About
The OFF Festival is a music festival that takes place annually in Katowice, Poland. Since its inauguration, it has been known for showcasing an eclectic mix of artists and bands from different genres, with a particular emphasis on alternative, independent, and experimental music.
History
The OFF Festival was founded in 2006 by Artur Rojek, the former leader of the popular Polish alternative band Myslovitz. It originally took place in Mysłowice before moving to Katowice’s Valley of Three Ponds (Dolina Trzech Stawów) in 2010. Over the years, the festival has steadily grown in size and prestige, attracting an increasingly international audience and a wide array of critically acclaimed performers from around the globe.
Artists Who Have Played There
The OFF Festival has hosted a number of notable international and Polish artists. Past lineups have included acts like PJ Harvey, Iggy Pop, The National, Run the Jewels, Anohni, My Bloody Valentine, Janelle Monáe, and Ariel Pink. The festival also provides a platform for up-and-coming artists, and it has been instrumental in boosting the profiles of numerous emerging performers.
Facilities
The festival is held in the beautiful natural surroundings of the Valley of Three Ponds, which provides ample space for multiple stages and other facilities. These include a variety of food and drink stalls offering everything from local Polish cuisine to vegan and vegetarian options.
There are also market stalls selling arts and crafts, records, and festival merchandise. The festival provides clean and well-maintained sanitary facilities, medical aid stations, and has a strong security presence to ensure the safety of attendees. In recent years, the festival has also made a point of being environmentally friendly, implementing recycling initiatives and encouraging sustainable practices.
Accommodation & Camping
For accommodation, festival-goers have several options. There is a designated camping area located near the festival grounds where attendees can pitch their own tents. The campsite offers sanitary facilities, security, and even a small shop for basic necessities. For those who prefer a more comfortable stay, there are numerous hotels in Katowice, ranging from budget options to luxury accommodations.
How to Get There
Katowice is easily accessible from various parts of Europe. The city has an international airport (Katowice International Airport) that is well-connected to many major European cities. From the airport, you can take a bus, taxi, or rental car to the city center.
The festival grounds in the Valley of Three Ponds are about a 15-minute drive from the city center. There are also public transportation options available, including buses and trams. During the festival, special shuttle buses often run from the city center to the festival site.
For those who are driving, there are signposts directing to the festival and parking facilities available. Katowice is also well-connected by train to other major Polish cities and neighboring countries.
