Summer of 2025: Friends, Music, and Discovery

We started in Oslo, where Tons of Rock has become more than just a festival for us. Each year, it’s not only about the incredible lineup but also about the whole experience: traveling to Norway, meeting friends, spending time outdoors, and letting the music take over.

This year felt especially well-organized and welcoming, and once again reminded me why Tons of Rock is one of my favorite festivals in the world. From big headliners to unexpected discoveries, the days in Oslo were full of energy, laughter, and that unique festival magic.

Back home from Oslo, we barely had time to unpack before another beautiful moment awaited us — the wedding of our dear friends Flavia and Florin. It was a lovely celebration, full of warmth, joy, and laughter, and it felt so special to be there surrounded by friends. Sharing in their happiness and seeing everyone together made the weekend truly memorable.

Part 2 – Helsinki

Not long after, the summer continued with something new — a long weekend in Helsinki with Cezar, Vasi, and Nelu. It was our first time exploring the Finnish capital together, and we loved every moment. From walking through the city center to visiting sights around it, we combined sightseeing with simply enjoying each other’s company.

Traveling with friends always turns even the smallest things — a shared meal, a funny encounter, a view at sunset — into special memories. Helsinki was a reminder of how good it feels to step into the unknown, while still carrying the comfort of familiar faces by your side.

Part 3 – ARTmania

Back home, our traditional festival season was waiting for us. First stop: Sibiu, for ARTmania. The old city, the warm atmosphere, and the concerts made for a perfect reunion with one of our long-standing traditions. Dream Theater’s anniversary concert with Mike Portnoy was a true highlight, and Sivert Høyem’s performance touched everyone in the square.

ARTmania always feels like coming home to something familiar, yet still fresh every year.

Part 4 – Rockstadt Extreme Fest

From Sibiu we moved on to Râșnov, where Rockstadt Extreme Fest unfolded in the shadows of the mountains. Here, the energy shifts: it’s raw, heavy, and deeply passionate.

Between the intense shows and the cool mountain air, Rockstadt Exteme Fest reminded us once again why it has such a dedicated following. It’s a place where music and community blend seamlessly, and where the long days and nights leave you both exhausted and exhilarated.

Before the final festival of the summer, we spent a wonderful weekend in Buzău with our dear friends Anca and Cătălin, who were part of the collective photography exhibition “Icons – Expoziție colectivă de fotografie de concert”. Seeing their work displayed and appreciated by many people was inspiring. It felt like the perfect bridge between all the concerts we had enjoyed and the art that captures those unforgettable moments, as a weekend getaway.

Part 5 – Posada Rock Festival

Finally, we ended the summer under the open sky at Posada Rock Festival. Smaller and more intimate, Posada always brings something unique — a mix of discovery and connection. It was the perfect way to close the outdoor festivals season, with music that kept us engaged and a crowd that felt like one big family.

Looking back, this summer wasn’t just about the places we visited or the concerts we saw. It was about sharing these experiences with friends, about the small adventures between stages, about discovering new cities while holding on to the traditions that mean so much to us. I feel grateful — for the music, for the travels, and especially for the people who make it all worthwhile.