KaZantip

KaZantip, often simply referred to as "Z" was a legendary electronic dance music festival that took place from 1992 to 2013 on the Crimean Peninsula. Over the years, it relocated several times but eventually settled in the village of Mysovoye near Shchelkino from 2002 to 2013. Each August, for a span of 2-3 weeks, around 100,000 attendees—fondly known as "paradiZers"—would gather to celebrate music and life.

The festival was renowned for its quirky traditions, including the "viZa" entrance ticket, a penchant for orange-colored fashion, and the iconic yellow suitcases that became emblems of the event. In 2014, KaZantip ventured beyond Crimea for the first time, relocating to Anaklia, Georgia. However, plans to hold the festival in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, in 2015 were abruptly canceled by local authorities.

Named after the Kazantyp headland, the festival began as a windsurfing party but quickly evolved into a techno and trance music haven, thanks to the vision of its founder, Nikita I (Nikita Marshunok). Among its standout traditions was the "Mayovka" or "Happiness Parade" a jubilant celebration of spring, friendship, and joy.

KaZantip was more than just a festival; it was a "virtual republic" with DJs spinning tunes on multiple dance floors for 21 hours a day across a sprawling 60,000 square meter area. Big names like Carl Cox, Armin Van Buuren, Tiësto, and David Guetta graced its stages, attracting electronic music enthusiasts from all over the world.

Despite its remarkable journey, KaZantip faced several challenges. The move to Georgia in 2014 and the canceled 2015 edition in Cambodia were notable setbacks. Yet, KaZantip's unique vibe and eclectic music offerings left an indelible mark on the electronic music festival scene.