Reconnecting with nature
Vir
Vir Festival. Showcase- Sustainability.Art.Nature
"Vir & Bosh Festival: Where music meets nature. Set on the stunning foothills of Mount Kožuf, this eco-conscious adventure blends live music, hiking, cycling, and art with sustainability at its core. Join us for a celebration of culture, creativity, and a greener future, while experiencing the beauty of North Macedonia’s mountains. Let’s make memories, not waste!
North Macedonia
National
It addresses urban-rural linkages
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
Early concept
No
No
As a representative of an organisation
Vir Festival is an eco-conscious multi-media event set to take place in the breathtaking natural environment of Mount Kožuf near Gevgelija, North Macedonia.
The festival aims to reconnect people with nature through an immersive fusion of music, art, outdoor activities, and sustainability initiatives, all within a two-day experience. By choosing a location rich in natural beauty, Vir Festival seeks to promote environmental awareness, encourage sustainable lifestyles, and foster a deeper appreciation for nature among attendees.
The festival’s primary target groups include young people, local residents, tourists, environmental activists, and nature enthusiasts. As mountain landscapes and stunning river sites remain underappreciated, particularly during the summer months, one of our key
objectives is to engage youth who often overlook the natural wonders in their surroundings.
Additionally, Vir Festival will provide a platform for local artists, musicians, and eco- entrepreneurs to showcase their projects, strengthening the local community and culturalscene.
Expected outcomes include increased environmental awareness, hands-on participation in sustainability efforts such as tree planting (goal: 500 trees), significant waste reduction through recycling initiatives, and a long-term cultural shift toward eco-conscious living.
The festival also addresses North Macedonia’s air pollution crisis by promoting green mobility and tree restoration efforts, particularly relevant as Skopje, the capital, remains one of the most polluted cities in Europe.
The festival aims to reconnect people with nature through an immersive fusion of music, art, outdoor activities, and sustainability initiatives, all within a two-day experience. By choosing a location rich in natural beauty, Vir Festival seeks to promote environmental awareness, encourage sustainable lifestyles, and foster a deeper appreciation for nature among attendees.
The festival’s primary target groups include young people, local residents, tourists, environmental activists, and nature enthusiasts. As mountain landscapes and stunning river sites remain underappreciated, particularly during the summer months, one of our key
objectives is to engage youth who often overlook the natural wonders in their surroundings.
Additionally, Vir Festival will provide a platform for local artists, musicians, and eco- entrepreneurs to showcase their projects, strengthening the local community and culturalscene.
Expected outcomes include increased environmental awareness, hands-on participation in sustainability efforts such as tree planting (goal: 500 trees), significant waste reduction through recycling initiatives, and a long-term cultural shift toward eco-conscious living.
The festival also addresses North Macedonia’s air pollution crisis by promoting green mobility and tree restoration efforts, particularly relevant as Skopje, the capital, remains one of the most polluted cities in Europe.
Sustainability
Environmental Awareness
Cultural Exchange
Community
Green Innovation
Vir Festival integrates multiple eco-friendly initiatives to minimize its environmental footprint. Recycling stations will be placed throughout the venue to encourage waste sorting, and a five-cup return program will be implemented, where attendees returning five used cups will be rewarded with a free drink.
The festival will use fresh reusable river water and feature composting toilets to reduce water waste. Decor and installations will be crafted from upcycled materials, reinforcing the principles of the circular economy.
To promote sustainable transportation, attendees will be encouraged to walk or cycle to the event, with a small van available for accessibility needs. Additionally, water at the festival will be free, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles. We will collaborate with a local sustainable fashion brand, APRIL 22, which specializes in biodegradable clothing. As a result, all festival merchandise will be made from biodegradable
materials while also supporting local businesses.
To leave a lasting positive impact on the festival site, Vir Festival will donate 20% of its profits back into the location through the construction of benches, natural water fountains, and resting areas. These additions will enhance the site for future festivals and year-round
sustainable tourism.
The festival's commitment to sustainability sets a new standard for cultural events in the region, proving that gatherings of this scale can be both impactful and
eco-responsible.
The festival will use fresh reusable river water and feature composting toilets to reduce water waste. Decor and installations will be crafted from upcycled materials, reinforcing the principles of the circular economy.
To promote sustainable transportation, attendees will be encouraged to walk or cycle to the event, with a small van available for accessibility needs. Additionally, water at the festival will be free, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles. We will collaborate with a local sustainable fashion brand, APRIL 22, which specializes in biodegradable clothing. As a result, all festival merchandise will be made from biodegradable
materials while also supporting local businesses.
