by Natalia Vasquez

The annual Sziget Festival has grown into one of the largest, most popular and most diverse cultural events in Europe since its inception in 1993. Crossing borders between the music industries of Western and Eastern Europe, it manages to surpass itself every year while providing around the clock entertainment for hundreds of thousands of visitors who set up camp on lush Danube Island in the heart of Budapest. 

Approximately 60 venues will be staging over 1000 music, dance, and theatre performances in every flavor imaginable. With 15 stages hosting a seemingly endless collection of international stars and Hungarian favorites, each venue could comprise a whole festival on its own. Performance stages and tents will offer pop, punk, hard rock, world music, electronic dance music, alternative, blues and jazz acts for the throngs of loyal and first time attendees.

This year's celebration boasts Radiohead, Natacha Atlas, Placebo, Femi Kuti, Scissor Sisters, Robert Plant and the Strange Sensation, Afro Celt SoundSystem, The Orb and Coldcut among its headliners. Separate venues will be set up for theatrical and dance pieces, literary nights, classical music concerts and youth programs for children. Sports activities from the mild to the extreme will round out this spectacular summer event as well as ensure a good night's sleep under the stars. Last year's audience count of 385,000 is expected to be exceeded this year so be sure to arrive early enough to procure a prime spot on the festival grounds campsite.

Sziget Festival (V) 9 - 16 August 2006
Budapest, Hungary
€24 daily, €120 for the week w/ camping facilities and €99 w/out
www.sziget.hu / (in 6 languages)

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