This change offers the chance for Sziget to strengthen its independent identity once again, focusing on its originality and core values while maintaining its place among Europe’s leading festivals.

Organisers have also confirmed that the next edition of Sziget is planned for 11–15 August 2026.

Following support from Budapest city authorities for a long-term site lease, an agreement was reached for Gerendai to take over Sziget Zrt., the company operating the festival, from Superstruct Entertainment, the London-based events group.

Gerendai explained that the company’s ownership structure will evolve over the coming weeks, as discussions continue not only with the management team but also with key subcontractors and partners who may jointly help finance the festival.

The first confirmed professional investor is Budapest Park, with whom close cooperation is planned.

Tamás Kádár, CEO of Sziget Zrt., described Gerendai’s return as a major milestone: “Sziget can continue to be one of Europe’s most significant festivals, preserving the values it has represented for more than three decades. Károly’s comeback and the professional collaboration he’s initiating will give new momentum to the festival, bringing back the creative vision that shaped its first 25 years.”

Although Gerendai stepped back from the festival scene eight years ago, he said he has kept a close eye on the industry and now returns with clear ideas about its future.

He intends to draw on the experience of the current management and staff while also inviting fresh perspectives: “Renewal depends on listening to voices from outside – professionals who can look at the festival market from different angles,” he said, noting that he particularly values the expertise Budapest Park has built up over the past decade.

András Pálffy, founder of Budapest Park, commented that their partnership represents a shared set of values: “Both brands will remain autonomous, but by combining our professional and operational strengths, we can help make the Hungarian festival scene more stable and sustainable. We want Sziget to be a lasting source of pride for Hungary – not only for its iconic past, but for its sustainable future.”

Gerendai believes Sziget’s long-term success depends on highlighting its unique identity and cultural impact, as well as deepening the synergy between the festival and Budapest itself. “I don’t want Sziget to become confined to a single age group.

While young people at home and abroad will remain our main audience, it’s also important to reconnect with older generations of festivalgoers,” he said. “Our goal is to organise a festival that everyone can enjoy, one that remains truly distinctive on the international scene.”

Finally, Kádár revealed that the 2026 festival dates — 11–15 August — can now be “written in ink,” adding that ticket sales will begin shortly with a 48-hour early-bird promotion.

The special pre-sale, offering passes at last year’s prices, will start at noon on 7 November, with advance registration open until 5 November at www.sziget.hu.

Key information about Sziget festival tickets

On November 7, a 48-hour sale begins for discounted tickets to the 2026 Sziget. The festival organizers will soon introduce a new ticket category offering half-price discounts for students. They emphasized the importance of understanding which option is more beneficial, and details follow below.

It’s essential to know that pre-registration for tickets at www.sziget.hu closes at noon on November 5.

This pre-registration provides access to the lowest prices for next year’s Sziget tickets. The 48-hour early-bird sale begins at noon on November 7 and ends at noon on November 9. Those interested in taking advantage of this offer should register quickly to avoid missing out.

During this sale, the cheapest options are the full five-day festival pass, the VIP pass, and the 21&U ticket for those under 22 years of age on the festival start date. The 21&U ticket is specifically for young people who will still be under 22 when next summer’s Sziget takes place.

A new student discount ticket will be introduced this year, tied to a valid student ID — an arrangement made possible through an agreement with Budapest’s local government.

While the technical details are still being finalized, organizers noted that the 21&U discounted ticket is most advantageous for anyone under 22, whether they are students or not, because the same ticket will be sold later at the same discounted rate. This means it will not be cheaper later on.

For those over 22 but who still hold a valid student card during the festival, it might be better to wait. Such attendees can only purchase the full, discounted ticket now, as they do not qualify for the 21&U category. However, they will have the opportunity later to buy a student discounted ticket — valid with a student ID — at the same reduced price as the current 21&U ticket.

More: 
www.sziget.hu