The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2025, running from June 17 to 21, features a vibrant informal program of exclusive events and parties, though some attendees feel it has lost some of its past exuberance. Access to these events is strictly controlled via invitation lists and QR codes.

The program includes a wide range of entertainment, from concerts by popular Russian artists to receptions hosted by major corporations and government entities.

VIP guests and investors can expect receptions and parties, including a celebration for the “Alibi.Ru” legal holding, a GR Club Moscow party, and a reception from Rosgeologia. A VIP reception on a boat from ATOMIS CAPITAL, a Skolkovo graduates meeting, and a chess evening are also scheduled.

On Wednesday, June 18, events include the “Champion” sports and business award, receptions from the Moscow Exchange and Sber, and a reception from Bahrain, the forum’s guest country. Alfa-Bank will host an exclusive reception at Il Lago dei Cigni restaurant with performances by Grigory Leps, A’Studio, and a secret guest.

Thursday, June 19, will feature a VTB reception at the Mikhailovsky Palace, receptions from PSB, Rostelecom, St. Petersburg Bank, and Channel One, and concerts by Vyacheslav Butusov, Garik Sukachev, and Alexander Sklyar.

Friday, June 20, includes a concert on Palace Square, the Governor’s reception, and receptions by Sovcombank and Wildberries. VTB will host a chamber reception, and Club Ibiza will host a pre-party for the business club regatta.

Saturday, June 21, marks the finals of the RKG Cups in golf, tennis, and show jumping, along with the “Vedomosti” business regatta. A Rumberg Capital reception with a ballet performance and Anna Asti’s show at the “SKA Arena” are also planned.

Performers at SPIEF command significant fees, with top artists receiving between 8 and 20 million rubles for 45-50 minute sets. Second-tier artists earn between 1.2 and 1.5 million rubles. Rising equipment and logistics costs, along with a smaller pool of available performers, contribute to these high prices.

For many years, SPIEF has been known for its lavish parties. Past forums featured concerts by international stars, receptions in historical buildings, and extravagant displays of wealth, but recent years have seen a shift towards more sporting events and fewer global headliners.