals worldwide.
“We’re opening a new chapter for Sziget, but our core mission remains unchanged: creating lasting memories through a wide variety of programs and a special atmosphere,” said Festival Director Tamás Kádár. “We’ve decided to take a major step forward based on a multi-year strategy.”
New Districts and Refreshed Layout
One of the most striking updates is the reimagining of Sziget as a city with themed “districts,” offering genre-focused, immersive experiences. Among them is the Delta District, a nightlife hub that includes the redesigned Yettel Colosseum, the all-new Bolt Night Stage (formerly Arena), and The Club by Don Julio. The goal: non-stop beats from dusk till dawn.
The Delta District will host electronic music giants including Armin Van Buuren, Don Diablo, Vini Vici, Miss Monique, and The Blessed Madonna. Meanwhile, The Club by Don Julio offers a more intimate underground club experience.
Another highlight is the introduction of Szoho — a multicultural, arts-driven district named in homage to Soho neighborhoods worldwide. “A multicultural melting pot where music, street culture, and creativity meet,” said Márk Bóna, Booking Manager. Szoho includes two central stages — The Buzz, featuring indie, alt-pop, and world music, and dropYard, dedicated to hip-hop, DnB, and reggaeton. Other Szoho venues include The Cypher, focused on street culture and freestyle, and The Joker, blending comedy, board games, and slam poetry.
Musical Headliners and Highlights
This year’s Main Stage welcomes headliners like A$AP Rocky, Post Malone, Shawn Mendes, Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, and Anyma. Other performers include Nelly Furtado, FKA Twigs, Michael Kiwanuka, Little Simz, and The Last Dinner Party. For the first time, a K-pop act — Kiss Of Life — joins the lineup.
Hungarian artists will also take the spotlight. Pogány Induló will perform alongside Parno Graszt, and Дeva will deliver her most ambitious show to date.
At the Revolut Stage, highlights include Empire of the Sun, Justice, Papa Roach, Caribou, Blossoms, and Refused — whose set is part of their farewell tour. Hungarian performers such as Krúbi, Co Lee, and Elefánt also return.
More Than Music
Sziget’s artistic program is also expanding under the leadership of new Head of Arts and Experiential Programs Jenna Jalonen. The Finnish-Hungarian choreographer aims to build on the legacy of her predecessor while integrating innovative, cross-genre performances.
“Performing arts are born from the blending of various artistic disciplines… at Paradox, these genres merge and offer the audience unforgettable experiences,” Jalonen said. Paradox, a venue focused on illusion and hybrid art, will host international performers alongside traveling fairground magic.
Magic Mirror also returns with a new address and a revamped lineup, including all-female troupe YUCK Circus and Dutch collective Lady Joker. The Cirque du Sziget will feature acts like Japanese performance “Yoah,” Canadian group The 7 Fingers with Duel Reality, and a Hungarian debut from OneTwoMany Collective.
Sziget Moments and Theater
A new initiative called “Sziget Moments” will present 10-minute performances on the Main Stage during artist changeovers, including the return of the Superar children’s choir. The Sziget Theater and Dance venue will host standout shows such as Rave Lucid by Mazel Freten and La Confluencia by Estévez/Paños, blending flamenco with diverse cultural elements.
The Giant Street Theatre will feature aerial ballet group Sylphes and returning Spanish troupe Troula, whose performance uses a beehive metaphor to explore climate themes with music, puppets, and pyrotechnics.
Hospitality, Food and Sustainability
Beer prices will remain unchanged this year despite inflation. “It’s time to firmly state that Sziget is not an expensive festival,” said Kádár. “Together with Dreher, we’ve also managed to ensure that beer prices stay the same.”
Catering will prioritize variety and accessibility, with an emphasis on vegetarian, vegan, and allergen-free options. Vendors are required to offer at least one wallet-friendly dish, and sustainability is central: no plastic bags, only compostable materials, and a push for low-carbon cooking solutions.
Sziget is also continuing its collaboration with Diageo’s DRINKiQ campaign to promote responsible drinking, offering water stations, educational tools, and reusable cups.
Szitizen Care and Inclusivity
“Szitizen Care,” introduced last year, returns with expanded wellness spaces and mental health support. “We want to reinforce the message that the Island of Freedom is a place where everyone can feel safe and welcome,” said Kádár. The initiative provides assistance for a range of needs — from lost passports to emotional support — and reflects a growing focus on inclusion.
Accommodation: Sziget Ville Premium
Festival-goers can once again enjoy “glamping” at Sziget Ville Premium. Guests can choose from comfort tents to luxury cabins and enjoy yoga, saunas, aromatherapy, and massages in the on-site Wellness Center.
Pushing Sustainability Further
Sziget continues to lead the way on festival sustainability. A key initiative this year is the “Don’t-Leave-Your-Tent Deposit Ticket” aimed at reducing tent waste. Visitors receive a deposit when they arrive with a tent and get it back if they leave with it. Leftover tents are either donated or recycled into merchandise.
Sziget is certified by the Greener Future sustainability audit and participates in the Green Deal Circular Festivals network. Fewer combustion engine vehicles and a reduced environmental footprint are top goals in 2025.
With this wide-ranging revamp, Sziget aims to offer a more immersive, inclusive, and eco-conscious experience while staying true to its free-spirited roots — making 2025 a landmark edition of the Island of Freedom.
