Line-up Info Volunteers Tickets
  1. Deadline subscription 10th of january 2026
A musician plays electric guitar on the open stage.

Open stage

BalhallaFestival will enter its second edition in 2026. As a young festival, we consciously want to create space for new bands and musical talent, giving them the opportunity to discover what it means to play for a dancing audience.

The Open Stage is an essential part of this vision. It is a place where musicians can grow, experiment, and learn how their music sets the dance floor in motion. And where visitors and organisers can discover new sounds and new faces.

What is the Open Stage?

Throughout the festival weekend, selected artists will perform short or longer, danceable sets. Some acts will be stepping onto a stage for the very first time, while others already have more experience.
For some bands, this is the ideal moment to show dancers and organisers what they can bring. For others, it is a way to gain stage experience and receive feedback on their setlist.

Two persons are dancing in the open stage dancehall.

For musicians

The Open Stage is intended for:

  • Musicians and bands who play danceable folk music

  • Both beginner and experienced performers

  • Artists who want to learn what it’s like to play for an active dancing audience

No stage experience? No problem. The Open Stage is a learning environment in a warm festival atmosphere.

Practical Information

📅 BalhallaFestival 2026: 27 February – 1 March
📍 Sport Vlaanderen Gent
🗓 Open Stage application deadline: 10 January 2026

You can apply here:
https://forms.gle/724PTniKXhn1nNDQ7

Selected acts will be scheduled throughout the festival weekend.

Two people play music (keyboard and nyckelharpa) on an open stage stage.
Several people dance in a chain in the open stage hall.
Two people dance together in the open stage hall.
Deux personnes dansent ensemble dans la salle de l’open stage.
Many different musicians are on the open stage. Several couples are dancing together on the dance floor.
Three musicians play music (accordion, guitar, and electric guitar) on the open stage.