BANJA LUKA BECOMES THE FIRST CITY IN THE REGION TO HOST A MUSIC FESTIVAL ON THE WATER

BANJA LUKA – As part of the traditional "Summer on the Vrbas" celebration, Banja Luka made regional history by hosting the first-ever music festival on the water. The two-day "Riverside" festival took place on July 10 and 11, introducing a unique open-air experience that combined music, nature, and the city's iconic riverside setting.

PHOTO: Tomas Damjanović

Held on the banks of the Vrbas River beneath the centuries-old walls of Kastel Fortress, the festival created a spectacular atmosphere where water, lights, music, and people came together in one unforgettable event.

The festival's floating stage was positioned directly on the river, while the historic fortress and the open sky provided a stunning natural amphitheater for visitors, making Riverside one of the most visually distinctive music events in the region.

The opening night featured Banja Luka artist Bojan Čikić, who is celebrating 25 years of his music career this year.

On the second evening, the festival transformed into the White Night Party, an electronic music event where visitors embraced an all-white dress code, creating an impressive visual spectacle along the Vrbas waterfront.

With its innovative concept and breathtaking location, Riverside has positioned Banja Luka as a pioneer of water-based music festivals in Southeast Europe, adding another attractive event to the city's growing summer festival calendar.

Take a look at the atmosphere from last weekend in Banja Luka through the photographs captured by Tomas Damjanović.