Our recent trip to Sziget in Budapest, Hungary, demonstrated perfectly how festivals can counteract some of the woes faced by the human race, in particular the way in which politics can divide communities. With its inclusive attitude and a diversity-focused ethos, Sziget encompasses all that is great about festivals; from life-affirming music to awe-inspiring trapeze acts, there's so much on offer and all of it allows us to escape the trappings of society at large and bring us back to our essence.

Here, we present a selection of photos from the colourful event, which left a lasting impression on us and no doubt many of those who attended this year.