Four days of sun, music, and parties await in Zamárdi, on the southern shore of Lake Balaton, as STRAND Festival returns for its 2025 edition. Kicking off on August 20, this iconic summer event promises a packed line-up of concerts and programs, drawing festivalgoers to one of the season’s hottest lakeside destinations. Both Hungarian favorites and international stars converge on multiple stages to ensure the season’s final major Balaton bash is absolutely unforgettable.
Music Madness: Artists & Timetable
The festival sprawls across several stages along Balaton’s scenic shores. Each has its own vibe and artist roster, ranging from indie and hip-hop to chart-toppers and international guests.
On the Balaton Main Stage, Wednesday kicks off with Kruder & Dorfmeister at 7:30 PM, followed by the electrifying sounds of Purple Disco Machine and a headline set from Paul Kalkbrenner late into the night. On Thursday, local favorites like Punnany Massif and Parno Graszt take over, Dzsúdló keeps the energy high, and DESH closes out the evening. Friday is stacked: T. Danny, Valmar, Majka, and Beton.Hofi dominate, promising a huge night. On Saturday, L.L. Junior, Bagossy Brothers Company, and festival-closers Halott Pénz (Dead Money) deliver the grand finale.
The Dreher Stage leans into party beats and up-and-comers: Thursday’s highlights include Irie Maffia, Bëlga, Analog Balaton, and Gioli & Assia into the early hours. Friday serves up Lil Frakk, Blahalouisiana, Wellhello, Manuel, and a special Astro x STRAND showcase. Saturday hands the stage to 4S Street, Carson Coma, Krúbi, and international sensation Apashe with a live brass orchestra.
The Sláger FM Stage champions nostalgia, pop, and local legends. Wednesday opens with Geszti Sixty and Gábor Gönczi & the Smile Rock Circus. Thursday offers everything from Cserihanna to Neoton Família’s stars and a late-night ABBA Tribute Show. On Friday, enjoy Szikora Róbert & R-GO, Margaret Island, and the circus-themed Co Lee show. Saturday features anniversary gigs like Ganxsta Zolee & Kartel’s 30th tour alongside fan favorites like Esti Kornél.
The Radio 1 x Jack Daniel’s Stage delivers endless club vibes: nightly DJ marathons feature names like Disco*s Hit, Cooky, Yamina, Purebeat, Lotfi Begi, and StadiumX.
The Coca-Cola Stage turns the spotlight on electronic and underground acts: from Secret Factory to Metha and the wild NECC Party, plus late-night sets with DJ Izil and K-OSZ DISCO throughout the weekend.
Where to Stay: Balaton Comforts for Every Taste
No need to scramble for beds—Zamárdi (Zamárdi) boasts a smorgasbord of accommodations. The Bocskai Holiday House (Bocskai Nyaralóház), beloved as Balaton’s “jewel box,” offers a family-friendly, relaxed vibe year-round. Guests wake to birdsong, drift off to crickets, and enjoy classic Hungarian dishes from an on-site inn featuring signature ingredients and time-honored recipes. The property features a 21,527-square-foot (2,000 m²), enclosed, landscaped yard less than half a mile from the lake (0.43 mi). There are four separate apartments—rent one, several, or all for larger groups.
The main building houses panoramic rooms with private bathrooms, including an exclusive Superior suite perfect for families or anyone seeking extra luxury. Meanwhile, a retro-style annex near the shore provides 20 cottages that evoke classic summer holidays. The in-house restaurant specializes in both Hungarian favorites and grilled, oven-baked treats, with space for corporate and team-building events or larger parties.
Plenty more options pepper the lakeside. From stylishly renovated bed-and-breakfasts and modern, well-equipped guesthouses within a 109-yard (100 m) stroll from Lake Balaton (Balaton), to classic home stays nestled in friendly gardens with outdoor showers, grills, and even pet-friendly policies—there’s something for everyone, year-round. Many guesthouses feature secure parking, communal green spaces, and either shared or private beach access.
For something special, check out Hotel Wellamarin****Superior Grandeluxe, set right on the shoreline. Here, spacious, feng shui-designed rooms open to breathtaking Balaton (Balaton) views, wellness experiences, and gourmet dining for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Eats, Drinks, & Local Culture
STRAND isn’t just about the music. The region’s iconic taverns and modern eateries welcome festivalgoers with everything from Balaton (Balaton) wine and house-made sodas to classic Hungarian strudels and regional favorites. Paprika Tavern (Paprika Csárda) in the town center hosts weddings, birthdays, and business meetings for up to 250 guests—and is open year-round. Sample lakeshore buffets celebrating Balaton (Balaton)-grown produce, or grab a chilled beer and a homemade syrup drink on the go.
ZAM, a new cultural and community hub, keeps Zamárdi (Zamárdi) lively beyond the festival season. It houses a 100-person event hall and the Bake My Day bakery on the ground floor, while upstairs you can sip cocktails on a panoramic terrace. From concerts and readings to bustling performances, the city’s nightlife never stops.
Always Changing: Festival Tips
Organizers reserve the right to adjust dates or programs, so keep an eye out for updates. Whatever your vibe—nonstop party, lakeside relaxation, or a taste of Balaton (Balaton) living—STRAND Festival Zamárdi (Zamárdi) 2025 guarantees a final blast of summer and a treasure trove of unforgettable memories.
