www.croatia.

hr THE MEDITERRANEAN AS IT ONCE WAS

OF CULTURAL AND
TOURISTIC EVENTS
CALENDAR
2009
 Dear Visitor, welcome to Croatia!

We are pleased you have decided to visit our country and thus learn about a part
of our rich cultural heritage.

Croatia abounds with various cultural & tourist events and festivals all year long.
Some of them are a result of the long-standing tradition and diligent dedication of
each region, some are organized to revive our ancestors’ customs and festivities, and
some follow the contemporary cultural developments. Many of them include creative
workshops where one can acquire many interesting experiences, meet other people
and have a good time.
Having been a part of Europe for a very long time Croatia has numerous and
widespread links and forms of cooperation, and is being visited by numerous interna-
tionally renown artists and performers.

We hope the cheerful and exciting atmosphere of each event will enhance your
stay in our country, and that our hospitality will make you feel comfortable and re-
laxed.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome to Croatia!

SPECIAL EVENTS IN CROATIA 4. - 5. Yours truly,

Croatian National Tourist Board
ISTRIA 6. - 16.
KVARNER 17. - 29.
LIKA - KARLOVAC 30. - 34.
DALMATIA - ZADAR 35. - 45.
DALMATIA - ŠIBENIK 46. - 49.
DALMATIA - SPLIT 50. - 58.
DALMATIA - DUBROVNIK 59. - 65.
CENTRAL CROATIA 66. - 88.
SLAVONIA 89. - 105.
CITY OF ZAGREB 106. - 113.
INFORMATION 114. - 115.
 WORLD HANDBALL
CHAMPIONSHIP
16 January - 1 February
Photo: Croatian Handball Federation
This year Croatia is hosting the World
Handball Championship. Bearing in
mind the excellent results that Croatian
male handball team has been achiev-
ing in the international competitions
for years, it is truly an honour to be the
host of the World Championship. Seven
Croatian towns are going to welcome
the best handball teams. Their encoun-
ters are well worth seeing, so come,
lend your support and be a part of the
handball centre of the world!
HOST CITIES
Zagreb, Split, Zadar, Osijek, Varaždin,
Pula, Poreč
www.croatia2009.com
SPE C I A L EVEN T S
IN CROATIA
SPECIAL EVENTS IN CROATIA
NIGHT OF
MUSEUMS
30 January
Photo: Croatian Museum Association
Forty-five Croatian museums join in the
celebration of the Night of Museums, a
night when museums do not close their
doors after the usual opening hours,
but stay open until late at night. Until 1
a.m., to be precise. This way, the mu-
seums, as a part of the cultural side of
night life, adapt to new trends, modern-
ize their activities, and popularize visits
to museums. In addition, all museums
offer entry free of charge, thus making
their exhibitions more accessible than
ever.
www.hrmud.hr
www.croatia.hr 5
 LITTLE ACADEMY OF
PILCHARDS’ FISHING
Fažana
1 May- 15 September
Photo: Tourist Board of Istria County
You do not need an entrance exam to
enrol into the Pilchards’ Academy in
Fažana. All you need is a sound appetite
and a desire for new gastronomic ex-
periences. A stroll down the Pilchards’
road will take you to restaurants and
cellars that will introduce you to over
a hundred ways of preparing this oily
fish. During the month of May you can
also partake in the special Fažana
School of Pilchards’ Salt-pickling, and
learn everything about packing fish into
tins, about condiments and oils. With
this kind of know-how you will be a
welcome guest at whichever Pilchards’
Festival along the Adriatic coast you
may happen upon.
www.istria-fazana.com
I S T R IA
DAYS OF
ANTIQUITY
Pula
22 - 24 May
Photo: Tourist Board of Pula
The people of Pula are rightfully proud
of their glorious Roman history. Mag-
nificent edifices preserved from ancient
times amaze guests from all over the
world. However, it is especially in-
teresting to visit Pula at times when
images from ancient history walk the
streets right in front of our eyes. For a
few days the streets of Pula are turned
into a stage of a picturesque Roman
theater - the center of ancient tragedies
and comedies. The Arena remembers
its days of glory when gladiators fought
within its stone walls. Beautiful women
wearing dresses and hairstyles of those
ancient times, historical spectacles
of sound and light leave us breath-
less at almost every corner, while Ro-
man feasts and the indigenous Istrian
mouth-watering specialties refresh our
palate. To put it into a nutshell - in May
all roads lead to Pula.
www.pulainfo.hr
ISTRIA www.croatia.hr 7
 MALMSEY FIESTA
Brtonigla
7 June
Photo: Tourist Board of Istria County
For quarter of a century the tourist sea-
son in Brtonigla has been starting with a
celebration of Malmsey, a grape variety
which is of particularly good quality in
Istria. And though Malmsey may not be
the wine which is automatically linked
to the Istrian peninsula, the true con-
noisseurs are fully aware of its superb
quality. It makes one’s palate tingle,
and fills one’s heart with joy. The rea-
son for this lies in the specific method
if its production, where the Istrian wine
makers skilfully combine the traditional
and the modern ways of both grapevine
cultivation and wine production. Come
and treat yourself to a glass, or more,
of this superb wine.
www.istria-brtonigla.com
8 www.croatia.hr ISTRIA
ASTROFEST
Višnjan
21 - 22 June
Photo: Tourist Board of the municipality of Višnjan
On 21 June, the summer solstice, all
enthusiasts of astronomy come togeth-
er at the hill near the famous Višnjan
observatory. The day with the shortest
night in the year which, many a legend
would have it, is linked to numerous
mystic beliefs, is celebrated in a special
way. Astrofest is an all-night program
of music and performing arts com-
mencing with the last sun rays in the
evening and ending with the first sun
rays in the morning, accompanied by
hypnotic rhythm of drums. Astrofest is a
unique event that is proving very attrac-
tive for the lovers of the skies, the stars
and the spiritual New Age Music.
www.astrofestival.com
ZLATNA SOPELA
(THE GOLDEN FLUTE) - THE
MEDITERRANEAN FOLKLORE
FESTIVAL
Poreč, 28 June - 4 July
Photo: Tourist Board of Istria County
In the early summer, Poreč plays host
to folklore groups both from Croatia
and other Mediterranean countries, and
beyond. The program takes place in the
main town square - Trg slobode (Liberty
Square), and it fascinates the audience
by its diversity. The vibrant atmosphere
and melodies imbued with tradition will
draw you into the endless space of mu-
sic typical of this part of the world.
www.musicistra.org
THE LABIN ART
REPUBLIC
Labin
1 July - 20 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Istria County
In July and a good part of August Labin
turns into a veritable small republic of
art. Its Little Theatre, the church, the
old square, streets and stairways take
on the role of a stage. A variety of thea-
tre groups and musicians come to per-
form on those “stages”. The sounds of
“klapas”, of orchestras of classic and
folklore music, and jazz bands resound
through the narrow streets of Labin. In
August, during the Festival of visual
theatre, the musicians relinquish their
places to actors. Do not miss the op-
portunity to enjoy the ambience of this
town which imbues theatre with a com-
pletely new visual identity.
www.istria-rabac.com
ISTRIA www.croatia.hr 9
 EVENINGS OF THE
FISHERMEN TRADITION
Rovinj, 10 July,
31 July and 27 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Istria County
The town of Rovinj remembers the tra-
ditional of its elders through three the-
matic manifestations. Notably, it was
not all that long ago that life in Rovinj
was inconceivable without batana –
the type of a local boat which became
famous throughout the world. To feed
their families the fishermen sailed their
batanas out at dawn and returned in
the evening with their catch. Evenings
of the Fishermen Tradition is a mani-
festation which celebrates not only the
old customs but also the building of a
batana, the launch of which attracts the
entire town to the port. Come and be a
part of the revival of the traditions that
are a part of the people of this beauti-
ful town.
www.istria-rovinj.com
10 www.croatia.hr ISTRIA
FILM FESTIVAL
Pula
18 - 25 July
Photo: Neven Lazarević
Thanks to its showings in the historical
locations of Kaštel and Arena, the Fea-
ture film festival in Pula is one of the
most attractive outdoor film festivals in
the world. In fact, few are the festival
which can boast a stage of such his-
torical depth and atmosphere. Continu-
ing its rich, long standing tradition, this
year the Festival will offer its visitors,
film enthusiasts, various programs of
international and domestic film novel-
ties divided into several program sec-
tions. We would like to single out the
showing of films at Kaštel within the
International Competition Program and
those of the National Program at the
Arena showing the current Croatian
film production. Of course, this year
Pula will once again be hosting numer-
ous attractive film hits.
www.pulafilmfestival.hr
MOTOVUN FILM
FESTIVAL
Motovun
27 - 31 July
Photo: Motovun Film Festival d.o.o.
Over the last few years a particular
norm has become a rule - come the be-
ginning of August every self-respecting
film enthusiast must come to Motovun,
when this small Istrian town becomes
the Croatian film Mecca. Enchanting
and simply beautiful, perched atop
a steep mount, it is an idyllic setting
for the Festival, which has ignored
the increasingly present commercial
character of the film industry. Instead,
it appreciates independent film pro-
duction, in other words, films that set
new standards of innovative and ar-
tistic expression. In Motovun you can
watch professionally selected films
within the current world production of
various genres. The five-day marathon
of daylong film projections will surely
satisfy even the most demanding film
appetites, and the Motovun Film Fes-
tival certainly offers top entertainment
even when your eyes are not focused
on the screen.
www.motovunfilmfestival.com
ATP STUDENA
CROATIA OPEN
Umag
27 July - 2 August
Photo: Neven Gerenčir
Top athletes and their thrilling sport
duals, the seaside and the inimitable
Istrian ambience along with a carefully
chosen evening entertaining program -
all this is waiting for you in Umag, the
host of the prestigious tennis tourna-
ment Croatia Open. The best tennis
players in the world gather in Umag
at the end of July and offer all visitors
seven days of first-class sport excite-
ment. Through its tournament Umag
has proven itself in the international
circles, not only as multi-winner of the
Awards of Excellence for organization,
but also because of its increasingly im-
pressive list of tennis players like Tho-
mas Muster, Marcello Rios or Carlos
Moya. However, Umag offers its guests
more than just sport - in addition to the
afternoon matches, they can enjoy the
beauty of the Mediterranean, the sea,
the sun, and the vibrant atmosphere in
the evening, created by prominent mu-
sicians and singers performing in the
town square.
www.croatiaopen.hr
ISTRIA www.croatia.hr 11
 THE LUNAS ASTRO
PARTY
Novigrad
1 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Istria County
Just picture the town bell-tower vanish-
ing before your eyes, and its place be-
ing taken by the star speckled sky. For
that is what the bell-tower of Novigrad
is going to look like when, using projec-
tors, they immerse it into the infinity of
a starry sky. Lunas is the ancient Celtic
name for the first day of summer which
the Celtic culture celebrated on 1st of
August. In one of the Novigrad parks
dimmed lights will celebrate August
1st, just the way the ancient Celts did.
