The first wave of acts for Kazantip 2012 has been announced.

The annual event on the Crimean Black Sea in the Ukraine will take place from July 31st to August 18th this year. 2012 marks its 20th anniversary. The event styles itself as a "republic" rather than a festival proper. The press release describes it as "a stable democracy with its own constitution that guarantees rights and freedoms to every citizen," with its attendees as "republicans." Festivities begin on the 31st, where republicans can organize and celebrate on the festival site for five days before the opening party (or "Apotheosis") on August 4. The tickets are styled as "republican visas," good for entry for the entire duration of the event. The site will feature six dance floors, 30 bars and restaurants, "various weird architectural structures," two open air cinemas, and even three "kitesurfing stations." In addition to the musical events, after the closing party on August 11th, the festival's final stage commences with the Z Games, where over 100 athletes compete in kitesurfing and kiteboarding, the "national sport of the republic."

Acts featured during the week of music from August 4th to 11th include progressive house veterans Sasha and James Zabiela, Detroit techno DJ Kenny Larkin, minimal jocks Dubfire and Ambivalent, electro/techno denizens Miss Kittin and Tiga, and plenty more. In addition to the DJ lineup, the "Live On Mars" area will also run from August 2nd to 11th, featuring all live acts like Denmark's Vinnie Who and the UK's Killaflaw.

• Jul 31  Kazantip 2012, Kazantip Republic, Rest of Russia