Summer in Montenegro offers a range of cultural celebrations, music and theatre concerts, festivals, and entertainment that is as rich, diverse and vibrant as any that can be enjoyed in the most popular destinations in southeastern Europe. From the entertainment delights of a Budva summer to the rich heritage festivals of Kotor – there is something here for everyone.
In this article, the team at Luštica Bay, Montenegro’s exclusive coastal community, share summer event calendar in Montenegro 2024 favourites, and highlight the can’t-miss events that are happening in their neighbourhood this summer season.
Music Festivals in Montenegro
Music festivals in Montenegro are inclusive, welcoming and world-class. Artists, DJs and musicians – local and international – entertain globally impressive numbers of music lovers each year. Some of the world’s best dance, rock, and jazz festivals will be happening here over the coming weeks.
Made in New York Jazz Festival
Date: June 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 2024
The Made In New York Jazz Festival, returns to Montenegro for its ninth edition from June 21st. Located in Porto Montenegro in Tivat, the event features legendary artists like Jeff Tain Watts, Nathan East, Frank Gambale, Kennedy Kennedy, Yaacov Mayman, alongside rising stars like Ekep Nkwelle and Noah East from the US – the very best global jazz talent. Regional artists including Lana Janjanin from Croatia and international artists like Michal Martyniuk from New Zealand will also perform this year. The grand finale will take place on June 23rd at The Capital Plaza.
Get Lost!
Date: June 28th, 2024
Following a reportedly incredible event in Mexico City, Crosstown Rebels presents Get Lost! in Montenegro this summer. An exciting event for electronic music lovers, this new one-day festival is being described as “the ultimate underground music experience”. Taking place at the historic Kanli Kula Fortress in Herceg Novi, this two-stage festival is set to be one of Montenegro’s largest electronic music events of 2024.
Beats on the Bay
Dates: July 6 to August 30, 2024
Celebrate summer at the Beats by the Bay festival at Luštica Bay’s Almara Beach Club. Every Saturday in July and August guests can enjoy international VIP DJs like Berge Sahakian (Goldcap) and Amine K. From trad/modern fusion to smiley electronic sounds, some of the world’s best artists will play here over the coming weeks. July’s lineup features Pete Herbert, DJ Torres, Tebra, and Funk D’Void, while August’s lineup includes Goldcap, Secret 47, Amine K, Estray, and The Soul Brothers. These artists have played worldwide – Marrakech, London, Lisbon and LA, Japan and Burning Man in Nevada – and this summer Montenegro is added to this prestigious list.
Rubix Festival
Dates: August 8th, 9th, 10th, 2024
At Porto Montenegro, summer 2024, we welcome the second edition of the Rubix Festival – an event that offers a fabulous mix of music, art, theatre and technology. A canvas of creativity, this festival is the perfect place for free spirits, party lovers, aspiring artists, budding performers, creators, and anyone in search of a summer of fun and entertainment by the sea! Much more than music, there are workshops and masterclasses, art and photography exhibitions, food gardens and a marketplace to enjoy. “Rubix’ organisers have created a unique platform generating unparalleled sensations for the audience.” Maša Vlaović – Minister of Culture and Media.
Lake Fest
Dates: August 9th, 10th, 11th, 2024
Lake Fest is one of Montenegro’s most popular annual music festivals. Held in August, in the municipality of Nikšić, this three-day festival is one of the summer season festival highlights. Bringing together the very best of local, regional, and international artists, Lake Fest has an incredible atmosphere and boasts one of the most picturesque locations of any music event in Europe – the forest next to Lake Krupac. Campsite facilities are available to all to add to the outdoor adventure. In 2024, headliners include Rudimental, The Stranglers, The Libertines, and Olly Murs, with many more well-known artists performing. Tickets are available from local ticket outlets (in Podgorica and Nikšić) or online on the Lake Fest website.
Summer Concerts in Montenegro
Montenegro’s 2024 summer of music performances look set to be incredible. From jazz to symphonies, opera to pop. We are looking forward to a great summer of music concerts ahead.