All those enjoying the things romantic
and mystic should not miss this event.
dlare.
www.istria-novigrad.com
12 www.croatia.hr ISTRIA
THE LEGENDFEST
Pićan
1 - 2 August
Photo: Mladen Sever
The medieval streets of the small town
of Pićan are filled with atmosphere that
seems not to be of this world, an at-
mosphere reminiscent of fairytales and
stories we neither know who by, or in-
deed when they were written. Istria is
replete with such stories, legends and
myths the plots of which take place in
its picturesque forests and hills. And the
Legendfest provides the opportunity for
all these stories to be told in one place.
Many theater groups and associations
come to Pićan to participate in the Leg-
endfest and through their productions
they uncover this world of literary and
folk stories of Istria. During the Festival,
the entire town is specially decorated
with traditional Istrian fabrics, while
giants, štrige - or rather witches - as
some might call them, pirates, fairies
and other fairytale characters walk the
streets.
www.valkulture.hr
SEPOMAIA VIVA
Umag
3 - 5 August
Photo: The Umag Town Museum
Not far from Umag is an archeological
site of the ancient Sepomaia, with ru-
ins of a rustic villa dating back to the
1st and 4th century AD. A mere sight
of those remains from the Antiquity
leaves one in awe of such priceless
cultural heritage. In honour of it Umag
stages the Sepomaia Viva, an annual
event, a veritable festival of ancient
times during which all visitors have the
opportunity to experience the spirit of
times long gone. Dressed in robes of
those times, the visitors can enjoy the
tastes of ancient times, meet gladiators
and legionaries, dance ancient dances
and engage in some antique crafts and
arts. Come to Umag in August and we
promise you’ll forget all about your 21st
century daily routine - at least for three
days.
www.istria-umag.com
NIGHT OF
ST. LAWRENCE
Rovinj
12 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Istria County
In the night of August 12th trails of
numerous comets streak across the
sky. As this day is also the feast of St.
Lawrence, this celestial phenomenon
became known among the people as
the tears of St. Lawrence. And to make
the enjoyment of the sky criss-crossed
with falling stars still more special, the
public lighting on the Rovinj water front
is turned off so as to allow the stars to
shine still brighter. The catering estab-
lishments also turn off their lights, mak-
ing the atmosphere of their premises
romantic, one that imbues one’s soul
and relaxes just about everyone.
www.istria-rovinj.com
ISTRIA www.croatia.hr 13
 THE MONTRAKER
SCHOOL OF SCULPTING
Vrsar
31 August - 12 Sptember
Photo: Tourist Board of Istria County
Usually, an abandoned quarry is a sad
sight. But, if you were to imagine such
a quarry to be opened to sculptors,
and those sculptors be given freedom
to express their creativity in the stone
that surrounds them, there would be no
room for sadness. And that is precisely
what is taking place in the Montraker
stone quarry in Vrsar during the School
of Sculpting. The quarry comes to life,
and out of its unused stone sculptures
are born. Come and see for yourself
the magic of the moment at this year’s
School which is to be led by the renown
sculptor Peruško Bogdanić.
www.istria-vrsar.com
14 www.croatia.hr ISTRIA
DOLPHIN OF
POREČ
Poreč
5 September
Photo: EDCAM - Vladimir Bugarin
For all those who prefer sports com-
petitions in natural surroundings this is
a far more enjoyable experience than
any swimming pool context can ever
be. In Poreč competitors, who come to
find out whether they are as swift as a
dolphin, swim in the sea regardless of
temperature, currents or waves. The
Dolphin of Poreč is the central event of
the swimming festival attracting recre-
ational swimmers who compete in sev-
eral disciplines. The Marathon offers
three options: 1500, 3000 and 5000
meters, but there are also swimming-
sprint race, water polo tournament -
both professional and recreational, a
sailing regatta and the Croatian Jet-ski
Championship. This is how the people
of Poreč celebrate their union with the
sea, the source of their life and liveli-
hood. Come and join them.
www.poreckidelfin.com
GIOSTRA
Poreč
10 - 12 September
Photo: Tourist Board of Istria County
The historical festival of Giostra takes
us back to the distant history of Poreč.
To be more precise, back to the year
1672 when, according to the archive
records of the Regional Museum of
Poreština and the National Archive in
Pazin, a popular fiesta known as Fiera
franca friudana was taking place in the
streets of Poreč. Its participants com-
peted in crossbow shooting, a variety
of dances and popular games, but the
main attraction was the Giostra horse
race. Visit Poreč and experience your-
self this return into history.
www.istria-porec.com
DAYS OF TRUFFLES
12 September- 8 November
Photo: Tourist Board of Buzet
No true gourmet in the world should re-
gard her or himself as such if, at least
once in their life, they have not wanted
to taste truffles - the gourmet crown
jewel of Istria. Truffles, these odd
looking mushrooms that grow under
ground, are a trademark of Istria, and
the folk of Istria show their gratitude by
jealously guarding the recipes specific
to their peninsula. Come November,
however, the whole of Istria celebrates
the Days of Truffles which provide the
opportunity for all to savour the wealth
of truffles in every possible combination
of flavors. There is practically no chim-
ney from which the delectable flavour
of truffles does not exude, and no host
who does not claim that his dish is by
far the best. But do not take our word,
come and taste for yourself.
www.istria-gourmet.com
ISTRIA www.croatia.hr 15
 TRADITIONAL
SUBOTINA
Buzet
13 September
Photo: Foto Festival Buzet
A visit to the small town of Buzet at the
start of September will take you for a
time voyage into history. The fiesta
called Subotina has been held in early
September since ancient times. Aimed
at bringing life to the old-town streets
of Buzet, Subotina is still celebrated in
its original form, successfully taking us
back to the times and the environment
in which the people of Buzet used to
work and live in a long time ago. Dur-
ing the fiesta, the streets are filled with
the aromas and sounds of tradition, and
the locals put on their original folk cos-
tumes, folk and town attires from the
Venetian era. To put it in a nutshell, the
entire Old Town becomes a museum of
customs and traditional crafts, games,
musicians and food.
www.tz-buzet.hr
16 www.croatia.hr ISTRIA
ISTRIA MTB TRUFFLES
TOUR - PARENZANA
CANNONDALE
25 - 27 September
Photo: Tourist Board of Istria County
Perenzana was the name of the narrow-
gauge railroad that, going deep into the
Istrian peninsula, used to provide a link
between 33 places. Today, its former
track is the venue of the marathon cy-
cling race which, due to the beauty and
picturesque quality of its surroundings,
has been included into the calendar of
the World Cycling Association in the
Category 1. Bearing in mind that par-
ticipation in this race brings world rat-
ing points it is expected that the best
cyclists in the world are going to come,
which makes the Istria MTB Truffles
Tours a superb sporting event.
www.istria-bike.com
KV AR NE R
 CARNIVAL IN
RIJEKA
Rijeka
17 January - 25 February
Photo: Sergio Gobbo
A tradition reaching down the centuries
to the ancient times when ferocious
masks, so legends tell us, banish the
forces of evil through hilarious rejoic-
ing, has turned Rijeka into the Carnival
Capital of Croatia. Throughout the carni-
val days the city gates are firmly closed
to any solemnity and soberness, and
are wide open to colourful and carefree
merrymaking. It will be no different this
year. Once the keys of the city are hand-
ed over, the carnival revelry will sweep
the streets and all those who happen to
be in Rijeka. The sea of masks, which
allow their wearers to forget their sor-
rows, at least for a moment, will spread
good humour for days, while the climax
of the Carnival comes on its closing day
when the grand parade - known as the
International Carnival Parade - makes
its thunderous way across the city.
www.ri-karneval.com.hr
18 www.croatia.hr KVARNER
THE FROG-CATCHERS’
NIGHT
Lokve
25 - 26 April
Photo: Bojan Grgurić
Residents of neighbouring villages used
to refer to the residents of Lokve, a
small village in Gorski kotar situated in
a rather wet area full of pools (lokva be-
ing the Croatian word for a pool of wa-
ter) as Frog-catchers, or indeed Frog-
eaters. Once upon a time young men
reacted angrily to such mockery and
many a bitter battle was fought over it,
but with time the folk of Lokve learned
to live with jokes at their account, and
then went a step further by turning it
into their trade mark. Now, come spring
time, they organize a fiesta which cel-
ebrates not only the frogs, but also all
the people of their region. In addition
to a variety of dishes the main ingre-
dient of which are frogs, the fiesta of-
fers what has become its claim to fame
- a competition in frog leaps. Owners
brings their pets and, to the huge mer-
riment and cheering of the gathered
crowd, encourage them to jump as long
a distance as possible. Without a doubt,
an experience difficult to forget.
www.tz-lokve.hr
DAYS OF
APOXIOMEN
Mali Lošinj
25 - 27 April
Photo: Sergio Gobbo
There are only seven preserved statues
of the ancient Greek athlete Apoxiomen
in the world, and one of them - a bronze
statue - was found in 1999 in the
Croatian part of the Adriatic Sea, close
to the island of Lošinj, stuck between
two rocks at the depth of forty-five
meters. The athlete, over two thousand
years old, was lifted from the depths of
the sea and fully restored. Having been
returned to its former glory, the statue
will be returned to Mali Lošinj where it
will find its permanent place in the Kvar-
ner Palace after appropriate adaptation
to suit the requirements. To mark this
significant archeological discovery, the
residents of Lošinj organize the Days of
Apoxiomen, during which the visitors
can view exhibitions of photographs
associated with the mysterious statue
and find out just how important the dis-
covery was to our cultural heritage.
www.tz-malilosinj.hr
INTERNATIONAL
FESTIVAL OF SMALL
STAGE
Rijeka, 3 - 11 May
Photo: Petar Fabijan
This Festival has become one of the
favoured gathering points for the Euro-
pean theatre enthusiasts with a special
love for unconventional approach to the
stage and performing arts. At the inter-
national level, the name of the Festival
stands for provocation and challenge.
Independent theater production has
for many years been in its full swing
and the audiences have recognized it.
It therefore comes as no surprise that
some of the most stirring theatre pro-
ductions have been produced by the
creative energy of small theatre stag-
es. In addition to theaters from all the
neighboring countries, theaters from
the UK, Switzerland, Belgium, Germany
and other European countries have also
performed in Rijeka. Among the many
famous names, we should highlight the
performance of the leading lady of the
Italian Theater, Emmy Dante, and the
winner of the European award for new
theater realities, Alvis Hermanis. We
believe this year’s Festival will surprise
us in a pleasant way with its guest per-
formers and various shows.
www.theatrefestival-rijeka.hr
KVARNER www.croatia.hr 19
 FIUMANKA
Rijeka
12 - 13 June
Photo: St. Valter
The view which will leave one quite
breathless is undoubtedly the view
of the Bay of Rijeka streaked with a
myriad of white sails. Yachtsmen from
across the world gather once a year at
the Great Fiumanka regatta that follows
the route between Rijeka to Omišalj
and back, and takes every ounce of
strength from even the most experi-
enced. This year, a press regatta called
NCPress Fiumanka will be held within
the main regatta. A real must for all
sport & adrenaline addicts.
www.fiumanka.hr
20 www.croatia.hr KVARNER
MEA FESTIVAL
Opatija
12 - 14 June
Photo: David Kurti - Foto Luigi
The magnificent architecture and beau-
tiful parks of the Jewel of the Adriatic
can take you to another world, a world
of fairytales in which princes are still
riding white horses and proposing to
their princesses. And that is because
Opatija is a piece of heritage left by the
Austro-Hungarian Monarchy for whose
courtiers it was the favourite place of
rest. This royal resort has always been
appealing to kings, emperors, princes,
counts and baronesses, and very of-
ten to artists searching for inspiration.
