Sziget CEO on why festival is must-visit for LGBTQ+ fans: ‘Inclusion is not a marketing strategy for us’

Sziget Festival is edging nearer, and this year’s event is set to be an even bigger celebration as it follows a huge change in Hungary.

In April, Péter Magyar beat the anti-LGBTQ+ Viktor Orbán in the election, and the European court ruled the country’s so-called “child protection” laws, which targeted LGBTQ+ people, breached core EU values.

Following that ruling, charges against Budapest mayor Gergely Karácsony were dropped, after he was charged in relation to Budapest Pride in 2025.

Sziget Festival, taking place 11 to 15 August this year, has long been a haven for LGBTQ+ people, but according to the festival’s CEO Tamás Kádár, there’s a renewed feeling of hope in Hungary.

‘Moments like these can give people hope and confidence’

Kádár tells PinkNews: “I believe moments like these can give people hope and confidence. Progress is rarely linear, but any development that reinforces freedom of expression and the right for communities to come together is encouraging.

“Hungary has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community and many allies, and I think there is a growing sense that diversity and acceptance are strengths. Hope comes from people, and I see plenty of that in Budapest and beyond.”

Kádár adds: “What I sense most is a desire among many people to look forward and to reconnect with a more open, European and inclusive spirit. There is a feeling of renewed energy and curiosity about what kind of country we want to build together.

“For us at Sziget, our values have remained consistent throughout: openness, freedom and respect for everyone.”

Sziget describes itself as “The Island of Freedom”, which is something that “doesn’t depend on political cycles”, Kádár says, however with the recent changes in the country, “cultural events naturally benefit”.

He says: “Creativity flourishes when people feel free to express themselves, and festivals become even more powerful spaces for connection. We want Sziget to continue being a place where everyone feels welcome, regardless of nationality, identity or background.”

‘Inclusion is not a marketing campaign for us: it’s part of our DNA’

Sziget, which has the likes of Bring Me The Horizon, Sombr and Zara Larsson on this year’s line-up, has always had a hub for the LGBTQ+ community, thanks to its Magic Mirror area.

LGBTQ+ fans from more than 100 countries have flocked to the festival. Kádár says: “Inclusion is not a marketing campaign for us: it’s part of our DNA.”

He adds: “They know they can be themselves on our island. Sziget is about self-expression, freedom and community. Whether you’re coming with friends, with a partner or alone, you can find your people. We work hard to create an environment where everyone feels safe, respected and celebrated.”

This year will see the return of Magic Mirror, too.

Kádár tells us: “For decades, it has been much more than a venue, it has been a home for creativity, diversity and self-expression. It showcases incredible performances, drag, cabaret, dance and conversations that bring people together across cultures and identities.

“For many guests, it is a place of joy, discovery and belonging. The spirit of Magic Mirror reflects what Sziget stands for: freedom, openness and the belief that everyone deserves a place where they can shine.”

With the changes going on in the country, LGBTQ+ tourists who may have been put off previously may feel more inclined to visit Hungary.

Kádár says: “Budapest is one of Europe’s most exciting cultural capitals. It offers incredible architecture, contemporary art, world-class music, theatre, nightlife and a thriving independent creative scene. There are beautiful cafés, thermal baths, galleries and a rich history, but also a youthful energy that surprises many first-time visitors.

“Hungary’s artists, musicians and creators have always been outward-looking, and visitors often discover a warm, curious and creative atmosphere that goes far beyond headlines.”

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