Sziget Festival 2026 Cancelled? Budapest Vote Blocks Rescue Plan
The future of one of Europe’s most iconic festivals is uncertain. After weeks of political tension, the Budapest Metropolitan Assembly officially rejected the proposal that could have saved Sziget Festival 2026. The decision, made on October 29, leaves the festival’s return in serious doubt and has created a legal deadlock around the event’s future.
Why Is Sziget Festival 2026 at Risk?
At the center of the crisis lies a single administrative issue. The city cannot cancel the old public-space contract with the current U.S.-owned organizers, who no longer plan to hold the 2026 edition. Without that cancellation, Budapest cannot sign a new agreement with Károly Gerendai, the festival’s founder, who has been leading the rescue efforts with Mayor Gergely Karácsony.
As the Mayor’s Office explained, the existing contract works as an official administrative permit – not a typical lease. This means Óbudai Island, Sziget’s home for decades, is legally considered “occupied” until the old contract is officially terminated. Only then could a new agreement be signed with the new, Hungarian management team.
Why Did the Vote Fail?
Despite broad agreement that Sziget Festival must be saved, the city’s factions voted against ending the old contract. Their main concern was financial. The existing agreement guarantees Budapest over 200 million HUF in annual fees, and many assembly members feared losing that income before securing a new financial guarantee.
However, Gerendai’s team and the Mayor’s Office repeatedly emphasized that a new deal – including such a guarantee – cannot be negotiated until the old contract is canceled. The vote’s failure has effectively frozen any progress, leaving the festival in administrative limbo.
What Happens Now?
With the final proposal rejected, the old contract remains active. As a result, Óbudai Island stays legally “occupied,” blocking the new team from organizing the 2026 event. This comes just as critical planning stages for ticket sales and artist bookings are passing their deadlines.
Unless an unexpected resolution appears soon, Sziget Festival 2026 could be canceled – marking the first time in decades that the festival might not take place.
Sziget Festival’s Legacy in Europe
Since its first edition in 1993, Sziget has grown into one of Europe’s biggest and most beloved music festivals. Hosting global headliners such as Arctic Monkeys, Billie Eilish, and Dua Lipa, it attracts fans from over 100 countries each summer. Known for its inclusive atmosphere and cultural diversity, Sziget Festival has become a symbol of freedom and unity in the heart of Budapest.
The current crisis puts not only the 2026 edition at risk but also the festival’s long-term presence on Óbudai Island.
FAQ
1. Will Sziget Festival take place in 2026?
At this moment, the 2026 Sziget Festival is in jeopardy. The Budapest Metropolitan Assembly’s vote against canceling the old contract prevents a new agreement from being signed. Unless this changes soon, the 2026 edition may not happen.
2. Where can fans check official updates about Sziget Festival?
Official information can be found on the Sziget Festival website and through verified news sources like 444.hu and Hang.hu, which closely follow the situation.
