Macedonia has a vivid music scene. Check out these festivals worth visiting and exploring new music genres
Macedonia is known for its rich cultural and vibrant music scene, and there are several music festivals that are popular among young people in the region.
If you are a music lover there are a few festivals that might surprise you and fulfill your expectations of discovering new bands, artists, genres, and music, overall.
Some of the most popular music festivals include:
Skopje Jazz Festival
Skopje Jazz Festival is a jazz festival held in Skopje, Macedonia, since 1982.
Although the festival promotes a genre that seems distant from its own culture and traditions, it attracts large audiences and receives attention in the Balkans and the rest of Europe. Musicians who have performed at the festival include Marshall Allen, Art Ensemble of Chicago, Anthony Braxton, Brazilian Girls, Ray Charles, Zoran Madzirov, Stanley Clarke, Ornette Coleman, Chick Corea, Al Di Meola, Gotan Project, Charlie Haden, Herbie Hancock, Andrew Hill, Dave Holland, Maria Joao, D. D. Jackson… the list of the famous artist performing on this festival is so long, it just proves its regional importance and cultural impact.
D festival – Summer Festival in Dojran
D festival is an annual festival that takes place in the summer by the Dojransko Lake and features a line-up of local and international musicians and DJs. Established in 2011 and raised by the idea of having a unique open-air music event that will offer an alternative space for the finest artist of the local, regional, and world music scene. The music program usually lasts 3 days and 3 nights without interruption and young people decide to experience the event by setting up a camp in the festival area.
Taksirat Festival – Skopje
Taksirat Festival is a unique festival that focuses on alternative and experimental music and is popular among younger crowds. Fans of alternative music always get excited during late November and early December because this is when they find out the annual Taksirat Festival will begin. This music event lasts several days and attracts approximately 15.000 visitors.
The festival is the biggest in the country and it is the only winter music festival in South Eastern Europe. Some call it the Amsterdam Dance Event of the Balkans. A lot of eminent domestic and foreign artists have performed: Manu Chao, Parov Stelar, Guano Apes, Laibach, The Strangers, Iggy Pop… the list goes on.
Ohrid Summer Festival
The Ohrid Summer Festival is a popular festival that takes place in Ohrid, one of the oldest and most historic cities in North Macedonia. The festival features classical concerts and musical performances by the world's best-known musicians. However, the program directors are including popular genres lately, such as hip hop and electronic music to attract a younger audience.
These festivals offer a diverse range of musical experiences and attract young people from across the country and beyond. Whether you're into rock, hip-hop, or electronic music, there's something for everyone at these festivals. For music lovers, there will be always new artists, genres, and performances to explore.