To leave a lasting positive impact on the festival site, Vir Festival will donate 20% of its profits back into the location through the construction of benches, natural water fountains, and resting areas. These additions will enhance the site for future festivals and year-round
sustainable tourism.
The festival's commitment to sustainability sets a new standard for cultural events in the region, proving that gatherings of this scale can be both impactful and
eco-responsible.
The festival’s location, surrounded by lush forests,
mountain rivers, and breathtaking landscapes, provides a truly unique setting that enhances visitors’ connection to nature.
Carefully designed stages, art installations, and lighting will blend seamlessly with the environment, creating an immersive and visually stunning atmosphere.
We plan to work with local artisans to create wooden structures such as benches and resting areas using recycled wood, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
The presence of a beautiful river on-site provides an organic and refreshing visual element that naturally
enriches the festival experience.
Vir Festival will also feature an open-air art gallery, showcasing works that reflect themes of sustainability and nature.
Additionally, film screenings, including documentaries and animations focused on environmental awareness, will be integrated into the festival experience, offering attendees opportunities for deeper reflection and learning.
mountain rivers, and breathtaking landscapes, provides a truly unique setting that enhances visitors’ connection to nature.
Carefully designed stages, art installations, and lighting will blend seamlessly with the environment, creating an immersive and visually stunning atmosphere.
We plan to work with local artisans to create wooden structures such as benches and resting areas using recycled wood, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
The presence of a beautiful river on-site provides an organic and refreshing visual element that naturally
enriches the festival experience.
Vir Festival will also feature an open-air art gallery, showcasing works that reflect themes of sustainability and nature.
Additionally, film screenings, including documentaries and animations focused on environmental awareness, will be integrated into the festival experience, offering attendees opportunities for deeper reflection and learning.
The festival is designed to be inclusive, accessible, and affordable.
With an entry price of approximately 800 MKD for two days, Vir Festival ensures that a broad audience can
participate, regardless of financial background. A second-hand clothing shop will be introduced at the event to promote sustainable fashion while making eco-friendly attire more accessible.
Community involvement is at the heart of the festival. Local high schools will host pre- festival workshops on sustainability, and Red Cross volunteers, along with other local volunteers, will play a key role in festival operations. A dedicated shuttle service will be available for attendees with mobility challenges, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.
With an entry price of approximately 800 MKD for two days, Vir Festival ensures that a broad audience can
participate, regardless of financial background. A second-hand clothing shop will be introduced at the event to promote sustainable fashion while making eco-friendly attire more accessible.
Community involvement is at the heart of the festival. Local high schools will host pre- festival workshops on sustainability, and Red Cross volunteers, along with other local volunteers, will play a key role in festival operations. A dedicated shuttle service will be available for attendees with mobility challenges, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.
Vir Festival actively engages citizens and civil society through volunteering, local artist participation, and educational initiatives. Volunteers assist with logistics and sustainability practices, while local artists and performers showcase their talents, enriching the festival's cultural experience. Youth groups are involved in workshops and environmental education. This involvement fosters community pride, strengthens local ties, and increases environmental awareness. Additionally, local businesses benefit economically, gaining exposure and opportunities. The festival creates lasting cultural, environmental, and economic impact by making citizens integral to its success.
The Municipality of Gevgelija is a key partner for Vir,
providing essential support in the festival's design and implementation. Their involvement includes securing permits, promoting the event, and aligning it with the city’s designation as North Macedonia’s 2025 City of Culture. The municipality's backing ensures strong local recognition, logistical assistance, making it a foundational partner in the festival’s success.
Bosh Festival as a respected local festival with care for eco-values, is keen to collaborate on the artistic program of Vir .Their expertise in curating diverse music and art experiences will enhance the festival’s cultural offerings, helping to attract a wider audience and enrich the festival’s artistic identity. Their involvement brings added credibility and a wealth of experience, contributing to a vibrant and high-quality artistic program that reflects both local and international talent.
Young Leaders Kolektiv is another NGO that supports the vision for Vir with volunteer help and giving social affirmation for our event.
providing essential support in the festival's design and implementation. Their involvement includes securing permits, promoting the event, and aligning it with the city’s designation as North Macedonia’s 2025 City of Culture. The municipality's backing ensures strong local recognition, logistical assistance, making it a foundational partner in the festival’s success.
Bosh Festival as a respected local festival with care for eco-values, is keen to collaborate on the artistic program of Vir .Their expertise in curating diverse music and art experiences will enhance the festival’s cultural offerings, helping to attract a wider audience and enrich the festival’s artistic identity. Their involvement brings added credibility and a wealth of experience, contributing to a vibrant and high-quality artistic program that reflects both local and international talent.
Young Leaders Kolektiv is another NGO that supports the vision for Vir with volunteer help and giving social affirmation for our event.