Summer Salsa Nights
Dates: 20th of June, 8th of July, 7th of August, 5th of September
For the ultimate Latin experience, Luštica Bay’s sizzling Salsa Nights feature the rhythms of the Cubalcanica Band and the Havana Ladies trio. The perfect chance to dust off your dancing shoes, show off your skills, and to spice up your summer with the rhythm and passion of salsa. Beginners are also very welcome.
Operosa Montenegro and the Operosa Concerts series
Dates: July 3rd, 4th, 24th, 2024 & August 9th, 2024
This summer, Luštica Bay will host Operosa Montenegro. Presenting an exceptional Operosa Concerts series at The Amphitheatre in the Centrale neighbourhood, outdoor evening performances will include The Fury of Hella!, Cinderella, A Star is Born, and Opera Romances. Operosa Montenegro was founded by Finnish mezzo-soprano Katherine Haataja, who has developed a company of experienced virtuosos. She also celebrates the talents of emerging opera talent, so perhaps the next Pavarotti, Dmitri Hvorostovsky, or Maria Callas could be on stage this summer.
Gibonni Plays at Luštica Bay
Date: July 15, 2024
Get ready for the feel-good concert of the summer as legendary entertainer and Croatian singer-songwriter Gibonni takes to the stage at Luštica Bay’s Small Breakwater. Enjoy an evening under the stars, filled with Gibonni’s musical fusion of pop, rock, and traditional Dalmatian folk music – all set against the stunning backdrop of the Luštica Peninsula and the Adriatic Sea.
Jeunesses Musicales Jazz World Orchestra
Date: July 17, 2024
The award-winning Jeunesses Musicales Jazz World Orchestra, led by trombonist and composer Luis Bonilla, look set to give a truly electrifying performance at the Small Breakwater at Luštica Bay this July. By the sea, under the stars – this ensemble boasts the very best emerging young jazz talent, and their upcoming convert is a must-see performance this season.
The Western Balkan Youth Orchestra
Date: July 28, 2024
Experience Montenegro’s rich musical heritage at the Western Balkan Youth Orchestra’s upcoming concert. Presented by Kotor Arts, the orchestra represents the region’s most talented string, brass, woodwind and percussion musicians, each coming together to perform an unforgettable evening of classical music.
Jazz Evening with Harfoush
Date: August 11, 2024
Offering another amazing evening of jazz under the stars, Egypt’s premier jazz vocalist, Harfoosh, will bring audiences on a journey into the world of jazz, and beyond. From mellow classics to seductive torch songs – Harfoosh’s setlist offers something to music lovers of every genre.
Amplitudes Ensemble – 8 Cellos Performance
Date: August 15, 2024
Experience something extraordinary at Luštica Bay this summer. Amplitudes Ensemble’s 8 Cello Performance, set against a backdrop of silent films, brings to life the musical heritage of Georgia, the Balkans, India, and beyond. A feast for the senses, the projected visuals come alive with the unique harmonies of this wonderful octet.
Beach Club and DJ Events in Montenegro
A place where high-energy and a sense of summer chill can be found – day and night!
Almara Beach Club Beach Vibes
Dates: Mid-June to Mid-September (3 x times per week)
Experience Montenegro’s legendary Almara Beach Club in Luštica Bay for yourself – one of the country’s most exclusive waterfront beach clubs. From June to September, resident DJ Rayo will play an eclectic blend of electronic, pop, hip-hop, and alternative tunes. With three weekly performances, the beach is transformed, day and night. From moments of high energy fun to chilled tranquillity. This is the beach club for summer 2024.
Full Moon Parties at Almara Beach Club
Dates: June 21, July 21, and August 19, 2024
Don’t miss the Full Moon Parties at Almara Beach Club, where fun, music and good times come alive under the night sky. Adding colour to the evening’s magic, body paint, wonderful light shows, and hypnotic fire show acrobats make these monthly events an experience to be remembered. Starting at 7 pm and running to 1 am, these full moon parties feature resident and guest DJs, delicious cocktails and beachside refreshments. At Almara Beach Club, every moment shines in the glow of the full moon.
Family Festivals & Entertainment in Montenegro
One of the most family friendly countries in the world, Montenegro welcomes visitors of every age. Making sure that the whole family can have fun together, here are some of the best things to do with guests – young and old – this summer.
