Tens of thousands of festival-goers are expected to attend the Debrecen Campus Festival between July 16-20, which will feature more than 250 concerts this year - the organisers told MTI.

The festival, which has been enjoying unwavering popularity for 17 years, will open its doors on July 16 in the Debrecen Nagyerdő. 

This year, festival-goers will be welcomed at 21 venues, with performers including Jason Derulo; electropop duo The Chainsmokers; John Newman, who combines elements of funk, soul and modern pop; alternative rock legends The Dandy Warhols and the New York metal scene band Life Of Agony, the press announcement says.

The key local acts include Halott Pénz, Bagossy Brothers Company, ByeAlex and Slepp, Majka, Desh, Dzsúdló and Tankcsapda, as well as Ganxsta Zolee and Kartel taking to the stage in their original lineup.

According to the announcement, the lineup also includes rarely seen, unique performers. Bea Palya will take the stage; Krisztián Szűcs, the legendary Leukémia, formed in 1986, who will arrive with the 'Krézi Srác 25' concert based on his career; Zuboly, who combines a mix of hip-hop and folk music, and 30-year-old Hollywoodoo. The electronic music lineup includes more than a hundred DJs and producers.

In addition to musical programs, the festival will entertain visitors with acrobats, artists and aerialists, wall climbing and virtual experiences.

In the Civil Village, the youngest and oldest can experience the joy of play at Campus Kid programs, while the Campus Art points offer crafts and other creative activities for festival-goers. Among the new features, the Fun Zone located in the entrance zone is highlighted. The multi-station obstacle course offers fun games at every stage.

Job Street, the street of regional companies and the meeting point for job seekers and job providers, is also back. The H20 club, located on the ground floor of the Water Tower, will this time host theater performances, contemporary literary programs, and performing arts activities.

As usual, the University of Debrecen will also be presenting itself, and this summer, the Sports Diagnostic, Lifestyle and Therapy Center, or SET Center, will join the university's program as a new location, where festivalgoers will be welcomed with screenings and counseling. In addition, the university faculties and various organizational units will be presenting themselves at the usual location, in 12 wooden houses set up next to the Nagyerdei Stadium.

The festival always serves a charitable purpose, and this year they are supporting Micskó Benjámin, a five-year-old boy suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Beni's only chance is gene therapy. The cost of the treatment exceeds 1.3 billion forints.

The organizers highlight that 12 million 500 thousand forints were collected during the 2024 opening reception, which the organizers donated in full to the foundation helping Beni's recovery. The proceeds from this year's opening reception will also support the boy's life-saving treatment.

Music Lineup: A Global and Local Fusion

This year's festival boasts an impressive array of international and Hungarian artists. Headliners include global pop sensation Jason Derulo and Grammy-winning EDM duo The Chainsmokers, promising high-energy performances that will have the crowd dancing all night.  

The festival also features a diverse lineup of Hungarian talent across various genres.

Notable acts include:

• Tankcsapda

• Majka

• Quimby

• Halott Pénz

• Bagossy Brothers Company

• Beton.Hofi

• Krúbi

• Punnany Massif

• Irie Maffia

• Ganxsta Zolee és a Kartel 

The festival's lineup spans genres from hip-hop and rock to electronic and alternative music, ensuring there's something for every musical taste. 

Beyond Music: Culture, Innovation, and Community

Campus Festival is more than just a music event; it's a celebration of culture and community. Attendees can explore art installations, theatrical performances, and interactive workshops that showcase Hungary's rich cultural tapestry. 

A standout feature this year is the BMW iFACTORY stage, presented by BMW Group Plant Debrecen. This innovative stage emphasizes sustainability, powered by solar panels and constructed using recycled materials. Festival-goers can also explore BMW's latest electric vehicles and learn about the company's future-oriented manufacturing strategies.

Culinary Delights and Family-Friendly Fun

Food enthusiasts will be delighted by the festival's gastronomy village, offering a wide range of culinary options from traditional Hungarian dishes to international cuisines. The festival also caters to families, with dedicated areas and activities designed for children, making it an inclusive event for all ages.

Tickets and accommodation

Tickets are available in various categories to suit different preferences and budgets:

• Weekly Pass: 53,990 HUF

• VIP Weekly Pass: 90,990 HUF

• Weekend Pass: 37,990 HUF

• Daily Passes: 21,490 HUF per day

• Camping Options: Starting from 2,200 HUF per day
   

Special discounts are available for students and Debrecen City Card holders. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit the official website.

Why Expats Should Attend

Attending the Campus Festival offers expats a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Hungarian culture, connect with locals and fellow internationals, and enjoy a diverse range of music and cultural activities.

Whether you're looking to dance the night away, explore innovative technologies, or savor delicious foods, the festival provides a comprehensive experience that captures the essence of Hungary's vibrant community spirit.

Mark your calendars for July 16 – 20, 2025, and prepare for an unforgettable experience at the Campus Festival in Debrecen!