All of them you can still meet again in
the streets of Opatija, should you hap-
pen to be here in the month of June
when, striving to revive the atmosphere
of those days, the citizens of Opatija
don on court attire and take part in the
manifestation which takes their town
into centuries gone by.
www.opatija-tourism.hr
SUMMER IN
FUŽINE
Fužine
13 June - 22 August
Photo: Marinko Jakovljević
In summertime, the banks of the at-
tractive Lake Bajer become the venue
of entertainment events such as con-
certs or sporting events. The hosts in
Fužine provide these events to supple-
ment their visitors’ stay in this beautiful
mountainous region. While the pleasant
temperature of Saturday nights in the
mountains caresses your skin, and
music stars provide a delight for your
ears, the gastro offer including unusual
and mysterious dishes of the Croatian
mountains will attend to your palate.
www.tz-fuzine.hr
SUMMER OF
CULTURE
Malinska
15 June - 30 August
Photo: Nediljko Vučetić
Malinska on Krk offers its guests an
impressive cultural program, enrich-
ing their summer holiday and making
it even more precious and memorable.
Sounds of classical instruments spread
from the Monastery of St. Mary in June,
July and August. Some of the most
talented Croatian musicians choose
Malinska as a place to demonstrate the
wealth of their talent. In addition, the St.
Nicholas Gallery exhibits works painted
by numerous recognized artists such as
Aleksandar Forenbaher, Mauro Stipanov
or Antun Haller. Don’t let your holiday in
Malinska go by without enriching your
soul with a touch of culture.
www.tz-malinska.hr
KVARNER www.croatia.hr 21
 SUMMER ON LOUISIANA
AND CAROLINA
Delnice
19 June - 19 July
Photo: Ninoslav Pleša
Once upon a time, important interna-
tional routes went through Gorski kotar.
In the early 18th century, the Carolina
Road was built as an important route
connecting Karlovac with the town of
Bakar. However, the terrain it passed
through was rugged, which prompted
the construction of a new road at the
beginning of the 19th century - this one
being named Louisiana after Napoleon’s
wife Mary Louise. At the time, Louisiana
was one of the most modern roads in
Europe, and it brought significant ben-
efits to the population of Gorski kotar.
Today these two roads no longer hold
their former significance, but the mem-
ory of their golden age is still preserved
by this summer event. During these
days, caravans of travelers dressed in
keeping with the times travel up and
down the Louisiana and Carolina, music
can be heard from behind every corner,
while the hosts take every opportunity
to ply one with homemade food and
pastries. Come and join the procession
of princes and other nobility and their
sumptuously decked coaches.
www.lujzijana.com
22 www.croatia.hr KVARNER
SUMMER AT
GRADINA (FORTRESS)
Rijeka
19 June - 12 September
Photo: St. Valter
During all three summer months, visi-
tors to Rijeka have the opportunity to
participate in various cultural programs,
which take place at Trsatska gradina
(fortress), built in the place of the former
Roman observation post for the purpose
of defending against the Turkish army.
Within the walls of this historic edifice
a cultural and entertainment program
takes place, hosting numerous famous
Croatian actors and singers. Find your
place, cool down from the summer heat
among the fortress walls, and enjoy the
productions and concerts.
www.bascinskiglasi.hr
SUMMER NIGHTS
IN RIJEKA
Rijeka
30 June - 24 July
Photo: Dražen Šokčević
During the summer months, the
squares, streets and terraces of Rijeka
are turned into theater stages. Popular
town locations, but also places that the
citizens of Rijeka themselves find it dif-
ficult to envisage as a possible stage for
actors and theatre props, are for a few
weeks turned over to artists of a widely
diverse styles of musical and scenic
expression. The Festival program com-
prises everything, from classical drama
productions, premieres of more recent
works for drama theatre and concerts
of classical music, to street theaters
and concerts of pop stars. One of the
crucial parts of the Festival is probing
into the contemporary relations be-
tween the industrial architecture and
theatre, which is why some of the pro-
ductions are staged in the premises of
old industrial plants.
www.rijeckeljetnenoci.com
SUMMER CARNIVAL
Novi Vinodolski
3 - 4 July
Photo: Tourist Board of Novi Vinodolski
In summer months, parades of masked
people make their noisy way through
some of the towns in the Kvarner area.
Novi Vinodolski is no exception - in July,
it opens its gates to the masked revel-
ers and and temporarily cedes power to
the summer carnival. Needless to say,
that is the time with no room for serious
faces and dark glares, fun and laughter
spread through the town like an infec-
tion. Leave your worries behind, hide
behind a mask and remind yourself
how beautiful life really is.
www.tz-novi-vinodolski.hr
KVARNER www.croatia.hr 23
 THE KASTAV SUMMER
OF CULTURE
Kastav
4 July - 30 August
Photo: Vjekoslav Šabarić
On a hill above Rijeka lies the small
town of Kastav, a town of culture and
education. In keeping with this tradition,
summers in Kastav offer a rich cultural
program of quality where visitors can
find a wide range of drama, music and
art events. Numerous plays, concerts
featuring local and international musi-
cians, and various exhibitions enhance
still further the romantic atmosphere
that charms those who come to the
Kastav Summer of Culture.
www.kkl.hr
24 www.croatia.hr KVARNER
LIBURNIA JAZZ
FESTIVAL
Opatija
3 - 5 July
Photo: Davor Hrvoj
If you happen to be passionate about
jazz, then summer in Opatija is both
the right time and the right place for
you. If you don’t see jazz as a com-
plex and self-contained musical form
intended solely for musicians, rather
than a broader audience, the Libur-
nia Jazz Festival addresses you even
more than hardcore jazz buffs. This is
exactly what the event is about: bring-
ing jazz music closer to a wider music
audience. Thanks to this, you can enjoy
the music-playing skills of some of the
most talented jazz virtuosi within the
festival and actively participate in jazz
workshops aimed at demonstrating that
jazz is one of the music styles open to
anyone’s affinity. Come to Opatija and
become a part of the international jazz
community.
www.liburniajazz.hr
MUSIC EVENINGS
OF OSOR, Osor
12 July - 22 August
Photo: Bojan Purić
While walking the narrow streets of
small picturesque towns on the island of
Lošinj and Cres, hearing music coming
from behind closed shutters, seems to
be the most natural thing in the world.
The small town of Osor, which hides
an ancient theater among its buildings,
exudes a special artistic atmosphere.
If you stop for a moment outside the
renaissance Church of the Blessed Vir-
gin Mary in Osor, you will hear music
that seems to have been composed
specifically for that place and that mo-
ment. However, the music will not be
imaginary - a concert is actually given
in the church, just one within the series
of summer concerts given by our best
musicians who come to take part in the
Music Evenings of Osor.
www.osor-festival.hr
LITTLE ROSE OF
VINODOL
Bribir, Grižane, Tribalj and
Drivenik, 14 July - 23 August
Photo: Dino Lovrić
A story from ancient times has survived
among the residents of Novi Vinodolski,
handed down the centuries by word of
mouth. Traditionally, during grape har-
vest in which all the young took part,
special attention was being paid to
girls and which one among them was
the most hard working. Once the har-
vest was completed the prettiest and
the most diligent girl was selected and
crowned with a crown of grape vine.
And the whole celebration of a success-
ful grape harvest was dedicated to her.
The people of Vinodol decided to revive
this tradition, and celebrate their past in
a manner suited to the present times.
The guests to the festivity can savour
indigenous dishes of Vinodol, enjoy the
local eco-products, partake in different
popular games and relax to the sound
of tambouritza music.
www.tz-vinodol.hr
KVARNER www.croatia.hr 25
 THE FJERA OF RAB
Rab
25 - 27 July
Photo: Goran Novotny
The holidays of the St. Jacob, St. An-
thony and St. Christopher take Rab way
back to its medieval past. Competitions
in the ancient games of chivalry are
presented through the magnificent Rab
Crossbow Tournament where knights
compete and fight for the award, tra-
ditionally presented by the Prince Elect
of Rab. The atmosphere is enhanced
by musicians and flag bearers, while
all the participants dressed in medieval
costumes are free to join the great pro-
cession through the streets. The Rab
Fjera revives the memory of what the
town used to be like in the times when
it was celebrating its freedom and its
independent municipality.
www.fjera.hr
26 www.croatia.hr KVARNER
LITTLE ROSE OF
VINODOL
Grižane, Bribir, Novi Vinodolski
7 - 8 August, 13 - 15 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Novi Vinodolski
A story from ancient times has survived
among the residents of Novi Vinodolski,
handed down the centuries by word of
mouth. Traditionally, during grape har-
vest in which all the young took part,
special attention was being paid to
girls and which one among them was
the most hard working. Once the har-
vest was completed the prettiest and
the most diligent girl was selected and
crowned with a crown of grape vine.
And the whole celebration of a success-
ful grape harvest was dedicated to her.
The people of Vinodol decided to revive
this tradition, and celebrate their past in
a manner suited to the present times.
The guests to the festivity can savour
indigenous dishes of Vinodol, enjoy the
local eco-products, partake in different
popular games and relax to the sound
of tambouritza music.
www.tz-novi-vinodolski.hr
PILGRIMAGE ON THE FEAST
OF THE ASSUMPTION OF
THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Rijeka, Trsat, 15 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Primorje-Gorski Kotar County
One morning back in 1291, the lum-
berjacks of Trsat saw a cottage in the
woods that had not been there before.
Frightened and puzzled, they notified
Pastor Jurjević of the miracle, and he
calmed them down, telling them he
knew what it was all about. This hap-
pened to be the Nazareth cottage of the
Blessed Virgin Mary, which the angels
had moved to Trsat in fear of the Turk-
ish conquerors, where it had stood for
a full three years and seven months.
Then came the time for the cottage to
continue its journey to Loreto where it
was destined to be in the first place.