The Hello Summer Festival
Date: June 23, 2024
Celebrate the warmth of a summer welcome in Montenegro at the Hello Summer Festival at Luštica Bay’s Promenade this June. This one-day family-friendly festival will have great live music. Everyone will also love the local food and handicrafts, and antiques to explore. One of the community’s most loved events, we invite guests to get ready to enjoy the wonderful Montenegro coastline and the sunny summer vibes.
Kids’ Magician Nights with Aleksandar
Date: July 18 and 19, 2024
For kids, young and old, the wow-factor of the Kids’ Magician Nights with Aleksandar has to be seen to be believed. Set to dazzle audiences of all ages, this great show offers the audience a chance to try and discover the secrets of magic and slight-of-hand. Maybe try to attend both nights – you might work out how Aleksandar does it!
Circus Animatori
Dates: August 13 and 14, 2024
The Circus Animatori experience takes entertainment to the next level. Breathtaking stilt walkers, clowns, and magicians bring the very best of modern circus to life, with tricks and acts designed to make you smile, laugh, and take your breath away. The world of Circus Animatori performance is one of light, colour, and beautiful imagination. Wonderful entertainment for children and adults alike.
Sporting & Sailing Events in Montenegro
Basking in the glorious Mediterranean weather, the summer months here are the ideal time for outdoor sports, activities, and sailing. This summer season there is something for everyone to enjoy – from beginner to athlete-level performers.
Regional Padel Tournament
Dates: June 13 to 16, 2024 and August 17 to 18, 2024
Held at the Centrale Padel Courts in Luštica Bay, the Regional Padel Tournament showcases the world’s fastest-growing sport. Residents and visitors are invited to compete, or simply watch as players try to outwit their opponents with powerful padel moves. Guaranteed to have a smashing time, the tournament welcomes players of every ability, but you can also expect to see some top-tier padel action in action! Get ready for strategic volleys, tricky off-the-wall shots and the infamous “La Chiquita” move – a new world of racquet sport awaits!
Aquathlon
Date: June 15, 2024
The Luštica Bay Aquathlon 2024 is held in cooperation with The Chedi hotel and Multi Sport Academy Mayer. An annual favourite, the race sees participants race through Luštica Bay’s Marina Village and then swim between two of the community’s stunning beaches. This family-friendly race day begins with registrations at The Amphitheatre and concludes with an award ceremony. A great opportunity to get the heart-racing and to enjoy fresh air, nature, and friendly competition.
Luštica Bay Open ILCA Montenegro Championship 2024
Dates: August 30 to September 1, 2024
As the summer season begins to winds down, Luštica Bay will play host to the Open ILCA Montenegro Championship 2024. Family-friendly sailing – Class 5 and 6 regattas – here you can see the next generation of sailors in action (ages 21 or under), showcasing their skills in single-handed dinghies. Young competitors also get a chance to race in the world’s most popular kid’s sailboat.
The Luštica Bay Sailing Cup 2024
Dates: August 31 to September 1, 2024
The Luštica Bay Sailing Cup 2024 is one of summer’s most prestigious and glamorous sailing events. With cruiser boats competing for the cup, the race plots a course along the picturesque Adriatic coast to Mamula Island and back. Showcasing Luštica Bay as a rising destination for European sailing, this weekend of nautical and sartorial excellence is not to be missed.
Uphill Race at Luštica Bay
Date: September 7, 2024
For those that fancy the ultimate end of season challenge, the Luštica Bay Uphill Race features a challenging run and cycle from the marina waterfront to the crest of the hill the The Peaks’ neighbourhood on the Luštica Peninsula – a gruelling 180-metre ascent. Come along and cheer on the King or Queen of the Hill. If you think you have what it takes, sign up and start training today.
Heritage Events in Montenegro
Montenegro truly shines in the summer months, and warm days reflect the warm hospitality that the local Montenegrin residents extend to visitors that seek to learn more about the country’s history, heritage and culture. This summer, check out some of the most vibrant, diverse, and historically fascinating Montenegro festivals.
