By Veaceslav Gorita
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June 13, 2025
Despite the economic and political situation in the country, Moldova hosts the most diverse festivals every year. It is a new habit for us, which is turning into a beautiful cultural tradition. Below you will find a top 10 festivals that you can attend during the year 2025. 1. Classical Music Festival "DescOPERA" – June 20th - 22th The first edition of the festival took place last weekend at Orheiul Vechi. What makes this festival special is the opportunity to enjoy classical music in the open air. Renowned orchestra conductors perform at the event. Spectators can savor the distinguished atmosphere alongside people who appreciate culture and art. 2. Street Food & Wine Festival – Gastronomic Festival Date: June 13–15 Location: Great National Assembly Square, Chișinău Participants will be able to enjoy a variety of culinary delights, wines from local producers, and performances by artists such as Subcarpați, Adriana Ochisanu, Gabriel Nebunu, and Adrian Ursu & Orchestra. Entry to the festival is free. 3. IA MANIA – Arts Festival Born from Tradition Date: July 6 Location: Holercani village, Dubăsari district Launched in 2013, IA MANIA is a festival dedicated to promoting the traditional embroidered blouse (ia) and folk crafts from Moldova. The event brings together local artisans, chefs who prepare traditional recipes, musicians, and dancers in an authentic and vibrant atmosphere. 4. Noaptea Sânzienelor – Festival of Music and Traditions Date: July 5 Location: Castel Mimi Wine Resort, Bulboaca village, Anenii Noi district. The Night of the Saints (Noaptea de Sânziene) is a traditional Romanian festival celebrated on the night of June 23 to 24. At Castel Mimi, the event features music, dance, cultural traditions, and a special program filled with surprises. 5. Festivalul Lupilor – Festival of Music and Traditions Date: August 8–10, 2025 Location: Trebujeni village, Orheiul Vechi Cultural-Natural Reserve, Republic of Moldova Festivalul Lupilor 2025 will take place from August 8 to 10 in the village of Trebujeni, located within the Orheiul Vechi Cultural-Natural Reserve. The event is known for its authentic atmosphere, combining folk, rock, and ethno music with ancestral traditions and the stunning natural landscapes of the region. 6. LAPOIANA – Festival of Music and Traditions Date: August 9–10 Location: Glinjeni village, Fălești district The festival offers a wide range of musical genres, from techno and house to pop, rap, and folk, performed by local and international artists. The main stage and the retro stage will host electrifying performances, accompanied by visual installations and a customized light show, creating an unforgettable sensory experience. 7. HODINA – Festival of Music and Traditions Date: August 17 Location: Pohrebea village, Dubăsari district Hodina Fest is an annual festival that brings together the traditions, culture, and natural beauty of the Republic of Moldova. The event takes place on Sunday, August 18, in Pohrebea village, Coșnița commune, Dubăsari district. Hodina Fest is more than just a festival – it’s a unique experience that combines music, traditional crafts, local gastronomy, and outdoor activities. 8. Summer Fest 2025 Date: August 23–24, 2025 Location: Botanical Garden, Chișinău, Republic of Moldova Now in its eighth edition, Summer Fest 2025 promises to be the most spectacular festival of the summer, bringing together music lovers, fun seekers, and fans of a vibrant atmosphere. 9. VinOpera Date: September 5 Location: Castel Mimi Wine Resort, Bulboaca village, Anenii Noi district. VinOpera at Castel Mimi is a special event that blends the art of opera with fine wine tasting, offering a cultural and gastronomic experience in a spectacular setting. Held outdoors, VinOpera features opera and classical music artists performing famous arias, while guests enjoy the award-winning wines of the castle. The VinOpera concept aims to create a refined atmosphere where music, wine, and architectural ambiance merge into a unique and unforgettable experience. 10. Chișinău Marathon Date: September 27–28 Location: Great National Assembly Square, Chișinău. The Chisinau International Marathon is a landmark sporting event and the largest running competition in Moldova.