What is Open’er Festival?
Open’er Festival is one of Poland’s most celebrated music festivals, held annually in Gdynia, a coastal city on the Baltic Sea. Known for its diverse lineup that includes rock, pop, hip-hop, electronic, and alternative music, Open’er attracts music fans from across Europe and beyond. The festival takes place over several days in early July and offers an eclectic mix of international stars and emerging artists, set against the scenic backdrop of Gdynia’s beaches and forests.
Where is it Held?
The festival is held at Gdynia-Kosakowo Airport, just a short distance from Gdynia’s city center. The location provides ample space for multiple stages, art installations, food vendors, and camping areas, creating a vibrant festival atmosphere. Gdynia, part of the Tricity metropolitan area along with Gdańsk and Sopot, offers visitors a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, making it an ideal setting for a summer music festival.
History of Open’er Festival
Open’er Festival was first held in 2002 and has since grown into one of the most important music festivals in Eastern Europe. Initially starting as a one-day event in Warsaw, it quickly gained popularity and moved to Gdynia in 2003 to accommodate its expanding audience. Over the years, Open’er has hosted performances by some of the biggest names in music, including Coldplay, Radiohead, and Kendrick Lamar. The festival is also known for its commitment to sustainability and social causes, often featuring workshops and exhibitions alongside the music performances.
Getting There by Air
Traveling to Open’er Festival in Gdynia by air is the most convenient option for international festival-goers. The closest major airport is Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN), which serves the Tricity area, including Gdynia, Gdańsk, and Sopot.
Major Airport Serving Open’er Festival 2024
Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (GDN)
- Location: Approximately 23 kilometers southwest of Gdynia.
- Connection: Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport is the main international gateway to the Tricity area and provides easy access to Gdynia, the festival’s host city.
- Transfer Options: After arriving at Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport, there are several ways to reach Gdynia and the festival site:
- Train: The SKM (Fast Urban Railway) provides regular services from the airport to Gdynia, with the journey taking about 30 minutes.
- Bus: Direct buses and shuttles operate between the airport and Gdynia, especially during the festival period. These buses are an affordable and convenient option.
- Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport and offer a direct route to Gdynia, taking around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Rental Cars: Renting a car is an option for those who prefer to explore the Tricity area at their own pace. Car rentals are available at the airport, though parking near the festival can be limited.
Flights to Gdańsk
- From Europe: Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport is well-connected to major cities across Europe, with budget airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, and EasyJet offering frequent flights from destinations such as London, Berlin, and Paris.
- From North America: While there are no direct flights from North America to Gdańsk, travelers can easily connect through major European hubs like Frankfurt, Amsterdam, or Copenhagen.
- From Asia and Oceania: Travelers from Asia and Oceania can connect to Gdańsk via European cities like Warsaw, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam, with airlines such as LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, and KLM.
Transportation from the Airport to Open’er Festival Venue
- Train and Bus: The SKM train line and local buses offer easy connections from the airport to Gdynia’s city center. From there, festival-goers can use shuttle buses provided by the festival or take local transport to reach the festival grounds at Gdynia-Kosakowo Airport.
- Taxi: A taxi from Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport to the festival site is a convenient option, especially for those traveling with luggage. The journey typically takes less than 30 minutes.
- Shuttle Services: During the festival, Open’er often arranges shuttle services from key points in Gdynia and nearby areas directly to the festival entrance.
Accommodation
Gdynia and the surrounding Tricity area offer a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and boutique stays to budget hostels and campgrounds. Many festival-goers opt for the on-site camping experience, which allows them to stay close to the action. However, if you prefer more comfort, booking a hotel or vacation rental in Gdynia well in advance is recommended due to the high demand during the festival period.
Conclusion
Open’er Festival 2024 in Gdynia is a must-attend event for music lovers seeking a unique festival experience in one of Poland’s most beautiful coastal cities. By flying into Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport, you can easily access the festival and enjoy a few days of world-class music, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture. Plan your travel and accommodation early to make the most of this unforgettable event.