Culture Pop-Ups
Date: June 13, July 11, August 21 and September 10, 2024
Experience the artistic heritage of Montenegro with Culture Pop-Ups at Luštica Bay this summer. These events, which take place in various Luštica Bay neighbourhoods, will feature folk dancers in traditional dress, local music performances and folk songs, and traditional games. These pop-ups bring Montenegro’s rich cultural traditions and history to life, and are a wonderful recreation of history that residents and visitors can enjoy.
Montenegrin Statehood Day
Date: July 13, 202
Honouring the country’s 1878 independence, Montenegrin Statehood Day is one of Montenegro’s most significant national holidays. Celebrated at Luštica Bay, this festive highlight will feature the beautiful music of the Bar’s Antivari Musica choir and equally beautiful local delicacies at the event’s bazaar. Visitors can also take time to tour an antique exhibition.
The Fascinada Festival in Perast
Date: July 22, 2024
For those that enjoy the beauty of legacy, heritage and history, don’t miss the Fascinada festival in Perast – a festival as fascinating as its name suggests. Celebrating Our Lady of the Rocks – an island church with a history that dates back to 1452 – on the 22nd of July a procession of up to 60 decorated boats departs the entrance of the bay to Persat, circles the island, where old songs from the Boka Bay area are then sung. This unique cultural experience is one that is deeply rooted in Montenegrin tradition. Afterwards, food and drink is served at various stands that are set up on the promenade. Music and late-night concerts are also welcoming and wonderful.
Kotor Summer Carnival
Date: July 30 to August 2, 2024
The UNESCO Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor is home to Europe’s southernmost fjord and the brilliantly entertaining international summer carnival in Kotor. One of the region’s best heritage festivals, this annual event transforms the city into a centre of fun and celebration. Featuring colourful parades, elaborate costumes, and performances from local and international artists, the carnival showcases Kotor’s rich heritage, all while entertaining the thousands of people that come to enjoy the live music, dancing, and unique cultural activities. Join the masquerade in this magnificent mediaeval town!
Bokeljska Noc
Date: August – To be confirmed
Bokeljska Noc, or Boka Night, is one of the most popular summer festivals in Kotor. A celebration of the traditions of fishermen, sailors, and Kotor’s citizens, local and international people can apply to participate in a water parade, where people decorate their boats – each with a personal message on display. After this, the procession continues through the streets, where music, concerts and great local food can be enjoyed. A spectacular fireworks display ends the event.
Arts, Culture and Design Events in Montenegro
KotorArt International Festival
Dates: June 21 to August 14, 2024
KotorArt is one of Montenegro’s most important art festivals. Recognised globally, this year 200 programmed exhibits and events will showcase the unique works and artistic talents of local, regional, and international artists. Founded as an art-centric festival in 2002, KotorArt has become a multi-dimensional festival – with music theatre, workshops and lectures featured, with activities also happening post-festival, contributing to the city’s year-round cultural life.
Theatre – Žena Koja Je Skuvala Svog Muža | The Woman Who Cooked Her Husband
Date: July 14, 2024
If you enjoy dark comedy then Žena Koja Je Skuvala Svog Muža | The Woman Who Cooked Her Husband is the play for you! The saying “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” takes on a new meaning after you have seen this performance. This production with Biserka Milic, features Đorđe Tatic, Marija Đurić, and Anđelija Rondović. Well worth seeing.
The 2024 International Fashion Festival
Dates: July 19 and 20, 2024
With the summer season in full-swing, fashion aficionados are set to descend upon Porto Montenegro – the couture capital of Montenegro – for the 2024 International Fashion Festival. This elegant neighbourhood becomes an ultra-glamorous centre of fashion excellence, where fashionistas, lovers of great design, and socialites converge to critique and take inspiration from designers that sit at the pinnacle of global fashion.
Food & Wine Events in Montenegro
SuperWine 11 at Luštica Bay
Date: June 29, 2024
SuperWine is an event where fine wines can be enjoyed in good company. Celebrate the art of winemaking and indulge in an evening that will delight amateur enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Enjoy a tasting journey in a breathtaking location – the Big Breakwater at Luštica Bay.
In Summary
When it comes to finding things to do in Montenegro in summer, residents and visitors are spoilt for choice. Summer festivals in Montenegro are among the world’s best – so come and discover them for yourself.