Balkans launch dozens of summer music festivals, art exhibitions and cultural events

A series of cultural events were announced across the Balkans for the summer of 2026. In Kotor Varoš, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the first dedicated souvenir shop opened on the new city promenade, showcasing local crafts and clothing. Sarajevo’s Galerija Manifesto will host the interactive art project "XII sastav parlamenta Kraljevine Korete" on 15 July. The Zagreb‑based choir Ivan Goran Kovačić performed at Tivat Music Festival in Montenegro, featuring a special arrangement of Ivan Brkanović’s "Bokeljsko kolo". The Croatian wind orchestra Pučko‑klinički Orkestar „Ivo Tijardović“ celebrated a historic concert in Vienna’s Musikverein representing the Franz Schubert Conservatory. Bosnian‑Herzegovinian artist Rikard Druškić opened his retrospective "Retrospektiva 15" at the JAVA gallery in Sarajevo. Trakošćan Castle in Croatia launched the interactive INSTRMNTS exhibition, letting visitors play custom‑made instruments. Mountain Music Fest released its full program for 31 July–2 August on Divčibare, featuring international and regional acts and sustainability initiatives. Tuzla Guitar Week presented solo concerts by Darko Karajić and Elvis Sivčević. Goražde’s Festival of Friendship cancelled a Bijelo Dugme concert after controversy and confirmed a revised lineup. Mostar’s "Mostarsko ljeto" substituted Dženan Lončarević with Tropico Band on 22 July. Rovinje opened a joint exhibition of painters Milan Marin and Saša Jantolek. Zemun Fest in Serbia announced its complete lineup, headlined by Baby Lasagna and 2soma, with a free Family Day opening. These announcements reflect a vibrant summer cultural calendar throughout the region.