A New Open-Air Venue On Óbudai Island
Budapest is about to add a vibrant new chapter to its rich nightlife narrative with the unveiling of Aura Bay Open Air, scheduled to launch on September 18, 2026. Located on the picturesque Óbudai Island, commonly referred to as Hajógyári-sziget, this open-air dance music venue is set to enrich the city’s cultural landscape. Not only is it positioned near the renowned Sziget Festival, but it also forms part of a broader recreational experience known as Aura Bay, which beautifully merges music, art, and nature.
The talented architects behind Aura Bay have designed the venue to coexist with the Aura Bay Light Park, a space already infused with striking light installations and garden sculptures. Patrons will find themselves surrounded by immersive art, including a standout feature—a 20-meter illuminated LED whale and a walkable illuminated pyramid. The integration of these installations into the venue means that visitors will experience a multi-sensory journey, where the vibrant hues of art complement the pulsating beats of dance music.
The Significance of Óbudai Island
Óbudai Island has long been a key player in Budapest’s music scene, transitioning from a historical shipyard to one of the city’s most beloved locations for festivals. Its existing association with the Sziget Festival—one of Europe’s largest music festivals—brings a level of gravitas to any new ventures on the island. With Aura Bay Open Air, organizers aim to create a permanent space dedicated to electronic music events, enhancing both the island’s cultural significance and its appeal to both locals and tourists.
HUGEL To Headline The Grand Opening
The grand opening of Aura Bay Open Air promises to be a spectacular event headlined by the acclaimed French DJ and producer, HUGEL. Known for his distinctive sound that fuses elements of Afro Latin House, HUGEL is making his first standalone headline appearance in Hungary at this event. Scheduled to perform from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM, his set is highly anticipated, especially considering his impressive portfolio, which features performances at epic events like EDC Las Vegas, Tomorrowland, and Coachella.
Born in Marseille, HUGEL has crafted a reputation for high-energy performances and unforgettable tracks. His recent success includes his debut album Twenty One, released in 2026, and the popular single Movin’ To The Sun, which has amassed over 100 million streams on Spotify. His decision to debut at Aura Bay Open Air not only marks a highlight in his career but promises an unforgettable experience for attendees.
Full Lineup For The Opening Event
The opening day will kick off at 3:00 PM and feature a diverse lineup of both international artists and up-and-coming names from Budapest’s vibrant house music scene. Starting off the festivities will be Shooma x Guztavo, followed by acts including MELO x Groove Generation, DJ Freespirit, GATANO, and several others leading up to HUGEL’s performance.
Here’s a brief overview of the lineup schedule:
- 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Shooma x Guztavo
- 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: MELO x Groove Generation
- 6:00 PM – 6:45 PM: DJ Freespirit
- 6:45 PM – 7:30 PM: GATANO
- 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM: HUGEL
- 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Tom Enzy
- 10:00 PM – 10:30 PM: miirabelle
- 10:30 PM – 11:00 PM: Budai House Clique
Voices from the Stage
Artists participating in the opening festivities are filled with excitement about performing at Aura Bay Open Air. GATANO expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m really excited to be part of the opening of Aura Bay Open Air and to share the lineup with HUGEL. Budapest has an incredible energy, and playing in such a unique setting makes this show even more special.”
Similarly, miirabelle shared her perspective, saying, “House music has always been about joy, connection, and shared moments. Being part of the opening of a new venue in our hometown, alongside HUGEL and such an exciting lineup, feels like the perfect opportunity to bring that spirit to the dancefloor.”
Event Details
Aura Bay Open Air will officially open its doors on Friday, September 18, from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased through Fourvenues, with an early bird special expected to sell out quickly, given the anticipation surrounding the event and its headliner.
Join this inaugural event at Aura Bay, where state-of-the-art music technology meets artistic innovation, creating a snapshot of Budapest’s lively cultural scene and local community spirit. With stunning surroundings and an exceptional lineup, it promises to be a memorable experience for both music lovers and a broader audience.
