The unrepeatable atmosphere of open-air festivals is inherent to a flight in Slovakia. Thousands of people, great music, dancing until morning and experiences that will be remembered for the whole year – this is the ideal scenario for every lover of open-air events. However, the summer weather is unpredictable and can completely turn the organizers’ and visitors’ plans upside down from minute to minute.
On Friday, June 19, the three-day Petržalka Days festival began in Bratislava’s Petržalka. The 29th year of the event returned to the racetrack on Starohájska Street and, in addition to the cultural and musical program for everyone and the accompanying program, it also brought a number of novelties.
However, on Sunday shortly before 8:00 p.m., the organizers announced on the social network that the festival was canceled due to bad weather. “Safety is paramount for us. Due to the approaching storm, we ask you to leave the premises, remain calm and respect the instructions of the organizers. We will inform you about the next procedure. Thank you for your understanding.” they announced.
The Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute (SHMÚ) has issued first-level storm warnings, most of which are valid until 9:00 p.m. The storm warning applies to the entire Žilina region, as well as to the districts of Bratislava, Malacky, Banská Bystrica, Brezno, Detva, Zvolen, Gelnica, Spišská Nová Ves, Komárno, Nové Zámky, Senica, Kežmarok, Levoča, Poprad and Stará Ľubovňa.
The festival site was divided into five zones – health and beauty, sports, fan zone, children’s zone and #petržalkažije. After a one-year break, the popular three-on-three street basketball matches have also returned. Entertainment and education were provided by local organizations, sports clubs, civic associations and companies.
The competition for children in collecting stamps also continued, this time at nine stations, including a bonus one. On Sunday (June 21), the festival included a competition for the most beautiful and smartest Parsley nut (dog hybrid). According to the district, the refreshments did not deviate from the usual festival offer. Lovers of classics and Slovak specialties, as well as vegetarians, had their fill.
Friday’s music program was tuned to hip-hop, for example Rytmus or Tina, Slovak punk will be brought by the band Other Cafes. He performed on Saturday (June 20). Peter Nagy and Indigo, Polemic, Kollárovci and Mária Čírová. There was also an Oldies Party. She was supposed to introduce herself on Sunday Sima Magušinová, Desmod and No Name. However, the Bratislava Boys’ Choir and the Canens Children’s Choir also came to sing this year.
This year, the Bratislava transport company also strengthened the city’s public transport. The city district advised visitors to come by public transport, as there is a problem with parking in the area. However, they could also use free shared bicycles from Slovnaft.
