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EXIT Festival 2025: Looking ahead to the momentous 25th anniversary edition

In partnership with EXIT Festival

By Dale Fox

A festival stage showing fireworks and dancing people
EXIT Festival opening ceremony (Image: Provided)

With EXIT Festival just wrapping up yet another great edition, anticipation is already building for the 2025 event, which marks its momentous 25th year. The 2024 festival saw over 210,000 attendees from more than 80 countries, setting the stage for an even grander celebration in 2025.

Set for 10-13 July 2025 at the historic Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad, Serbia, EXIT Festival 2025 is poised to showcase its evolution from a student movement to a globally renowned music event.

A return to roots with ‘State of EXIT’

The 2025 edition will revisit the festival’s origins under the theme “State of EXIT”, echoing its founding ethos as a catalyst for democracy and freedom in Serbia and the Balkans. This theme promises to blend the event’s activist roots with its current status as a premier music destination.

Tom Morello onstage at EXIT Festival 2024
“EXIT gathers revolutionaries both in the audience and on stage” Tom Morello said at EXIT 2024 (Image: Provided)

As Tom Morello stated at EXIT 2024: “EXIT gathers revolutionaries both in the audience and on stage.” This spirit is expected to be amplified in the 25th-anniversary edition, revitalising and solidifying the State of EXIT – an artistic state of mind created together with millions of people who have passed through the gates of the Petrovaradin Fortress over the past 24 years.

EXIT Festival 2025 lineup

Even though the excitement for the 25th edition of EXIT is over the roof, we’re yet to discover the names that will be headlining the quarter of the century celebration. Traditionally, the first wave of performers is announced in December, but we’re excited for the possibility of an early sneak peek this year.

The 2024 festival featured pop icons Black Eyed Peas, Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello, trap star Gucci Mane, and legendary DJ Carl Cox.

Aerial view of a busy festival stage at dusk
Dance Arena (Image: Provided)

Electronic music fans should watch for announcements regarding the famous mts Dance Arena, which hosted acts like Bonobo, Black Coffee and Carl Cox in 2024. The eclectic Visa Fusion Stage and the Tesla Universe Stage are also likely to feature a mix of established and emerging artists across various genres.

Cultural phenomenon amid a unique setting

EXIT Festival has always transcended entertainment, championing social responsibility alongside musical excellence. The 25th anniversary edition is expected to amplify this aspect, potentially featuring special initiatives that highlight the festival’s commitment to positive social impact.

 View of the Petrovaradin Fortress at dusk
EXIT Festival is held at the stunning Petrovaradin Fortess (Image: Provided)

Held at the 17th century Petrovaradin Fortress overlooking the Danube River, EXIT offers a unique festival experience. With over 40 stages and zones spread across the fortress, the event promises an unforgettable atmosphere amid historical surroundings.

As EXIT prepares to celebrate its quarter-century milestone, fans can look forward to an event that honours its revolutionary past while pushing the boundaries of what a music festival can be. Indeed, with its unique blend of music, activism, and unforgettable experiences, EXIT Festival 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark event that we can’t wait to see.

Check out the EXIT Festival YouTube channel to see daily recaps of this year’s festival, as well as highlights including Carl Cox’s full EXIT set.