SAM PAGANINI AND FIONA KRAFT TO HEADLINE FRESHWAVE FESTIVAL IN BANJA LUKA

Italian techno heavyweight Sam Paganini and French DJ and producer Fiona Kraft have been announced as the latest international stars joining the lineup of the 14th Freshwave Festival, set to take place from August 6 to 8 at the historic Kastel Fortress in Banja Luka.

PHOTO: Sam Paganini

The addition of two internationally acclaimed electronic music artists further reinforces Freshwave Festival's commitment to bringing some of the most relevant names from the global electronic scene to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Both Paganini and Fiona Kraft are regular performers at the world's leading festivals and iconic clubs.

Their arrival strengthens an already impressive international lineup, which previously confirmed Sébastien Léger and Denis Sulta. This year's edition promises a diverse musical journey, blending melodic house, progressive sounds and high-energy techno.

The festival has also expanded its Live Stage program with the addition of Kosnik and Charna, joining a regional lineup that already includes Grše, Buč Kesidi, Zoster, Let 3, Vojko V, Z++, and Elemental, offering visitors an even broader concert experience.

One of techno's most recognizable figures for nearly three decades, Sam Paganini gained worldwide recognition with his hit "Rave," which has surpassed 100 million streams and remains one of the most successful techno tracks ever released. Throughout his career, he has released music on renowned labels including Drumcode, Cocoon Recordings and Plus8, while performing at legendary venues and festivals such as Berghain, Fabric, Awakenings, Tomorrowland, Time Warp, Ultra Music Festival, Sonus and Sziget.

Known for his powerful groove-driven sets and energetic performances, Paganini describes his signature sound as "sexy, groovy dark techno," making him one of the most sought-after techno artists on the international circuit.

Joining him is Fiona Kraft, one of the fastest-rising names in the contemporary house and progressive music scene. With a background in classical music and a distinctive production style focused on atmosphere and emotion, she has built a strong international reputation.

Following the success of her single "Nomad" and the EP "Deeper Feelings," Fiona launched her own record label, NON MERCI MUSIC, allowing her to develop a unique artistic vision beyond traditional genre boundaries. Her performances have taken her to prestigious venues and festivals including Exit Festival, Ultra Music Festival, Brunch Electronik, Hï Ibiza, Fabric London, Watergate Berlin and Savaya Bali. Her 2026 touring schedule also features appearances at Zamna, KOKO London, Voodoo Village and Scorpios Mykonos.

Held under the slogan "Enter the Nexus," this year's Freshwave Festival continues its tradition of connecting different musical styles, artists and audiences. For fourteen years, the festival has successfully combined world-class electronic music with some of the region's most popular live performers, establishing itself as one of Southeast Europe's leading music festivals.

From August 6 to 8, Kastel Fortress will once again become the meeting point for thousands of electronic music fans, offering another unforgettable festival experience in the heart of Banja Luka.

Festival tickets are already available through Kupikartu.ba at promotional prices. A standard festival pass currently costs 60 BAM, VIP tickets are priced at 90 BAM, while the exclusive On Stage ticket, offering fans an up-close experience with the performers, is available for 150 BAM. Prices will increase as ticket sales progress through subsequent phases.