To console the locals, Prince Martin
Frankopan decided to built a Francis-
can monastery in the same place. To-
day, Trsat has its Shrine of Virgin Mary,
known for many answered prayers and
pilgrimages involving many people, es-
pecially on the Feast of the Assumption
of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
www.rijeka-nadbiskupija.com
LIBURNIA FILM
FESTIVAL
Ičići
27 - 30 August
Photo: Dino
Make yourself comfortable and enjoy
the recent production of the Croatian
documentary film under the bright
starry skies above Ičići. This is provided
by the program within the Liburnia Film
Festival - in addition to a few premieres,
all local documentaries awarded at do-
mestic and international film festivals
during the previous year are regularly
shown here. Such a selection provides
the visitors with the best of documen-
taries produced in Croatia. After the
projection, share your impressions with
other people while enjoying the per-
formances of superb music guests of
the Festival.
www.liburniafilmfestival.com
KVARNER www.croatia.hr 27
 DAYS OF THE KRK
WINES
Vrbnik
28 - 29 August
Photo: Rino Gropuzzo
Whenever we introduce our wines and
rich tradition of Croatian winemaking
on the global market, something this
country is very proud, winemakers from
Vrbnik on the island of Krk invariably
find their place in that company. And
they take great pleasure in accepting
this honour. Every year in the month of
August, they invite all those who delight
in wine - either in making it or simply
enjoying a drink of it. The gathering
enables guests to enjoy a daylong wine
presentations and sampling, to buy
quality wines directly from producers,
as well as to taste autochthonous gas-
tronomic products of the Island Krk. In
addition to the pleasures of the palate,
be they induced by food or by drink, one
can view attractive exhibitions of win-
emaking and winegrowing equipment
of the island Krk, and the magic of the
winemaking process that cannot be
found in modern industrial production
facilities.
www.vrbnik.hr
28 www.croatia.hr KVARNER
THE CHESTNUT
FESTIVAL
Lovran
9 - 25 October
Photo: Ana Slamek
The quality of chestnuts in the Lovran
area is known to be among the high-
est in the world. This variety of chest-
nut is endemic to the Kvarner region,
because it is the product of hybridiza-
tion between the chestnuts brought
home from the Far East by sea fearers
of Lovran and the local varieties. Being
very proud of their chestnuts, the folk
of Lovran dedicate three weekends in
October to them - the first weekend in
Lovran itself, and the other two in the
nearby villages of Liganj and Dobreč,
where the festivity called Marunada
takes place. You will find various prod-
ucts made of chestnuts - from the tra-
ditional roasted chestnuts and other
dishes prepared with them, to a variety
of deserts, gateaux and pastries. There
are also other delights to be enjoyed,
such as meads, honey-based brandies
and local young wine.
www.tz-lovran.hr
DAYS OF OLIVES
Punat
10 - 19 October
Photo: Ernest Bonifačić
It is hard to imagine the Adriatic Sea
without recalling the scent of olives and
the taste of olive oil. Olives are highly
appreciated in our cuisine, so it is no
wonder that Punat on the Island of Krk
has its Days of Olives, an event pre-
senting the guests with the complete
benefits of this healing fruit. This is a
unique opportunity for you to take part
in the olive harvest and experience a
small part of the islanders’ daily rou-
tine. While you are picking, the hosts
will serve you a farm-hand snack to
the sound of sopile (a woodwind instru-
ment similar to oboe), while a true feast
is served come evening with the best
cooks from all over Croatia competing
in preparing olive-based dishes for you
to try.
www.tzpunat.hr
NEW YEAR SPEAR
FISHING CHAMPIONSHIP
Mali Lošinj
28 - 30 December
Photo: Miro Andrić
The best confirmation of how highly
the people of Lošinj regard the spear
fishing skill is the monument to a spear
fisherman erected in one of the town
squares. The mild Mediterranean cli-
mate the island is blessed with enables
its inhabitants to provide spear fisher-
men with the unforgettable experience
of competing just before New Year. The
New Year Championship comprises two
cups: New Year Cities Cup and Europe-
an Nations Cup; both cups are equally
attractive because each dive-in takes
one’s breath away and results in loud
cheering by the audience. It is an op-
portunity to celebrate the New Year in
the company of extremely brave people
and a truly sportsmanlike environment.
www.cres-losinj.net/udica
KVARNER www.croatia.hr 29
 NOBILITY FAIR
Dubovac
11 May - 5 June
Photo: Igor Čepurkovski
For two weeks every year the small
town of Dubovac returns to the Middle
Ages. Celebrating the long and interest-
ing history of the town which has lived a
vibrant trading life long before Karlovac
was established, the people of the area
organize a Great fair. Passing through
the streets of that fair one learns about
medieval customs, crafts, arms, games
and food. Costume entertainment is
provided by actors and musicians, mer-
chants and craftsmen who, like medi-
eval court jesters, do their best to entice
visitors to their stands, while knights in
shining armor and soldiers from historic
units fight for their attention. One never
knows, good fortune might decide that
some lucky chap gets to ride a white
steed and free his maiden from the
black tower.
www.karlovac-touristinfo.hr
LIKA - K A R L O VA C
LIKA - KARLOVAC
THE OGULIN
FAIRYTALE FESTIVAL
Ogulin
11 - 14 June
Photo: Ankica Puškarić
A mere mention of the name of Ivana
Brlić Mažuranić brings sparkles to chil-
dren’s eyes. Her name reminds them
of the countless adventures of char-
acters from Croatian fairytales, and
among them Šuma Striborova (Stribor’s
Forest), the playful Tintilinići and curi-
ous Potjeh searching for truth. Ivana
Brlić Mažuranić is one of our most fa-
mous and most translated authors of
fairytales, which enchant children and
delight the adults delight with their im-
aginativeness. And so, celebrating the
life and work of their famous citizen the
people of Ogulin organize the Fairytale
Festival which transforms their town
into a fairyland. Theatrical groups, writ-
ers and musicians come to Ogulin to
perform plays, give cartoon projections
and organize workshops for children,
thus stimulating their creativity and
imagination. Forget about the reality for
a few days and walk down the road ac-
companied by fairies, dwarfs and other
creatures, including of course, ugly evil
witches.
www.ogfb.hr
www.croatia.hr 31
 MIDSUMMER NIGHT
BONFIRE
Banija and Gaza - coast of
Kupa, 23 June
Photo: Vedran Skukan
On the night before the festivity cel-
ebrating the birth of St. John the Bap-
tist, a magical lightshow takes place on
the banks of the Kupa River. The folk of
Banovina and Gaza, each on their own
side of the river, seem to compete in
who will make the most magnificent
bonfire. Their bonfires light up the night
sky filling everyone around with the
sense of the Lord’s presence. Sighs
of amazement spread among the visi-
tors, and carried by a gentle breeze the
sparks fly high into the dark skies.
www.karlovac-touristinfo.hr
32 www.croatia.hr LIKA - KARLOVAC
SUMMER IN SLUNJ
Slunj
July - August
(weekends)
Photo: Ivančica Cindrić
The townsfolk of Slunj spend their
long summer days having fun. In July
and August, a number of sports & rec-
reation events take place in Slunj. The
Summer in Slunj begins with the tradi-
tional games on the Korana River, and
continues with the upcoming weekends
in all kinds of directions - from standard
sports such as soccer, beach volley or
bowling to those less traditional such as
paintball, weight lifting or the mountain
games - the traditional Olympics of old
sports. In addition to all these sporting
events, the locals are also focused on
culture, arranging a whole range of ex-
hibitions, nights of young bands, book
promotions and art colonies. Enjoy your
Summer in Slunj!
www.tz-slunj.hr
KARLSTADT
FESTIVAL
Karlovac
13 July
Photo: Tourist Board of Karlovac County
The Karlstadt Festival encompasses all
the cultural events taking place in June
and July in the town of Karlovac. How-
ever, 13th of July is quite a special day
– the day regarded as the birthday of
the town of Karlovac, also known as the
town of four rivers - which is why it has
been designated as the centre point of
the Festival. And this year the citizens
of Karlovac are celebrating the 430th
birthday of their town. The occasion is
to be marked by a real birthday party
that is going to be enhanced by a va-
riety of entertainment and gastronomic
programmes. We are expecting you to
come too, to wish a happy birthday to
our town and join this wonderful party.
www.karlovac-touristinfo.hr
LIKA - KARLOVAC
ECO-ETHNO
GACKA
Otočac
25 July
Photo: Tourist Board of Otočac
The Gacka valley is a true natural health
resort. The clean mountain air and the
abundance of healing herbs, which you
can literally pick by the side of the road,
are values that the locals have culti-
vated for centuries. Each visit to the re-
gion is a reward for both body and soul,
while the traditional fair in Otočac is an
opportunity to take some of these val-
ues home with us. People living on the
slopes of Velebit are very familiar with
recipes for numerous products made of
honey and healing herbs, various jams
and brandies, wool and wood products,
and the Gacka fair offers them all in one
place.
www.tz-otocac.hr
www.croatia.hr 33
 INTERNATIONAL
SUMMER CARNIVAL
IN SENJ
Senj, 3 - 8 August
Photo: Foto Kebar
For the people of Senj their Summer
Festival is probably the most important
event of the year. For weeks before the
carnival atmosphere penetrates into the
most hidden nooks and crannies of the
town. And when it starts, the carnival
merrymaking goes on for a full week.
The fact that it is taking place in the
middle of the summer gives it a par-
ticular charm. Amidst all the events
that accompany it, the carnival parade
with as many as 3000 masked revel-
lers, is undoubtedly the peak of the
whole week.
www.tz-senj.hr
34 www.croatia.hr LIKA - KARLOVAC
AUTUMN IN LIKA
Gospić
3 - 4 October
Photo: Ivica Šubarić
The beauty of the mountains of Lika
can make us forget where we come
from and where we are going, and their
magic often takes us back to a different
time, a feeling which can also be expe-
rienced at the manifestation organized
by the people of Gospić under the name
of the Autumn in Lika. The central event
within it is an exhibition where the visi-
tors can testify to and learn about the
skills and potentials of small farms and
enterprises in Lika. But the exhibition
also presents some traditional features
of the region such as food and utility
and decorative items that have been
made by the locals for ages. The exhibi-
tion is enhanced by cultural groups and
clubs whose music rounds off the full
experience of Lika.
www.licko-senjska.hr
D ALM ATI A - ZADAR
 FLOWER FESTIVAL
Sv.Filip i Jakov
24 - 26 April
Photo: Tourist Board of Sv.Filip i Jakov
For nine years now the month of April
in Sv. Filip and Jakov is dedicated to
flowers. Come and abandon yourself to
the intoxicating fragrances rising from
the field of flowers and enjoy the mag-
nificent collage of colours. Take a deep
breath and allow yourself to be swept
by the sumptuous beauty of nature
aided by human hand. In addition to of-
fering a fiest for one’s eyes, The Zadar
County Flower Festival also enables the
visitors to take part in the eco- work-
shops, presentations, advisory sessions
and lectures, competitions in flower
arrangements, exhibitions and fashion
shows. A flower has always been, and
will ever remain a gift most dear to our
soul.
