In recent days, the annual assembly of the European Festivals Association (EFA), which operates under the patronage of the European Union, was held in Edinburgh. This prestigious association of arts festivals from around the world was founded in 1952, and the “Theatre City” festival has been its member since 2019. Each year, EFA organizes an annual gathering of its members –directors of major international festivals, artists, and creative directors – in one of the festival cities selected at the general assembly. The assembly is attended by representatives of 110 festivals, 30 festival cities, and regions.
This year’s host city was Edinburgh, home to the renowned Edinburgh International Festival. One of the most famous arts festival in the world, it has been held for 78 years during one summer month across numerous locations in this historic city, involving the entire city infrastructure as well as independent artists.
At the General Assembly of EFA, held on Wednesday, April 30, the director of the Public Institution “Theatre City”, Milena Lubarda Marojević – who is also a board member of the Association – presented Budva and its capacities for hosting this significant cultural event in our country next year. Special emphasis was placed on preparations for the 40th anniversary of the “Theatre City” festival, which will take place in 2026. In anticipation of that milestone, around 200 EFA delegates have already announced their visit to Budva ahead of the next festival.
The European Festivals Association flag was formally handed over to the “Theatre City” by the Edinburgh Festivals, with Director Katie Paterson presenting it to Director Marojević. The invitation to host such an event in Budva was also supported by a video message from the Mayor of Budva, Nikola Jovanović. The Assembly adopted this proposal, and preparations for the major artistic gathering in Budva in 2026 will begin soon.
Edinburg, 30.04.2025.