Info & FAQs
OUR STORY
MadFest was never created to become the biggest festival.
It was created to become a meaningful one.
Like many people growing up in Crete, we spent years watching thousands of visitors arrive on the island every summer. Most experienced its beaches, resorts and nightlife. Very few experienced the mountains, the villages, the stories and the culture that make Crete unique.
We believed there was another side of the island worth sharing.
A side that feels more authentic.
More connected to nature.
More connected to people.
MadFest became our way of bringing these worlds together.
WHY EMPROSNEROS?
When we first discovered the stone amphitheater of Emprosneros, we immediately knew it was special.
Not because it was the biggest venue. Not because it had the most advanced facilities. But because it felt different.
Surrounded by mountains, trees and traditional villages, it offered something modern festivals rarely have:
A sense of place.
The venue doesn’t feel separated from its environment. It feels like it belongs there. And because of that, every event feels connected to the landscape around it.
THE MADARES
The name MadFest comes from the Madares, the White Mountains of Crete. For generations, these mountains have shaped the identity of the island. They have witnessed migrations, revolutions, celebrations, traditions and countless human stories.
People often speak about Crete’s beaches. But the soul of Crete has always lived in its mountains.
That spirit of independence, resilience and authenticity continues to inspire everything we create.
OLD SOULS. NEW GENERATIONS.
We are fascinated by contrasts. Traditional villages and modern culture. Ancient stories and contemporary creativity. Local traditions and international communities.
MadFest exists somewhere in between. We do not try to recreate the past. And we do not ignore it.
Instead, we use it as inspiration to create something new. A place where different generations, cultures and artistic expressions can coexist.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
We believe music is more than entertainment. Art is more than decoration. Festivals are more than events.
The best experiences happen when people feel connected. Not only to the music, but also to the place, the atmosphere and the people around them.
That is why MadFest combines multiple genres, workshops, performances and artistic disciplines. Not because variety is trendy. Because creativity has many forms.
A CELEBRATION OF HUMAN EXPRESSION
Every year, artists, musicians, performers and visitors arrive from different backgrounds and different parts of the world. For three days, labels disappear.
The DJ stands next to the traveler. The local villager stands next to the international visitor. The artist stands next to the audience.
Everyone becomes part of the same story. And perhaps that is what festivals were always meant to be. Not escapes from reality. But reminders of what reality can be when people come together.
THE FUTURE
MadFest is still growing. Every year brings new ideas, new artists and new experiences. But the vision remains unchanged:
To create a festival that feels authentic to Crete, meaningful to its visitors and unforgettable to everyone who becomes part of it.
Because some places host events. Others create memories.
We hope MadFest becomes one of them.
Previous Years
FAQs
MadFest takes place at the Stone Amphitheater of Emprosneros in Crete, Greece. Check the Location tab for directions.
MadFest combines electronic music, house, techno, underground sounds and rock live music performances.
Yes. Workshops and creative activities are included during the daytime before the music program begins.
Certain daytime activities may be suitable for all ages, but nighttime festival programming is primarily designed for adults.
You can arrive from Chania, Rethymno or Heraklion by car, bus or taxi. For more info check our Travel Tab
Yes. Transport and shuttle details will be announced before the festival.
Yes. There are multiple accommodation options around Apokoronas, Vamos and Chania.
Public tickets go live on 1 July 2026.
Before that, MadFest Tribe members will receive an email with exclusive access to a limited number of discounted tickets 72 hours prior to the public release.
Sign up below and be among the first to enter.
Tickets will be released in 4 phases, with each phase offering a limited allocation at a different price point.
Once a phase sells out, the next pricing tier becomes available.
The earliest tickets will be the most affordable.