www.sv-filipjakov.hr
36 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - ZADAR
FESTIVAL OF THE
ROYAL CITIES
Biograd
27 - 28 June
Photo: Tourist Board of Biograd n/m
Last year, Biograd won the prestig-
ious Silver Flower of Europe award, by
which it was successfully presented as
one of the most attractive tourist des-
tinations of the old continent. Biograd
participated in the competition for the
award with its summer festival held on
the streets of its beautiful old town core
- the Festival of Royal Cities, a rather
unique presentation of sustainable
development. The participants present
old crafts, eco-products and souvenirs,
and the event is also adorned by flower
arrangements exhibited at the flower &
landscaping exhibition.
www.biogradnamoru.hr
THE ZADAR SUMMER
OF THEATRE
Zadar
29 June - 3 August
Photo: Željko Karavida
Historical buildings of Zadar that have
impressed guests on the Adriatic coast
for centuries are the venues of a pro-
gram that will add a special touch of
culture to your summer holiday. The
programe is dedicated to stage pieces,
which means the visitors are able to fol-
low a gripping plot of a theater play one
evening, and the following evening en-
joy a dance choreography. But the Za-
dar Summer of Theatre is just as open
to music, so you can be sure you will
have the opportunity to enjoy superb
performances of Croatian and interna-
tional musicians.
www.hkk-zadar.hr
DALMATIA - ZADAR
THE SEA ORGAN
FESTIVAL - MITRA
ZONATA
Zadar, 30 June
Photo: Stjepan Felber
The Sea Organ in Zadar is an architec-
tural landmark that has become famous
across the world. This is an organ not
played by the skilled fingers of men,
but by the sea. Each wave that hits the
Zadar quay produces a different sound,
composing an endless symphony of
nature, a never ending piece that will
bring music to your holiday. Once a
year, the accords produced by this or-
gan serve as background to the great-
est of Croatian music stars. Performing
on sailboats rather than stage, musi-
cians and singers circle the Zadar quay
playing their greatest hits to the music
of sea waves in a unique Mediterranean
ambience.
www.tzzadar.hr
www.croatia.hr 37
 MUSIC EVENINGS IN
ST. DONATUS
Zadar
2 July - 5 August
Photo: Vladimir Ivanov
The Church of St. Donatus is the most
distinctive cultural monument in Za-
dar. Its magnificence and impressive
acoustics are the main reasons why
such a serious festival takes place in
its premises. The Music Evenings in the
Church of St. Donatus include medie-
val, renaissance and baroque concerts,
thus offering the visitors a chance to
enjoy all the values this type of music
has to offer. The concerts held in such
a sacral ambience also provide the lis-
teners with a spiritual experience. The
melodies reach deep into one’s soul,
their harmony taking us to a different
world. Close your eyes, take a deep
breath, and surrender to the relaxing
energy of the music.
www.donat-festival.com
38 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - ZADAR
THE NIN ŠOKOL
FIESTA
Nin
19 July
Photo: Tourist Board of Nin
The tradition of šokol - a dish prepared
with dry-cured pork neck in the region
of Nin reaches back to the 17th century.
Indeed, the tradition is going strong, so
much so, in fact that each family is said
to have its own recipe for this tasty
dish, and it is this variety that has given
the rise to the organization of this de-
lectable manifestation. Preparations for
the competition begin in January with
the treatment of meat. The competition
is accompanied by a hot atmosphere
resembling that of the biggest sporting
events, culminating with the presen-
tation of the Šokol-maker of the Year
award and tasting of the food prepared.
Strictly guarded from outside world, the
Šokol Fiesta is a unique opportunity to
try this autochthonous dish.
www.nin.hr
SUMMER OF CULTURE
THE ISLAND OF UGLJAN
Preko, Ugljan, Kali, Kukljica
20 July - 20 August
Photo: Valentin Bakota
If you choose to spend your holiday on
the Island of Ugljan, one thing is certain,
it is going to be an active one. The is-
land is teeming with all kinds of events
taking you to a different place every
day. Among them some deserve special
mention: Poetry Evenings at Brižić dvor,
Regatta in Ugljan, the Čeprdljen Night
of Fishermen Lanterns, Boat Proces-
sion and Antiques Fair, while brodettos
and all kinds of seafood delicacies are
available within the Kali Fishermen’s
Nights in Kali. Kukljica has its Festival
of the Our Lady of Snow involving up
to a hundred boats in their traditional
procession, while the fiesta known as
Priješka legrica, taking place in Preko, is
something you are bound to hear about
when you get on the ferry leaving from
Zadar. The temptations full of fun and
entertainment provided by the island of
Ugljan are not intended for those seek-
ing a solitary holiday, but those desiring
to learn about the local culture will feel
as if they were in heaven.
www.preko.hr
www.ugljan.hr
www.kali.hr
www.kukljica.hr
DALMATIA - ZADAR
HOW OUR ANCESTORS
LIVED AND WORKED
Sv. Filip i Jakov
23 July and 6 August
Photo: Klara Eškinja Glavan
Through song and dance the cultural
clubs of the area of Sveti Filip i Jakov
(St. Philip and Jacob) depict for their
visitors life and customs of their forefa-
thers in the area of Sveti Filip i Jakov. A
first-class experience is guaranteed by
performances of a more widely known
culture clubs like Sv. Ivan Glavosijek
from Raštane Donje and Maslina from
Turanj, as well as the local harmony
singing group Cantus. Young talent of
the area is demonstrated by Đardin -
the Students’ Cooperative. Needless
to say, the whole event is spiced up by
local cuisine.
www.sv-filipjakov.hr
www.croatia.hr 39
 CROATIAN
CORONATION SHOW
Nin
25 July
Photo: Željko Mršić
This is a show depicting the coronation
of the famous Croatian Prince Branimir,
which provides an opportunity for all
to learn about the history of Croatian
kings. As a seat of Croatian rulers, Nin
becomes a historical stage setting for
the show. The pre-Romanesque church
of the Holy Cross from the 9th century,
known as the smallest cathedral in the
world, takes one to the ancient times
of royal glory. For it was Prince Bran-
imir who, in the year 879 received a
letter from Pope John VII which, at the
time, constituted a formal recognition
of the state of Croatia as a legally ac-
cepted country of the Christian West.
This production takes us to some of the
very important times in the history of
Croatia, and offers a rather memorable
experience.
www.nin.hr
40 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - ZADAR
KALELARGART -
FESTIVAL OF STREET
ARTISTS
Zadar, 29 - 31 July
Photo: Tourist Board of Zadar
Streets are the place of freedom and
unfettered expression. This is why it
is always nice to see artists and other
creative individuals performing in them,
particularly in the old parts of cities and
towns – like for instance in Kalelagra
in Zadar. For three days countless ac-
robats, jugglers, fire eaters, magicians,
wire dancers, all kinds of performers,
artists, designers and graffitists turn
the Zadar peninsula into the world
which only flirts with reality. The un-
hindered street culture is bound to have
something for each and everyone of us,
so do not miss to award it with warm
applause.
www.rmc-zadar.com
SUMMER IN PAG
Pag
1 - 13 August
Photo: Josip Fabijanić
In August, the small renaissance town
of Pag plays host to the Festival of
Classical Music organized and man-
aged by our world-famous pianist Lovro
Pogorelić. Guided by the idea of enrich-
ing and ennobling both the lives of the
locals and the holiday time of their
guests by quality programs, Pogorelić
launched the Festival that now brings
top musicians to Pag. This year will be
no different, already announced is the
arrival of the Julliard Quartet from the
United States, the cellist Kajana Pačko,
the Brahms Trio from Moscow, and the
Capella Istropolitana Ensemble.
www.pag-tourism.hr
DALMATIA - ZADAR
THE BIOGRAD
NIGHT
Biograd
4 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Biograd n/m
Wherever they are held, the summer
festivals along the Adriatic coast are
something you should not miss. The
atmosphere prevailing at such festivals
cannot be felt anywhere else in the
world, and the Biograd Festival only
confirms this. Come to Biograd and
dance till dawn to the music performed
for you by cultural clubs, harmony-
singing groups and bands. A whole
range of various dishes will be on offer
bringing the original tastes and aromas
of the Dalmatian cuisine closer to you.
The Biograd Festival is bound to relax
you, feed you, and provide you with
carefree fun.
www.biogradnamoru.hr
www.croatia.hr 41
 NIGHT OF THE
FULL MOON
Zadar
6 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Zadar
During the Night of the Full Moon, the
Zadar quay celebrates the happy co-
habitation of the island and coastal
cultures. The harmonious cohabitation
of these two cultures is something the
residents of the Zadar region are par-
ticularly proud of - for centuries they
have lived by trading with one another.
Today, this celebration is an invitation
to all to come and find out what life use
to be like. Public lighting on the quay is
shut down, lanterns and candles are lit,
and people meet under the full moon,
chatting and enjoying the irresistible
tastes of local specialties and quality
wines. The picturesque game of shad-
ows created at the occasion is some-
thing you will never forget.
www.tzzadar.hr
42 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - ZADAR
THE SALI FIESTA
Sali, Dugi otok
7 - 9 August
Photo: German Grbin
When ships from Sali sail into the port
of Zadar, bringing with them the sounds
of “donkey music”, it is a sign to all
that the Sali Fiesta, popular across the
whole of the Adriatic, has begun. Lark-
ing about through the streets of Za-
dar and playing “donkey music”, the
merry parade invites everyone to join
the three-day celebration in a relaxed
atmosphere. The following evening the
mouth-watering aromas of the Fish-
ermen’s Night will make your palate
crave for food. It will not be easy to de-
cide what to try first among the many
specialties like brodettos, pilchards
and tuna dishes, surrounded by the
mellow atmosphere of Dalmatian night
still further enhanced by the melodies
of Dalmatian harmony singing groups.
Sport-inclined visitors interested in try-
ing new and unusual sports will get into
their own on the third day of the Fiesta,
which comes to an end with the popu-
lar Night of Sali when entertainment
is provided by well known pop stars.
The Fiesta ends on Sunday with the
traditional Donkey Race, a spectacular
event and a barrel of laughs.
www.dugiotok.hr
SUMMER GAMES
IN PAKOŠTANE
Pakoštane
8 - 9 August
Photo: Jakov Đinatić
Pakoštane shakes with fun and cheer-
ing when the first competitors some
of whom are not in the best of shapes
appear in the field, be it on dry land or
on the sea and start competing in tradi-
tional games. Games like rope pulling,
donkey race, fetching sea cucumbers
or sack race are always hilarious. What
is particularly interesting is that the
competitors are usually tourists, visitors
to Pakoštane who decided to taste the
legendary Dalmatian competitive spirit
up close. Of course, the winning team
always gets an award which they often
share with all the viewers.
www.pakostane.hr
DALMATIA - ZADAR
PILGRIMAGE ON THE FEAST
OF THE ASSUMPTION OF
THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Starigrad-Paklenica, 15 August
Photo: Šime Strikoman
The magnificent ambience of the Ve-
lebit Mountain and direct contact with
nature the believers experience during
this pilgrimage enriches them spir-
itually in a manner they find difficult to
convey through words. Celebrating the
Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed
Virgin Mary, believers join in a pilgrim-
age to the small Church of Our Lady,
a votive shrine of the people from the
foothills of Velebit and of mountaineers,
which is located on Veliki Rujan - the
largest plateau of Velebit and a place
safely removed from any intrusion by
civilization. Upon their return from the
pilgrimage, the believers are welcomed
with a traditional festivity that takes
place on the main quay in Starigrad.
