According to UEFA, the free event is open to the public and will feature live music, football activities, appearances by football legends and entertainment across four days in one of Budapest’s best-known public spaces.

The festival officially opens on Thursday morning with the arrival of the Champions League trophy, presented by former Brazilian star Cafu alongside Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony.

One of the biggest attractions of the weekend will be a Friday night performance by Sigala, who headlines the main stage programme on 29 May at 21:00 in front of the Museum of Fine Arts at Heroes’ Square.

UEFA has also confirmed that Hungarian act Vasovski Symphonic Live x Carson Coma will headline the opening concert on Thursday evening.

The governing body says visitors will be able to experience football-themed activities, live entertainment and photo opportunities with the Champions League trophy throughout the festival. Former football stars are also expected to appear during the weekend build-up to the final.

As xpatloop.com reported earlier this week, extensive security preparations are underway across central Budapest ahead of the final weekend, with thousands of police officers expected to be deployed during the celebrations.

Budapest public transport operator BKK has warned that significantly increased passenger traffic is expected around Heroes’ Square, Puskás Aréna and key transport hubs throughout the weekend.

Day-by-Day Guide

Thursday 28 May

Festival opening hours: 10:00–22:00

The festival officially opens at 10:00, with the opening ceremony scheduled for 10:30. UEFA says the Champions League trophy will arrive at Heroes’ Square accompanied by Cafu and Budapest Mayor Gergely Karácsony.

Main stage highlights include DJ Yamina at midday, freestyle football shows and fan entertainment throughout the afternoon, before the evening headline concert by Vasovski Symphonic Live x Carson Coma from 21:00–22:00.

Friday 29 May

Festival opening hours: 10:00–22:00

Friday’s programme includes freestyle football performances, DJ sessions and live broadcasts connected to the Ultimate Champions Legends Tournament taking place at Budapest Sportaréna.

The evening programme builds towards the main international concert of the festival, with DJ StadiumX performing before Sigala takes the stage from 21:00–22:00.

Saturday 30 May – Champions League Final Day

Festival opening hours: 10:00–22:00

UEFA says the festival will continue throughout final day with football activities and entertainment at Heroes’ Square ahead of the UEFA Champions League Final at Puskás Aréna later that evening.

Large crowds are expected across the city centre as supporters gather before kick-off.

Sunday 31 May

Festival opening hours: 10:00–18:00

The final day of the festival will include live DJ sets, football showcases, community matches and a closing celebration for volunteers and organisers before the event officially ends at 18:00.

Sources: UEFA Champions Festival programme, UEFA event guide, BKK travel information.

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