EXIT Festival in Ulcinj and Budva this year
By implementing this project, Montenegro aims to position itself as one of the leaders in event tourism in Europe, a sector that already generates more than 100 billion euros annually worldwide - the Government stated
The Government of Montenegro has adopted a decision to support international summer music festivals for 2026, creating the conditions for Montenegro to become the new home of the EXIT festival, which will be held in Ulcinj and Budva.
According to the information reviewed today by Government members, Montenegro has a unique opportunity to make a significant leap in the segment of international event tourism during the 2026 summer season.
- The organization of two major international music events under the joint name „EXIT to Montenegro“ in Ulcinj in the first half of July and the Sea Dance festival in Budva at the end of August has the potential to generate measurable economic benefits for the tourism industry and the broader economy, along with a very strong global promotional effect - the statement says.
According to estimates, the two events together are expected to generate at least 210,000 overnight stays and more than 40 million euros in direct tourism spending.
The proposed public support amounts to 1.5 million euros from the state budget, with additional support from the municipalities of Budva and Ulcinj.
- By implementing this project, Montenegro aims to position itself as one of the leaders in event tourism in Europe, a sector that already generates more than 100 billion euros annually worldwide - the Government stated.
EXIT is one of the most recognizable festival brands in the world, with a well-established international reputation, having generated hundreds of millions of euros in local tourism spending to date.
- Among its most important international recognitions are three Best Major Festival titles at the UK and European Festival Awards, the most prestigious European festival competitions, as well as the award for Best Event Organization in Europe in 2025 - the Government highlighted.
They noted that research shows 83 percent of surveyed visitors stated the festival was their sole reason for visiting the destination, confirming a direct link between festival presence and tourism demand.
In that sense, the EXIT platform represents a proven strong generator of international tourism demand, media visibility, and spending in the host destination, as it attracts visitors from more than 100 countries. By implementing this project, Montenegro will not only gain major international music events, but also a strong boost to the strategic development of creative industries, aimed at attracting leading global digital nomads and content creators, as well as retaining young talent in the country - the Government stated.
They added that, given Montenegro is marking 20 years since the restoration of its independence, within the celebration program the Government will provide additional support to the most significant domestic festivals traditionally held in Montenegro.