After being spiritually fulfilled, this is a
perfect opportunity to refresh your body
with some good local food and dance
till dawn.
www.rivijera-paklenica.hr
www.croatia.hr 43
 SUMMER CARNIVAL
IN PAG
Pag
24 - 26 August
Photo: Josip Fabijanić
It should be pointed out that the Sum-
mer carnival on the Island of Pag is the
oldest carnival in the Adriatic. This fact
alone is a guarantee to all visitors of a
rather special experience should they
choose to take part in the Carnival. The
Carnival goes on for two days - the pa-
rade takes place on the first day - and
culminates on 26 August, when the best
and most attractive masks are chosen
and rich awards presented. Cultural
clubs and children’s choirs keep the at-
mosphere bubbling, and those among
the visitors who succumb to the merri-
ment of the carnival are welcome to join
the traditional wheel-dance of the Pag
accompanied by the town Brass Band.
The Carnival reaches its climax at the
closing ceremony when the Carnival
Prince Marko is burnt on the main town
square, which, according to the local
belief, should cast away all evil forces
for the whole of the following year.
www.pag-tourism.hr
44 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - ZADAR
THE ZADAR SEA
Zadar
September/ October
Photo: Filip Brala
What is it like to live by the sea, live the
tidal cycles and depend on directions of
the wind? Perhaps it sounds ungrate-
ful, but people living by the sea want
nothing more. The sea is their life, their
greatest love and their best friend. The
event celebrating the tradition of living
by the sea aims to demonstrate all this.
It is celebrated with pictures, verse and
music, or rather with exhibitions of old
boat models, poetry and harmony sing-
ing evenings. It is celebrated by aromas
and flavours seafood specialties pre-
pared in the main square, and through
the presentation of traditional crafts and
forgotten skills - traditional boat repair-
ing, netting, rope tying and knotting.
And of course, by conquering the open
seas, which you can experience if you
join the Zadarska Koka regatta where
anyone brave enough is welcome.
www.tzzadar.hr
THE BIOGRAD BOAT
AND CHARTER SHOW
Biograd
23 - 26 October
Photo: Tourist Board of Biograd n/m
The autumn nautical show in Biograd is
a place where one can obtain plenty of
information regarding navigation, close
a lucrative deal or have a good time. As
it happens, the events within the show
are scheduled in the way which makes
room for both business and pleasure.
In daytime the show is focused on
professional seminars and nautical
associations’ meetings. But when the
exhibitors close their tents, all available
areas in town are filled with concerts
and similar events, ensuring relaxation
for visitors at the end of a hard busi-
ness day.
www.marinakornati.com
DALMATIA - ZADAR www.croatia.hr 45
 ECO & ETHNO FAIR
Skradin
1 May
Photo: Duško Jaramaz
The small town of Skradin, a distinctive
and romantic Dalmatian town where
people are open and friendly, is situ-
ated at the point where the Krka River
joins the Adriatic Sea. You can enjoy
their hospitality yourself if you visit the
Skradin Eco & Ethno Fair where you can
learn everything you have ever wanted
to know about the culture and history
of the region. The fair presents the tra-
ditional crafts of Skradin, production of
jewelry, folk costumes, handicrafts and
ecological food products.
www.skradin.hr
DA LM AT I A - Š I B ENI K
DALMATIA- ŠIBENIK www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
INTERNATIONAL
CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL
Šibenik
20 June - 5 July
Photo: Ante Baranić
In June and July, Šibenik becomes a
city of children, a city celebrating chil-
dren’s imagination and creativity. This
year, just as it has been doing for the
last four decades, it will once again host
children of the world, surrendering its
streets to their creativity, reminding all
its visitors of how precious the world of
their games, joy and kindness is. Not-
withstanding the rich tradition of this
city, it is the children and the now tradi-
tional International Children’s Festival -
a unique cultural event of world propor-
tions during which the city squares are
surrendered to children and dedicated
to the development of all the artistic
forms of their creative drive - that have
become the trademark of Šibenik. The
festival has three basic programs: a
festival of domestic and international
children’s ensembles, the workshop
program directly and publicly involving
children in the act of creation, and the
educational part where a symposium
addresses issues such as aesthetic
education of children. During these two
weeks, Šibenik should be an inevitable
destination to those who never forget
their playful side, and even more so to
those who have completely forgotten it.
www.mdf-si.org
47
47
 TRADITIONAL DONKEY
RACES
Tribunj
1 August
Photo: Šime Strikoman
Every town has its festival. Likewise
each festival has something specific,
making each of our towns special. For
the people of Tribunj and their guests,
it is the Donkey race, a source of all-
round laughter and merriment and an
event which attracts many people to
Tribunj on the first day of the month of
August. Seemingly an easy task, all you
need to do is get your donkey to reach
the finishing line first. However, you
first have to get it moving, a task of-
ten impossible to achieve, which turns
every ride into a hilarious event.
www.tz-tribunj.hr
48 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - ŠIBENIK
48 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
RURAL CULTURE
FESTIVAL
Knin, Rape
15 - 17 August
Photo: Damir Mijakovac
This festival is ideal for people who are
fed up with the urban lifestyle, who like
a natural environment and appreciate
traditional rural culture. The festival is
fully open and dedicated to stress-free
living with no tight schedules. You can
learn about the rural activities and the
fruits of nature rewarding the human
effort, participate in workshops and
learn traditional singing, playing and
dancing, or you can join the villagers of
Rape in their daily rural chores. How-
ever, if you prefer it, you can spend the
entire time resting under old oak trees
or wandering around wide flower cov-
ered fields. The important thing is that
you allow nature to seep into you and
calm your soul.
www.eu-krka-knin.hr
EVENINGS OF
DALMATIAN CHANSON
Šibenik
21 - 22 August
Photo: Jozica Krnić
There is no place in the world where one
can hear music nowhere near like our
Dalmatian songs. This is only one of the
many reasons why it is so appreciated,
not only among musicians but among
the wider population. The melodies of
Dalmatia are one of the trademarks of
the Adriatic Sea reminding us of waves
hitting the rocks, the sun that burns
our skin and crickets tirelessly chirping
their symphony of relaxation. To Dalma-
tian people, a song is a symbol of life,
their history and tradition. The song of
a Dalmatian harmony singing group is
a sound of their everyday life, but Dal-
matians are not reluctant to modernize
their melodies and adjust them to the
modern pop expression. Find out how
they do it at the Evening of Dalmatian
Chanson established in honor of the
700th anniversary of the Šibenik Abbey
and the official bestowment of the sta-
tus of a city upon Šibenik.
www.sansona-sibenik.hr
DALMATIA- ŠIBENIK www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
MEDIEVAL
ŠIBENIK FAIR
Šibenik
19 - 21 September
Photo: Ante Baranić
The famed cannons on the Šibenik
quay are firing once again, their bar-
rels smoking this time not in anger,
defending the city from an enemy at
sea, but as a part of the Fair in the Me-
dieval Šibenik. It is an event that takes
place through the streets and squares
of the old town by way of which the
locals demonstrate the wealth of their
city’s cultural and historical heritage.
The Fair programmes offer a unique
presentation of life, work and gastro-
nomic achievements in the times when
Šibenik was the largest city in Croatia.
Special attention is therefore paid to
the features of the traditional culture
and old-craft production of Šibenik.
Numerous local and visiting actors tell
stories of the medieval Šibenik, harmo-
ny-singing groups and dancing troupes
accompany the strollers dressed in tra-
ditional costumes and uniforms while
jugglers, fanfare, archers and knights
lark around to recreate the atmosphere
of the fairs of those times.
www.sibenik.hr
49
49
 CROATIA
BOAT SHOW
Split
28 March - 5 April
Photo: Ante Verzotti
For those who prefer to use boats as a
means of transport and are openly pas-
sionate about navigation, the Croatia
Boat Show is a must event. Year after
year it attracts all local and internation-
al boat companies and builders exhibit-
ing their products, vessels of all kinds
and sizes, as well as the equipment
needed by the sea travelers. In addition
to all the details concerning vessels and
navigation available at the show, you
can learn about the nautical tourism ar-
rangements on offer. It is expected to
be the most interesting nautical event
in the Mediterranean.
www.croatiaboatshow.com
D ALM A T I A - S P L IT
DALMATIA - SPLIT www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
“FOLLOWING THE
CROSS” THE EASTER
PROCESSION
Jelsa, 9 April
Photo: Paulo Bunčuga
If you choose to celebrate Easter on the
island of Hvar, you will partake in the
celebration that has not changed for
five centuries. The Great Thursday and
Great Friday procession called Follow-
ing the Cross undertaken every year by
the folk from the interior of the island
has indeed been held for five hundred
consecutive years. This religious cus-
tom provides everyone around it with a
unique spiritual experience. It is there-
fore no wonder the good word about the
procession attended by the inhabitants
of Jelsa, Pitva, Vrisnik, Svirče, Vrbanje
and Vrboska has spread a long way and
attracted numerous believers. Proces-
sions start simultaneously from all six
locations, and though they all walk in
the same direction, they never actually
meet. If you join any of the processions
you will never realize you are a part of
a much greater whole, but you will feel
it in your heart.
www.tzjelsa.hr
51
51
 DAYS OF THE HVAR
THEATER
Hvar
1 - 3 May
Photo: Ivan Lepen - Lupino
The Croatian literature has found one
of its sanctuaries on the Island of
Hvar. Every year, the Days of the Hvar
Theater, dedicated solely to our written
word, take place in the town of Hvar.
For those few days Hvar is totally com-
mitted to the call of the footlights. Nu-
merous plays are given on the stage of
the old Hvar Theater and many other
sites in the town, and the common
thread linking them all is that they are
all adaptations of works by Croatian au-
thors. In addition to their artistic side,
the Days of Hvar Theater have their sci-
entific side because the central event of
the entire manifestation is a conference
dealing with issues concerning our lit-
erature. The results of the conference,
with participants being experts from
across the world, are published later in
a specially edited Collection of Papers.
The sun and the mild climate are just an
additional motive for you to learn more
about the literature of a people that
have many things to write about.
www.tzhvar.hr
52 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - SPLIT
52 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE HVAR SUMMER
EVENTS
Hvar
May - October
Photo: Boris Kragić
The town of Hvar is proud of its art
heritage. The picturesque ambience of
this island town with a millennium-long
history and rich culture has a special
charm to which all artists gladly re-
spond. This is the reason why, during
summer months, Hvar hosts numerous
theater troupes, musicians and folklore
ensembles from Croatia and abroad.
