Discover why Electric Castle is Europe's must-attend festival this summer

In partnership with Electric Castle

Festival season is upon us and while many will be attending inner-city events across the UK, the chance to jet off to somewhere exciting and new in Europe holds an undeniable appeal. For those searching for their perfect festival escape, may we suggest the non-stop thrills of Romania’s Electric Castle.

Taking place at Bánffy Castle in the heart of Transylvania, the long-running festival is an eclectic and unique four-day extravaganza of music, mayhem and community. Here are six reasons why it’s the festival to be at this summer.

The headliners are massive

Running between July 16 and 19, this year’s bill-toppers include goth legends The Cure , currently touring in support of their latest album ‘Songs Of A Lost World’ and fresh from frontman Robert Smith ’s appearance on Olivia Rodrigo ’s latest album . Explosive punk duo Twenty One Pilots will also bring their astonishing live show to the main stage as their ‘Breach’ world tour makes its stop in Transylvania. Elsewhere, American singer-songwriter Teddy Swims ’ powerful mix of soul, country and pop is sure to make for a spine-tingling headline set. Swims released his debut album ‘I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy’ last year with the hit single ‘Lose Control’ topping the Billboard Hot 100. Finally, Chase & Status will be behind the decks for a DJ performance that’s certain to bring the rave to Romania.

You’re partying inside the grounds of a real Transylvanian castle

A true bucket-list destination, Electric Castle offers far more than just music. The grounds of the 16th century fortress are transformed into a vibrant utopia where up to 50,000 gather every day to party against a truly magical backdrop. Historic courtyards become dancefloors, castle grounds morph into art spaces and centuries of history collide with cutting edge modern music. It’s a place where the past and future exist side by side.  Whether you’re catching a sunset gig beneath ancient stone walls or wandering through illuminated installations after midnight, the setting creates an atmosphere that’s impossible to replicate elsewhere. It’s a truly unbeatable backdrop to see both stadium-sized bands and the world’s hottest DJs perform live.

It’s a 24 hour rave

While most British festivals come to a close when the headliners finish, there are 10 stages at Electric Castle with some promising 24-hour good vibes. The non-stop party atmosphere will be provided by a massive line-up of DJs and electronic artists including the mesmerising Brazilian house DJ Mochakk, drum n’ bass legend Wilkinson, dubstep heroes Skream & Benga plus techno visionary ANNA, melodic house favourite Kölsch, and legendary duo Deep Dish. Elsewhere, amapiano will be represented by DJs Skyla Tylaa and Rosey Gold while SG Lewis is sure to bring a disco glamour to proceedings.

The line-up is as eclectic as the crowds

The Electric Castle line-up goes deep. In addition to the all-star headliners there will also be appearances from anthemic indie rock favourites Nothing But Thieves , singer-songwriter to the stars LP, Wet Leg making their first live appearance in Romania, and cult icons Yung Lean and Bladee performing an eagerly-anticipated joint set. Irish rap collective Kneecap will bring their riotous live show to the festival while British punk-poets Sleaford Mods are sure to deliver a raucous showing. Hollywood icon Keanu Reeves will also be in attendance with his band Dogstar , while Irish shoegaze band Just Mustard will be on the bill alongside Balu Brigada, Maverick Sabre, Honeyglaze, and many more. It’s a great line-up of boundary-pushing superstars and the most exciting new talent around.

Beyond the music, Electric Castle is a truly immersive experience

If you fancy a break from the main stages and dance tents, Electric Castle has got you covered. There are hot air balloon rides and lakeside chill-out spots on offer alongside film screenings, fantastic food and thought-provoking EC Talks. For one weekend, the castle grounds transform into a vibrant cultural playground. Fans can explore forest hideaways, creative installations, fashion spaces, sports activities and countless other opportunities between live sets. Electric Castle comes with a setting that’s impossible to replicate elsewhere.

It’s an award-winning event

It’s not just us that rates Electric Castle. Last year the event was named International Festival Of The Year at the 20th edition of the UK Festival Awards. It triumphed over a highly competitive shortlist of major global contenders including Afro Nation (Portugal), Beyond The Valley (Australia), Open’er Festival (Poland), Sziget Festival (Hungary), and Way Out West (Sweden). “Turns out thousands of you screaming in a field does get international recognition. Electric Castle is the International Festival of the Year at the UK Festival Awards,” organisers said after winning.

Electric Castle has just announced over 200 new acts, check out the full line-up here .

The post Six reasons Electric Castle is this summer’s hottest European festival appeared first on NME .

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