As summer fades into autumn on Georgia’s Black Sea coast, creative minds gather for the Ad Black Sea International Festival of Creativity, a vibrant celebration of advertising, design, and innovation. Set for September 11 to 13, 2026, in the lively city of Batumi, this festival turns hotels, conference halls, and beaches into hubs for bold ideas. With talks, workshops, and awards, Ad Black Sea brings together global and regional talents for three days of inspiration, connection, and fun, all against the stunning backdrop of the Black Sea.
A Celebration of Creativity and Community
Since starting in 2015, Ad Black Sea has become a top event for the creative industry in the Black Sea region, growing from 250 to over 1,300 attendees. It’s all about sharing big ideas and building a supportive community, with a focus on authentic creativity over flashy shows. The 2026 edition, the 10th, expects to draw thousands after last year’s success. In 2025, from September 11 to 13, the festival buzzed with 60 speakers, 10 contests, and parties that kept Batumi alive, setting a high bar for 2026.
Held in venues like the Sheraton Batumi and beachside spots, the festival keeps things open and lively, no corporate stiffness, just real talks and a shared passion for creativity.
The Site: Batumi’s Hotels, Beaches, and City Vibes
Ad Black Sea transforms Batumi into a creative playground. Events unfold in grand venues like the Sheraton Batumi and Hilton, with stages set up for talks and awards. Smaller sessions happen in conference rooms or open-air spots by the Black Sea, offering stunning views as ideas flow. The main hub at the Sheraton provides schedules and a space to connect with organizers.
Attendees wander between venues, grabbing Georgian treats like khachapuri or wine from local vendors. The layout encourages exploration, letting you catch a talk in a hotel, join a workshop by the beach, or network under the stars, all wrapped in Batumi’s vibrant, coastal charm.
A Line-up of Visionaries and Innovators
Ad Black Sea shines with its focus on creative excellence, featuring speakers from advertising, design, and marketing. The 2026 line-up, announced in spring, will include global stars and regional talents, sharing insights on trends like AI, branding, and social impact. Expect talks that spark inspiration, from campaign strategies to bold visual designs.
In 2025, speakers like Henrietta Corley from AMV BBDO and Tanja Grubner from Essity wowed crowds with talks on gender equality and craft, alongside local heroes like Vato Kavtaradze. The 2026 roster will keep this mix, with workshops, panels, and contests like the Ad Black Sea Awards, covering categories like film, print, and digital, judged by international experts.
Days and Nights of Ideas and Energy
Mornings at Ad Black Sea start with a buzz. Panels and workshops fill venues, where pros discuss industry trends or teach skills like storytelling and design. Attendees sip coffee, enjoy Georgian pastries, and mingle with speakers. Local vendors sell crafts and creative merch, adding to the festival’s lively feel.
Afternoons bring big talks and hands-on sessions. In 2025, crowds loved masterclasses on campaign creation and pop-up markets with local art. As evening falls, the awards ceremony lights up the Sheraton, celebrating top campaigns under twinkling lights. The vibe stays open, no overwhelming hype, just ideas that feel fresh and real.
After dark, beachside parties and networking events keep the energy high. In 2025, late-night jams and informal chats with speakers were a hit, and 2026 will bring more of that creative spark, with attendees and pros connecting closely.
A Festival Built on Shared Inspiration
Ad Black Sea is more than talks, it’s about building a creative community. It hosts workshops on branding, digital media, and social design, plus networking sessions where pros meet rising talents. In 2025, partnerships with UN Women spotlighted issues like gender equality, and 2026 will continue this focus on meaningful impact.
The festival works with local businesses, using Georgian food and wine to stay sustainable and support Batumi’s economy. The schedule balances planned events with room for surprises, like a pop-up talk or a creative brainstorm, giving the weekend a natural, flowing energy.
Planning Your Visit
Tickets for Ad Black Sea sell fast, with delegate passes and contest entry fees available online. Prices, starting around 100 euros, are fair for the industry value, and early-bird deals are offered. Some outdoor events are free, but main talks and awards need tickets, so book early via adblacksea.com. The 2025 festival saw high demand, so plan ahead for 2026.
Batumi is reachable by plane, train, or bus from Tbilisi or nearby cities. Stay in hotels like the Sheraton or Hilton, or opt for cozy guesthouses. Arriving early lets you explore Batumi’s beaches and catch opening events, like a sunset talk by the sea.
Why Ad Black Sea Stands Out
In a world of corporate events and big budgets, Ad Black Sea feels real and grounded. There are no exclusive barriers, just open venues, bold ideas, and people sharing creativity. It’s the kind of festival where you might brainstorm with a top designer, join a workshop by the beach, or cheer for an award-winning campaign. It’s not about showing off, it’s about connecting.
Batumi’s coastal energy, paired with the festival’s global outlook, makes it unique. The 2025 edition proved its impact, with inspiring talks and vibrant parties, setting big expectations for 2026.
Explore Batumi’s Charm
Beyond the festival, Batumi offers seaside beauty. Stroll the Boulevard, visit the Batumi Botanical Garden, or enjoy local cafes with Georgian dumplings or wine. Morning walks by the sea or chats in the city add to the experience, making memories as strong as the ideas.
Ad Black Sea International Festival of Creativity 2026 is more than an event, it’s a wave of inspiration. With its coastal venues, creative minds, and shared moments in Batumi, it invites you to think, connect, and carry those ideas long after the final talk ends.
Follow Ad Black Sea online for updates on tickets, speakers, and travel tips:
Instagram: @adblackseafestival
Zond