The most famous festival in Serbia is now one of the largest in Europe, and it's a far way from the 'local' label it once wore. During this weekend in July, Petrovaradin Fortress transforms into the country's principal party zone, as many of the world's biggest music artists descend on Novi Sad to entertain over 200,000 revelers. The festival began as a protest against the Slobodan Milošević dictatorship, but its political roots have been buried behind the weight of pop music and revelry.

Visitors have also had the opportunity to watch artists from the former Yugoslavia, such as Darko Rundek and the KUD Idijoti band, as well as local acts like Rambo Amadeus, Partibrejkersi, Darkvud dub, Obojeni program… For more than a decade, the EXIT festival has brought together music lovers from all over the world. It has become an icon of Serbia, with a wonderful festival atmosphere and lots of fun.

When: in June
Where: Petrovaradin Fortress, Novi Sad

Belgrade Beer Fest has grown to become the country's largest beer festival since its inception in 2003. It is customarily held at Ušće (the confluence of two rivers, the Sava and Danube). The festival was named a must-see worldwide event by the British publication The Independent in 2005. Around 500,000 people attend the event each year, guaranteeing that it has received countless honors and continues to flourish.

When we think about Serbia, the first thing that springs to mind is the Belgrade Beer - a famous festival. You may party and sample over 100 different brands of high-quality beer at this event (both local and international). What makes this event so popular in Serbia is that it is free and does not require advance registration. Simply put on your most fashionable clothing and you're ready to go!

When: in August

Where: Belgrade

Almost everyone will refer to this pile of brass by the name of the town in which it takes place, also known as the Dragačevski Sabor. Gučais a crazy orgy of trumpets held in a small village near Čačak, and it's as rowdy as festivities get. In a frenzy of Balkan adventure that must be seen to be believed, the cacophonous roar of brass orchestras is emphasized with excessive amounts of booze and no shortage of grilled meat. This is unlike anything else on the earth.

Guča Trumpet Festival is known as one of the most famous festivals in Serbia. The number of people celebrating this cultural event by listening to trumpet ensembles and witnessing traditional exhibitions by local and international artists will amaze you, regardless of their age group. You can also satisfy your hunger with some of the local delicacies that are neatly lined up outside the hall's premises.

When: August - September
Where: Guca

Nišvilleis Serbia's greatest yearly celebration of all things jazz, now in its 23rd year. At the fortress in Niš, several of the greatest performers in the genre have performed. The improvisations of some of the world's finest musicians bounce around this famed stronghold over this August weekend, creating the usually relaxed vibe.

The fact that it offers indigenous music genres including jazz, would, blues, and funk is what draws tourists to this four-day event. It has also played host to some of the world's most famous artists and musicians, making it an intriguing pick for music fans.

When: in August

Where: Niš

Lovefest is a festival dedicated to spreading love that was inspired by a festival held in Serbia in the 1950s. Love of electronic music, nature, and, most importantly, love for one another. The lake and surrounding woodland in Vrnjacka Banja are transformed into a colorful and cultural stage over three days in August.

If Pairs has the Pont des Arts (lovelock bridge) where young lovers can show their love for one another, Serbia hosts the annual Lovefest event. It's a three-day music festival with a romantic theme because it's hosted in Vrnjacka Banja, the most charming town in Croatia. Attendees are encouraged to bring their camping gear as well as foldable chairs to sit in while listening to electronic pop music.

When: in August

Where: Vrnjacka Banja

The Kustendorf Film Festival – The International Film and Music Festival. is an annual event and famous festival held in the village of Drvengrad (also known as Küstendorf) in Serbia's Mokra Gora region in early January. The event is partially funded by the Serbian Ministry of Culture and has no commercial sponsors.

Emir Kusturica, a film director, actor, and musician, aspired to build a special destination that combined art, creativity, and the wonder of nature. Kustendorf was launched in January 2008. Despite its youth, it has swiftly established itself as one of Europe's top film and music festivals, attracting a growing number of young authors, cinematographers, and tourists from all over the world. Numerous big-screen stars, including Nikita Mikhalkov, Johnny Depp, Monica Bellucci, and Jim Jarmusch, as well as Serbian celebrities, have visited this enchanting place.

When: in January

Where: Drvengrad, Serbia

The Roštiljijada, also known as eskovac Roštiljijada, is a yearly barbeque enjoyed by the residents. You'll be met by a large line of fresh Serbian meat kiosks showcasing grilled meals and other popular delights great for those wanting to dig in while listening to live music. The Ćevapčići / Ćevapi, Pečenje, and Punjene Paprike are the most popular dishes.

Every September, hundreds of thousands of people flock to Leskovac, a genuine Mecca for aficionados of Balkan cuisine. Many people come to see the world's largest burger, but most just come to eat the great food.

When: in September

Where: Leskovac

This event appeals to the elderly because it is the oldest summer festival in Valjevo, focusing primarily on the enjoyment of Serbian art. This 10-day celebration is unlike any other carnival because it includes a wide range of exhibitions by local artists, classical visual arts, seminars, dance performances, theater, and films. It is not just a fun event, but it has also played an important role in the Serbian community since 1987.

Tešnjar's is without a doubt Valjevo's crown jewel, therefore it's no surprise that the city's primary event is held in the elegant old neighborhood. Theater and film take center stage, complemented by a diverse range of other visual arts, showcasing the city's best and brightest. Every August, Valjevo comes alive during this 10-day celebration.

When: in August
Where: Valjevo

Serbians are known for their love of meat, so it's no surprise that they have a festival dedicated to it. Because the Kobasicijada is a celebration of Serbia's sausage recipe, residents collaborate to make the world's largest sausage each year. This massive sausage is growing at a rate of one meter each year to break the world record.

Thousands of people came to Turija on Saturday for the annual 'Kobasicijada' sausage festival to witness and taste the country's longest sausage. The news of Turkish sausage, the world's longest sausage, spread over the globe, and now it's time to shatter its record once more. It is one of the most famous festivals in Serbia.

When: in February
Where: Serbian village of Turija

Every Serbian cuisine includes beans as a major course. The Bean Festival, held every year near Novi Sad in a hamlet named Čenej, honors the best beans-based specialties of traditional Serbian cuisine. The dish is traditional in Serbia, and several variations are all equally popular among Serbs.

The Serbs recreate the traditional dish "pasulj" made of white kidney beans over an open fire during this cultural occasion. It is traditionally celebrated with close family and friends, but tourists can also participate in local dancing, singing, sports, and racing activities.

When: in June
Where: Čene, Novi Sad