The Independent is pleased to announce that it is the exclusive international news partner of Sziget 2025, bringing exclusive news and coverage of this year’s event.
One of Europe’s biggest festivals transforms Óbuda Island in historic Budapest into a music lover’s paradise, an ‘Island of Freedom’ featuring music, theatre, cabaret, comedy and more. Taking place 6–11 August 2025, a star-studded lineup will descend on the city for six days of joyful celebration of culture and the arts.
Amongst the headliners will be Chappell Roan and Charli XCX, both of whom have electrified the world of pop over the past year. After shooting to fame with her debut studio album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess and winning the 2025 Grammy for Best New Artist, Roan will delight festival-goers with camp flair and electrifying pop anthems. Meanwhile, as the hugely successful Brat Tour continues, Charli XCX will bring her high-energy, hyperpop set to Óbuda, showcasing tracks that combine infectious electronic beats with her signature unapologetic attitude. Dance music heavyweight Anyma is now one of the most influential names in electronic music, bringing immersive energy to Budapest after collaborations with the likes of FKA Twigs and Sevdaliza.
Sziget 2025 will also welcome Belfast rap trio KNEECAP, Stockport indie rock icons Blossoms, and revolutionary techno duo Brutalismus 3000, along with Young Marco, Sama’ Abdulhadi and Nelly Furtado.
Beyond the musical line up, attendees will take in captivating theatre performances, walkabout acts designed to surprise at every turn, and renowned circus shows that dazzle audiences year after year.
The Independent’s Music Editor, Roisin O’Connor, remarked: “Sziget is a remarkable event, creatively and passionately programmed, and we look forward to bringing its joy to our music-obsessed readers.”
Tamás Kádár, CEO of Sziget Cultural Management Ltd., commented: “This partnership with The Independent marks an important moment to fulfil a shared vision to bring Sziget, AKA ‘The Island of Freedom’, to their independent-minded audience; shining light on the diverse genres, cultural programmes and aspiring inclusivity focus at the festival. We look forward to bringing insightful reads to inspire existing and future Szitizens to join the unique magic at Sziget.”
Sziget returns in 2025 on the 6th-11th of August 2025. Early Bird tickets are currently still on sale starting at €225 which can be found at szigetfestival.com/tickets/.