A diverse cultural program within the
Hvar Summer Events will enrich the
days spent under the bright sky of this
sunny island for many visitors.
www.tzhvar.hr
MAKARSKA CULTURAL
SUMMER
Makarska
June - September
Photo: Željko Fistanić
Makarska Riviera is an inevitable part
of our coast for everyone who wants to
experience its charms in full. However,
the beautiful beaches and clean sea are
not everything the locals have in store
for their guests. Spend an active holi-
day in Makarska and enjoy the cultural
programs. For example, you can listen
to harmony songs at the Harmony Sing-
ing Festival with mandolins and guitars,
or you can enjoy theater plays and ex-
hibitions. If you happen to be more at-
tracted to sporting thrills, support your
favorites at the Streetball Tournament,
Swimming Marathon or the amusing
Fat vs. Thin Game. And finally, once you
have fulfilled your cultural and sporting
needs, relax and have fun at one of the
fiestas in Makarska such as the Fisher-
men’s Nights, where every local man
claims his brodetto is the best in town,
the Night of Kalelarga, or the Summer
Carnival.
www.makarska-info.hr
DALMATIA - SPLIT www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
THE TROGIR SUMMER
OF CULTURE
Trogir
21 June - 6 September
Photo: Sergio Gobbo
The streets of Trogir are alive with
a myriad of cultural events all sum-
mer long. All visitors to Trogir will find
something for themselves. Serious art
enthusiasts can enjoy concerts given
by classical and chamber ensembles,
exhibitions at the Modern Gallery, and
theater plays staged within the old town
core. Guests who prefer entertainment
events will be entertained by Croatian
and international stars all summer long,
while the all round merriment is provid-
ed by public festivals such as Fisher-
men’s Nights, when seafood specialties
are available on the streets of the town,
and the fiesta celebrating the Day of
Trogir.
www.tztrogir.hr
53
53
 CULTURAL SUMMER
ON VIS
Vis
21 June - 12 September
Photo: Damil Kalogjera
The Island of Vis exudes a special
Mediterranean ambience. Owing to its
specific position in the Adriatic Sea, this
island has an interesting history and
tradition. As one of the remotest islands
in the Adriatic, Vis has witnessed many
historical battles in the past. The good
strategic position made it interesting in
many wars. In addition to its rich his-
tory, a unique culture has developed
which, in combination with unspoiled
nature and clean sea, makes the island
a true lure for modern-day tourists. The
Cultural Summer on Vis is a festival that
combines it all: music, theater, history
and architecture. The event takes place
in attractive venues: Kut, Baterija, the
Church of St. Nicholas… The island
ambience intertwined with centuries-
old culture provides a truly unique
holiday.
www.tz-vis.hr
54 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - SPLIT
54 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
KAŠTEL SUMMER OF
CULTURE AND ENTER-
TAINMENT KAŠTELA
1 July - 31 August
Photo: Mario Alajbeg
The summer programme offered by the
town of Kaštela is open to all cultural
tastes. Those who love things classic
and traditional can enjoy concerts of
classical music and exhibitions in the
Vitturi castle. Those fond of the cultural
traditions of Dalmatia will come into
their own in the old part of town and
the Evenings of Dalmatian Song where
the famous klapas perform. For those in
search of fun and entertainment Kaštela
has ensured visits by the greatest stars
of the Croatian show business through-
out the months of July and August. In
other words, there will be something
for all.
www.kastela-info.hr
DALMATIAN HARMONY
SINGING FESTIVAL
Omiš, 3 - 25 July
Photo: Vlado Zemunik
Harmony singing has seen a true ren-
aissance over the past few years. Ow-
ing to the numerous festivals cultivating
the autochthonous Dalmatian music, its
popularity has spread far beyond Dal-
matia. One of the events that takes
credit for this is the Omiš Dalmatian
Harmony Singing Festival, which has
fostered the traditional sound of our
coast and islands for three decades.
Every year, the best of harmony singing
groups come together in Omiš - both to
preserve and promote Dalmatian melo-
dies and to modernize them, because
harmony singing compositions attract
more and more young talented musi-
cians bringing a breath of fresh air to
this art.
www.fdk.hr
DALMATIA - SPLIT www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
THE SPLIT
SUMMER
Split
14 July - 14 August
Photo: Ante Verzotti
Come summertime, Split is transformed
into a city of stage arts. The Split Sum-
mer focuses mainly on opera produc-
tions, presenting the Split audiences
with prominent opera productions by the
hand-picked theaters from across the
world. Famous singers appear before
the audience inspired by the ancient
ambient of the old part of the city while
the streets within the Diocletian Palace
provide an ideal sound background. In
addition to operas, the Split Summer
offers its visitors numerous plays, bal-
lets and exhibitions. In recent years, the
organizers have also begun to promote
certain forms of contemporary art such
as jazz concerts, film projections, and
street theater & performances. An ideal
choice for people who like to enjoy both
the sea and the premium art.
www.splitsko-ljeto.hr
55
55
 OMIŠ CULTURAL
SUMMER
Omiš
25 July - 22 August
Photo: Vlado Zemunik
In summertime, Omiš abounds with
cultural programs. From serious pro-
grams, such as concerts and recitals in
churches and the cloister of the Fran-
ciscan Monastery, drama plays in town
squares and various exhibitions and lit-
erary evenings, to public festivities and
entertainment events like the Pirates’
Nights, Crazy Dives, Swimming Mara-
thon, Omiš Carnival and the Internation-
al Labor Day, Omiš offers its guests a
truly wide range of interesting events in
summertime. The most popular among
them is the Dalmatian Harmony Sing-
ing Festival, which is highly respected
along the Adriatic coast, and its winners
invariably achieve superb careers, even
outside Croatia. If you want to see and
hear the elite of harmony singing, the
Festival in Omiš is the right place.
www.tz-omis.hr
56 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - SPLIT
56 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE ALKA OF SINJ
Sinj
9 August
Photo: Sergio Gobbo
As a traditional tournament of tilting at the
ring the Alka of Sinj competition is a living
monument to the victory by the people of
Cetinska Krajina over the many times larg-
er Turkish army in the year 1715. In honor
of this heroic event in their history, the
people of Sinj conceived a game in which
those who took part in the battle played
every year on the anniversary of the vic-
tory. Later, the tradition was carried on
by their heirs and by those who matched
their courage, and so to this day. At au-
thentic locations, such as Grad,the old
fortress of Sinj, the back-up fortification of
Kamičak, the Alka Halls and the Alka race
course - numerous Alkars and their pages
have proudly maintained the three-centu-
ries-old tradition symbolizing bravery and
desire for freedom. The three-day event
culminates with the popular competition
for Alka. Of course, the knights do not fight
each other, they test their skill by tilting
at the ring, attempting to hit the centre of
the Alka with a long spear while riding a
horse at a full gallop.The contestant who
collects the highest number of points is
the winner, entitled to all honors of his he-
roic ancestors. As a reminder to one of the
most glorious events in the Croatian his-
tory, the Alka of Sinj holds a special place
in our programme of culture tourism.
www.alka.hr
PILGRIMAGE ON THE FEAST
OF THE ASSUMPTION OF THE
BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Sinj, 15 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Sinj
Every year, hundreds of thousands of
believers gather in Sinj for the Feast of
the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin
Mary, because this is where the biggest
Marian shrine of the region - the Shrine
of Our Lady of Sinj is located. The shrine
has become the center for all Dalmatian
believers who walk for hours from their
homes to Sinj, a town that wrote our
history of defense against the Turkish
armies. Join them in the all-night wake,
the morning mass and the magnificent
procession through the streets of Sinj.
Join them in hearing the words of the
Holy Mass and take with you the spir-
itual wealth that has lain here for three
centuries.
www.gospa-sinjska.htnet.hr
DALMATIA - SPLIT www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
TEN DAYS OF
DIOCLETIAN
Split
15 - 25 August
Photo: Ante Verzotti
Diocletian’s palace is a memento of the
magnificent history of Split, and we all
know it, but the citizens of Split wish to
emphasize the significance of the 1700
years of their lovely city in a still more
symbolic manner – hence this mani-
festation. For ten days the city takes a
journey into the Antiquity. The streets of
the former palace are filled with stroll-
ers dressed in togas and tunics, the
waterfront provides the venue for the
procession of ancient-style carriages
ferrying Emperor Diocletian and his
suite to the Peristyle where His Impe-
rial Eminence addresses his subjects
– just as he used to so many centuries
ago. The narrow streets are filled with
mouth-watering aromas of the Medi-
terranean dishes – and for a moment it
seems as if one has never stepped into
the 21st century.
www.visitsplit.com
57
57
 BATTLE OF
PIRATES
Omiš
18 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Split-Dalmatia County
In one segment of their history the pi-
rates of Omiš ruled the Adriatic Sea.
Every fleet feared their attack. They
were particularly “fond” of the Venetian
ships which they frequently intercepted
along the route to their trading destina-
tions. Indeed, Omiš was the only thorn
in the side of Venice on its rise to the
world domination. Documents show
that pirates of Omiš were building ships
which remain unique in the history of
shipbuilding industry to this day. Need-
less to say, the folk of Omiš are really
proud of them. With this manifestation
- which also includes the guests from
Korčula – the “Moreška” Society of St.
Cecily, and from the town of Klis – the
“Ukoks” – they pay tribute to their his-
tory, and delight all those present.
www.tz-omis.hr
58 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - SPLIT
58 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
FAROS - THE SWIMMING
MARATHON
Stari Grad
30 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Stari Grad
All marathon swimmers in the world
are undoubtedly familiar with our Stari
Grad. Faros, a 16-kilometer Swimming
marathon held in Stari Grad Bay, has a
worldwide reputation and has attracted
the best swimmers from around the
world for years. There are countless
reasons why these superb athletes
come to Stari Grad - for the beauty of
the route and the wonderful nature sur-
rounding the town, and for the love of
the local population whose hospitality
is difficult to match. Another reason is
certainly the passion of the supporters
who always come in great numbers
and fiercely support all competitors,
thus creating an amazing sports at-
mosphere.
www.hsdp.hr
D ALM ATI A -
D U B R O V NI K
 FIEST OF
ST. BLASIUS
Dubrovnik
3 February
Photo: Sergio Gobbo
For over a thousand years now the peo-
ple of Dubrovnik have been celebrating
the Feast of St. Blasius. It is the day on
which the doors of the City are thrown
wide open. Following the flight of white
doves our eyes reach the heavens,
reminding us of the priceless values
of freedom. On that day the mass is
celebrated in the church of St. Blasius,
from which a festive procession starts
its passage through the streets of the
old city. The Feast of St. Blaisus is
the bridge across which we walk the
centuries of the glorious history of Du-
brovnik.
www.tzdubrovnik.hr
60 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - DUBROVNIK
60 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE FOLKLORE FESTIVAL
“MOONLIGHT SHINES
DOWN ON THE NERETVA
RIVER” Metković, 14 - 17 May
Photo: Ivica Puljan
When moonlight shines down upon the
Neretva estuary, the game of shadows
and light under the bright sky surpass-
es even the most amazing stage sets. It
seems as if nature is playing with our
feelings, showing us how little is need-
ed for the perfect harmony and accord.
