EXIT moves to Montenegro

The Government of Montenegro reached a decision to support international summer music festivals for 2026, thereby creating the conditions for Montenegro to become the new home of the EXIT Festival.

As stated in the Information reviewed earlier today by the Cabinet members, Montenegro has a unique opportunity during the 2026 summer season to make a significant breakthrough in the field of international event tourism.

“The organisation of two major international music events under the joint name ‘EXIT to Montenegro’ in Ulcinj in the first half of July, and the Sea Dance Festival in Budva at the end of August, has the potential to generate measurable economic benefits for the tourism sector and the wider economy, along with a very strong global promotional effect,” the Information reads.

According to estimates, the two events together are expected to generate at least 210,000 overnight stays and more than EUR 40 million in direct tourism spending.

The proposed public support amounts to EUR 1.5 million from the state budget, with additional support from the municipalities of Budva and Ulcinj.

Through the implementation of this project, Montenegro aims to position itself as one of the leaders in event tourism in Europe—a sector that already generates more than EUR 100 billion annually worldwide.

EXIT represents one of the most recognisable festival brands in the world, with a well-developed international reputation, having generated hundreds of millions of euros in local tourism spending to date.

Among its most important international titles are three Best Major Festival titles at the UK and European Festival Awards—the most prestigious European festival competitions—as well as the award for Best Event Organisation in Europe in 2025.

Research shows that 83% of surveyed visitors stated the festival was their sole reason for visiting the destination, confirming the direct link between festival presence and tourism demand.

In that regard, the EXIT platform is a proven powerful generator of international tourism demand, media visibility, and destination spending, as it attracts visitors from more than 100 countries.

By carrying out this project, Montenegro will not only gain major international music events, but also a strong boost to the strategic development of creative industries, aimed at attracting leading global digital nomads and content creators, as well as retaining young talent in the country.

Considering that Montenegro is marking 20 years since the restoration of its independence, within the celebration programme, the Government will provide additional support to the most important domestic festivals traditionally held in the country.