Environmental Sustainability is a core focus of the festival, with eco-friendly practices like waste reduction, composting toilets, upcycled decor, and tree planting. Environmental experts and NGOs collaborate with local sustainability vendors to ensure the event minimizes its environmental footprint, contributing to long-term ecological preservation.
Cultural and Artistic Programming is shaped by local and regional artists, musicians, and performers. Bosh Festival plays a significant role in curating the music and art programs, enhancing the festival’s cultural offerings. This collaboration draws from both local traditions and international influences, enriching the festival's artistic identity. The Municipality of Gevgelija’s support also ensures the festival aligns with the city's designation as North Macedonia’s 2025 City of Culture, adding cultural value and recognition.
Event Management and Logistics will be handled by a team of event coordinators, local businesses, and volunteers who ensure smooth operations, from managing transportation and food vendors to ticketing and safety.
Young Leaders Kolektiv other local groups will be expected to provide additional support, ensuring the safety and well-being of all attendees.
Education and Community Engagement is another key element, with local schools and youth groups participating in environmental workshops. Educators and environmental experts collaborate to deliver programs that raise awareness about sustainability and nature conservation, strengthening the community’s connection to the festival and its environmental goals.
Finally, the festival promotes Tourism and Economic Development by boosting the region’s eco-tourism. Local businesses benefit from the increased visitors, creating economic opportunities and contributing to the regional economy while showcasing Mount Kožuf’s natural beauty.
Cultural and Artistic Programming is shaped by local and regional artists, musicians, and performers. Bosh Festival plays a significant role in curating the music and art programs, enhancing the festival’s cultural offerings. This collaboration draws from both local traditions and international influences, enriching the festival's artistic identity. The Municipality of Gevgelija’s support also ensures the festival aligns with the city's designation as North Macedonia’s 2025 City of Culture, adding cultural value and recognition.
Event Management and Logistics will be handled by a team of event coordinators, local businesses, and volunteers who ensure smooth operations, from managing transportation and food vendors to ticketing and safety.
Young Leaders Kolektiv other local groups will be expected to provide additional support, ensuring the safety and well-being of all attendees.
Education and Community Engagement is another key element, with local schools and youth groups participating in environmental workshops. Educators and environmental experts collaborate to deliver programs that raise awareness about sustainability and nature conservation, strengthening the community’s connection to the festival and its environmental goals.
Finally, the festival promotes Tourism and Economic Development by boosting the region’s eco-tourism. Local businesses benefit from the increased visitors, creating economic opportunities and contributing to the regional economy while showcasing Mount Kožuf’s natural beauty.
Vir Festival stands out by integrating sustainability into every aspect of the event. Unlike mainstream festivals, which often generate significant waste and emissions, Vir Festival promotes low-impact, eco-friendly practices, including:
A reward-based recycling system to encourage waste reduction
A ban on single-use plastics
Composting toilets to reduce water waste
A strict policy against motorized transport within the festival area
Biodegradable festival wristbands infused with seeds that attendees can plant after the event, growing trees or flowers as a symbolic way to extend the festival's environmental impact
Additionally, by choosing a mountainous location with natural water sources, Vir Festival avoids the infrastructure strain and environmental damage commonly associated with large- scale urban events.
A reward-based recycling system to encourage waste reduction
A ban on single-use plastics
Composting toilets to reduce water waste
A strict policy against motorized transport within the festival area
Biodegradable festival wristbands infused with seeds that attendees can plant after the event, growing trees or flowers as a symbolic way to extend the festival's environmental impact
Additionally, by choosing a mountainous location with natural water sources, Vir Festival avoids the infrastructure strain and environmental damage commonly associated with large- scale urban events.
Vir Festival follows a sustainability-first approach, blending eco-conscious event management with community engagement and cultural exchange. The key elements of the methodology are:
1.Sustainability Integration:
- Eco-Friendly Practices: The festival prioritizes waste reduction, using biodegradable wristbands, upcycled décor, and composting toilets. The goal is to minimize environmental impact while promoting green practices.
- Nature Preservation: Proceeds are reinvested into Mount Kožuf, funding eco-structures like wooden rest areas and creative hubs, ensuring long-term benefits for the region.
Water and Energy Conservation:Using natural water sources and renewable energy minimizes the festival’s resource consumption.
2. Community Engagement:
- Local Involvement: The festival engages local businesses, artisans, and performers, boosting the regional economy and providing an authentic experience.
- Educational Outreach: Workshops and programs raise environmental awareness among youth, fostering long-term sustainability values in the community.
3. Cultural and Artistic Collaboration:
- Regional Artistic Showcase: The festival features artists from North Macedonia, Serbia, Croatia, and Greece, promoting cultural exchange and unity.
