Australia’s cult CLOSER Festival is set to make its European debut this summer, as influential underground talent SPEZ brings the concept to Bosnia & Herzegovina for the first time with an inaugural edition in Livno taking place from 24th-26th July 2026. Next to world-class music, this cultured escape offers a mix of natural beauty, wild horses, lake swimming and plenty more.
Founded as an extension of SPEZ’s wider vision through Warg Records, CLOSER has previously established itself in Australia with legendary events across Sydney, Perth and Melbourne. The move into Europe marks a bold but natural next step for the project: Livno holds particular importance as SPEZ’s hometown, so ensures the festival is underpinned with a strong personal as well as cultural context.
Set against a striking natural backdrop beside one of Europe’s largest man-made lakes and beneath the Kamensko mountain range, the fully camping-based festival will welcome 5,000 attendees with multiple camping options available. The blissful site will feature swimming access, lakeside bars and restaurants with a dedicated wellness and social space called “Ritam Kahve” (or “The Rhythm of Coffee”), where traditional Bosnian coffee will be served each morning ahead of carefully curated musical programming.
Musically, CLOSER will present two immersive stages: a main stage hosting international artists, and a dedicated CLOSER stage focused on exciting emerging & underground talent, curated takeovers and label showcases. The featured hosts are Frazi.er’s PLTFRM, Amsterdam’s techno crew Vault Sessions, and Manchester’s Clergy Records — Cleric’s renowned imprint known for its uncompromising contribution to techno culture.
The lineup reflects a full and essential spectrum of contemporary techno with influential artists including Colin Benders (Live), Cleric, Daria Kolosova, Dax J, SLAM, Estella Boersma, Ignez, Yanamaste & more alongside a strong selection of emerging names.
Beyond the music, the festival will incorporate rare, unmissable experiences tied to the local landscape including organised excursions to see Livno’s wild horses in the nearby Cincar mountain range.
Since its inception,CLOSERhas hosted respected labels such asClergy RecordsandMutual Rytmandwas also recognised by the Victorian Government in 2023 as a festival of cultural significance, and is one of the scene’s most respected and discerning brands.
With its first European edition taking place from 24th-26th July, CLOSER continues to build long-term infrastructure for techno culture through innovative international programming and a strong focus on local culture that allows the festival to stand apart in its own right. Pre-sale tickets are now available here.