- Environmental Art Installations: Art installations by local and international artists reflect the themes of nature and sustainability.
4.Replicability and Innovation:
- The festival serves as a model for future eco-friendly events, with practices that can be adapted to other mountain locations.
5.Monitoring and Evaluation:
- An impact assessment will be conducted to evaluate environmental success, community feedback, and sustainability goals.
This approach ensures that the Vir creates lasting, positive change while offering a unique cultural and eco-friendly experience.
1.Sustainability Integration:
- Eco-Friendly Practices: The festival prioritizes waste reduction, using biodegradable wristbands, upcycled décor, and composting toilets. The goal is to minimize environmental impact while promoting green practices.
- Nature Preservation: Proceeds are reinvested into Mount Kožuf, funding eco-structures like wooden rest areas and creative hubs, ensuring long-term benefits for the region.
Water and Energy Conservation:Using natural water sources and renewable energy minimizes the festival’s resource consumption.
2. Community Engagement:
- Local Involvement: The festival engages local businesses, artisans, and performers, boosting the regional economy and providing an authentic experience.
- Educational Outreach: Workshops and programs raise environmental awareness among youth, fostering long-term sustainability values in the community.
3. Cultural and Artistic Collaboration:
- Regional Artistic Showcase: The festival features artists from North Macedonia, Serbia, Croatia, and Greece, promoting cultural exchange and unity.
- Environmental Art Installations: Art installations by local and international artists reflect the themes of nature and sustainability.
4.Replicability and Innovation:
- The festival serves as a model for future eco-friendly events, with practices that can be adapted to other mountain locations.
5.Monitoring and Evaluation:
- An impact assessment will be conducted to evaluate environmental success, community feedback, and sustainability goals.
This approach ensures that the Vir creates lasting, positive change while offering a unique cultural and eco-friendly experience.
The Vir Festival model can easily be adapted to other locations and contexts. The combination of music, art, sustainability, and outdoor activities creates a scalable framework that other communities can replicate.
Key transferable elements include the reward-based recycling system, eco-friendly infrastructure, and partnerships with local cultural and environmental organizations. This model also serves as a blueprint for municipalities looking to enhance cultural tourism
while promoting environmental sustainability. By demonstrating how festivals can be both impactful and eco-conscious, Vir Festival can inspire similar initiatives across North Macedonia and beyond.
Key transferable elements include the reward-based recycling system, eco-friendly infrastructure, and partnerships with local cultural and environmental organizations. This model also serves as a blueprint for municipalities looking to enhance cultural tourism
while promoting environmental sustainability. By demonstrating how festivals can be both impactful and eco-conscious, Vir Festival can inspire similar initiatives across North Macedonia and beyond.
Vir Festival tackles the urgent issue of environmental degradation by engaging local communities in sustainable practices.
North Macedonia suffers from severe air pollution, deforestation, and waste management issues. By promoting green mobility, tree planting, and waste reduction, the festival provides localized solutions to these broader global challenges.
Additionally, research shows that spending time in nature significantly improves mental health, reduces stress, and fosters environmental stewardship. By creating an engaging and immersive experience in nature, Vir Festival helps young people reconnect with their environment in a meaningful way, encouraging long-term behavioral change.
North Macedonia suffers from severe air pollution, deforestation, and waste management issues. By promoting green mobility, tree planting, and waste reduction, the festival provides localized solutions to these broader global challenges.
Additionally, research shows that spending time in nature significantly improves mental health, reduces stress, and fosters environmental stewardship. By creating an engaging and immersive experience in nature, Vir Festival helps young people reconnect with their environment in a meaningful way, encouraging long-term behavioral change.
Following the festival, organizers will analyze its environmental impact and compile a report on sustainability successes and areas for improvement.
Future editions of the festival will expand tree-planting efforts and explore additional eco-initiatives such as building permanent sustainable structures, interactive eco-art installations, and dedicated learning spaces on Mount Kožuf.
The long-term vision is to create a semi-permanent eco-hub at the festival site—a creative space with strong environmental values, providing year-round opportunities for education, tourism, and artistic expression. By integrating nature, sustainability, and culture, Vir Festival aims to leave a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the event itself.
Future editions of the festival will expand tree-planting efforts and explore additional eco-initiatives such as building permanent sustainable structures, interactive eco-art installations, and dedicated learning spaces on Mount Kožuf.
The long-term vision is to create a semi-permanent eco-hub at the festival site—a creative space with strong environmental values, providing year-round opportunities for education, tourism, and artistic expression. By integrating nature, sustainability, and culture, Vir Festival aims to leave a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the event itself.