The people of the area are fully aware
of that ,they took the natural light as
the starting point of their Festival which
enhances the beauty of Croatian nature
by the beauty of Croatian music. To wit,
Metković becomes the gathering point
for folklore groups coming both from
Croatia and abroad, and their singing
and dancing is a hymn to the Moon
above their beloved Neretva River.
www.metkovic.hr
www.neretva.info
BACK TO THE TIMES
OF MARCO POLO
Korčula
25 - 30 May
Photo: Ivan Grbin
Korčula has an extremely rich history
and plenty of symbols representing it.
Marco Polo, a world traveller and ex-
plorer born in Korčula, is a historic
figure the world owes a debt to for his
amazing travels. The celebration of his
return from China to his hometown of
Korčula turns the town into a magical
small island town from the 13th cen-
tury. The entire town is specially deco-
rated for the event in order to evoke
the atmosphere of his times. Streets
and facades of houses are decked with
flowers, street lights are replaced with
torches. In the late afternoon, the people
of Korčula welcome Marco Polo’s ship
sailing into the port. The manifestation
reaches its climax in a great street fes-
tivity and a fair dedicated to old crafts
like stone carving and forging. Come to
Korčula and we’ll welcome Marco Polo
together!
www.korcula.net
DALMATIA - DUBROVNIK www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
LIBERTAS FILM
FESTIVAL
Dubrovnik
26 June - 1 July
Photo: Željko Tutnjević
The scope of Dubrovnik’s cultural pro-
gramme on offer is extremely wide.
Consequently, the film art also found its
place within it in the form of the Lib-
ertas Film Festival. The Festival brings
Dubrovnik’s public and its guests some
of the most interesting independ-
ently produced films. The Festival pro-
gramme, which includes the feature-
length films, documentaries and short
films, promotes messages of freedom,
messages belonging to the entire hu-
manity regardless of where you come
from. The ambience of Dubrovnik walls
enhances the mood of humanness dur-
ing projections of such films since all
films are shown outdoors. During a
break between two projections, you can
have an inspiring discussion with some
of the eminent guests of the Festival,
film experts who regularly accept the
invitation to Dubrovnik.
www.libertasfilmfestival.com
61
61
 THE FESTIVAL OF THE
GAMES OF CHIVALRY
Korčula
1 July
Photo: Sergio Gobbo
The people of Korčula have maintained
their tradition of warrior dances over
the past four centuries. One of them is a
dance called Moreška, a war dance with
sobres, which used to be performed
throughout the Mediterranean, but has
only been preserved and is regularly
performed here, in the town Korčula.
This is why Moreška has become the
most distinctive symbol of Korčula in
the world. Enriched with a medieval
ambience of the streets of Korčula, this
dance takes one back to the glorious
times of the stories of chivalry. But,
Moreška is not the only traditional war
dance game preserved on the island.
There are other attractive dances, such
as Kumpanija and Moštra, performed
in other towns on Korčula - Vela Luka,
Smokvice or Blato. The dances remind
us that honor and courage were once
virtues appreciated above all others.
www.korcula.net
62 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - DUBROVNIK
62 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE MLJET SUMMER
OF CULTURE
Otok Mljet
10 July - 16 August
Photo: Đelo Jusić jr.
The National park on the Island Mljet
is what makes Mljet the most beauti-
ful island in the Adriatic Sea. In addition
to its natural beauties, its guests can
enjoy the Mljet Summer of Culture. Go-
ing on for forty days in the middle of
the tourist season, the event featuring
numerous guest performances by emi-
nent musicians, exhibitions of works of
academic artists, theatrical perform-
ances and folklore shows enriches the
stay of the island’s guests. In addition,
the event plays a humanitarian role.
The entire proceeds of the programs
are donated to the St. Mary’s Founda-
tion for maintenance of the ancient
St. Mary’s Benedictine Monastery, the
highest-category monument situated
on the Great Lake on the Island of Mljet.
By visiting an event, you will make a di-
rect donation for the preservation of our
cultural heritage.
www.mklj.net
DUBROVNIK SUMMER
FESTIVAL
Dubrovnik
10 July - 25 August
Photo: Sergio Gobbo
The Summer Festival of Dubrovnik is the Ducal Palace – imbue this festival
the oldest and most famous of all the with a very special charm. Needless to
Croatian festivals. From 1956 the Festi- say, this year the walls of Dubrovnik are
val has been building its reputation and again going to resound with the sounds
has, by way of the prestigious Associa- of its long and fascinating history. And
tion of European Festivals, become an again, for the 60th time, the Dubrov-
integral part of European integrations. nik Summer Festival – taking place
Imagine yourself enjoying the most be- from 10 of July to 25 of August – will
autiful pieces of classical music and the draw the very best of the world stage
best of the theatre performances the of performing arts. Once again will the
world stage has to offer, while sitting inimitable beauty of the streets, squa-
comfortably surrounded by ancient city res, parks, palaces, medieval fortresses
walls. And that is precisely what Du- and isles of Dubrovnik become the pro-
brovnik offers. Within its Summer Fe- ud and equal partner to the artists of
stival classic theatre pieces and ballet the world.
performances are staged in the streets
and plazas of this proud Renaissance- www.dubrovnik-festival.hr
cum-Baroque city. It is only the high
quality art that can find its place in this
city built of stone and light that holds so
much beauty. And in that art numero-
us actors, dancers and musicians will
find inspiration for both themselves
and their public throughout the lovely
Dubrovnik summer. Year on year the
Dubrovnik Summer Festival is hosting
the renown names of the world elite
of the art world. Composers, soloists
and orchestras, and their performance
in and among the buildings within the
old city which possess exceptional aco-
ustic properties – such as the atrium of
DALMATIA - DUBROVNIK www.croatia.hr 63
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr 63
 SUMMER IN STON
Ston
18 July - 29 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Ston
The Diocese of Ston is the oldest
Croatian diocese. This is the reason why
each visit to the town of Ston is a direct
contact with ancient times and events.
Situated on the beautiful peninsula of
Pelješac, which has frequently been the
target of conquerors, the walls of Ston
bear marks of the centuries of struggle
for the survival of its indigenous cul-
ture, the results of which are best seen
during the manifestations organized
within the Summer in Ston. In summer
months, the streets of Ston ring with
the sounds of Dalmatian harmony sing-
ing groups and concerts, and serve as
a stage for fashion shows. And bearing
in mind the tradition of shell farming
and salt harvesting, the event offers
just as good an opportunity for a visit to
the Ston restaurants and taverns where
delectable, and yes, exotic dishes of the
Croatian Adriatic can be savoured.
www.ston.hr
64 www.croatia.hr DALMATIA - DUBROVNIK
64 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE BOAT
MARATHON
Metković
8 August
Photo: Ivica Puljan
Through the history the traditional Ner-
etva boat has played a crucial role in
both the economy and transport for the
people of the region. It has been the
main means of transportation for cen-
turies. In celebration of it an amateur
race of these boats is organized every
year .The participants race down the
Neretva River, starting from the town
bridge in Metković all the way to the
finishing line in Ploče, some twenty
two and a half kilometers further down
the river. There are several teams and
some three hundred rowers participat-
ing in the race. The rowers give it their
best, but winning the race, prestigious
as it may be, is not the most important
thing. The most important thing is to be
courageous and willing to uphold the
tradition, to remember the lives and ef-
forts of our ancestors.
www.maraton-ladja.hr
www.neretva.info
EPIDAURUS
FESTIVAL
Cavtat
29 August - 29 September
Photo: Epidaurus festival
In the course of September musicians
from all over the world converge in
Cavtat in order to take part in the Epi-
daurus Festival – a festivity of classical
and jazz music. Alongside the estab-
lished musicians the Epuidaurus offers
the opportunity to young musicians in
the making to have their first solo con-
certs, and to perfects their skills at the
courses combined under the name of
Scuola Epidaurus and tought by their
more experienced collegues. When the
August sun softens a bit, Cavtat be-
comes the musical heaven on Earth.
www.epidaurusfestival.com
DALMATIA - DUBROVNIK www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
“JULIAN RACHLIN &
FRIENDS” FESTIVAL
Dubrovnik
2 - 13 September
Photo: Željko Tutnjević
Can you imagine the honor extended
to the citizens of Dubrovnik by Julian
Rachlin, one of the world-famous vio-
linists when, during his guest perform-
ance at the Dubrovnik Summer Festival
in the year 2000, he came up with the
idea of organizing a festival of cham-
ber music in their city And the idea
has not remained merely an idea, but
became reality when master Rachlin
brought to Dubrovnik many of his fel-
low musicians, including some of the
most prominent names of classical
music like the cellist Maischea Maisky
or violinist Janine Jansen, pianist Ita-
mar Golan, cornist Radovan Vlatkovic.
Enchanted with the atmosphere of the
historic town centre, the most beautiful
stage for playing music, Rachlin and his
friends perform for Dubrovnik’s audi-
ence year after year, thus creating a
festival that, in addition to the friendly
atmosphere, offers its visitors a high
quality experience, incomparable to any
similar music event.
www.rachlinandfriends.com
65
65
 INTERNATIONAL
PERCUSSIONIST WEEK
Bjelovar
2 - 4 January
Photo: Foto video Pal
Rhythm is in the foundation of each
piece of music. Consequently, percus-
sion instruments are most often used
as a group providing a rhythmic back-
ground to soloists, but sometimes also
they create the complete entity of a
piece. Percussion ensembles are very
dynamic and attractive, so it is no won-
der the that percussion festivals are
becoming increasingly commonplace
and popular. One of such festivals is
the International Percussionist Week
in Bjelovar, hosting some of the great-
est percussionists from Croatia and
abroad. Gain insight to the very essence
of music - the rhythm - with the help of
superior artists of rhythm.
www.tzbbz.hr
CE N T R A L C R O A T IA
CENTRAL CROATIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
THE FEAST OF
ST. VINCENT’S DAY
Međimurska vinska cesta
18 January
Photo: Rudi Grula
The people of Međimurje also have their
customs and ceremonies concerning
winemaking, some of them dating back
to the ancient times, some even to the
time before Christ. One of the very old
customs is Vincekovo or rather the Day
of St. Vincent, celebrated in late Janu-
ary, a time marking the beginning of a
winegrowing year. Traditionally, people
celebrate St.Vincent’s Day in the belief
that it will ensure a fruitful year for
grapevine, but today the manifestation
has been adapted to numerous visitors,
lovers of wine and nature. The snow-
covered hills of Međimurje create an
idyllic atmosphere for a daylong walk
during which you are offered choice
wines and traditional dishes of the re-
gion for sampling at every step and all
in the company of the ever boisterous
and joyful local band of mužikaši (musi-
cians).
www.tzm.hr
67
67
 THE ANNIVERSARY OF
THE PEASANTS’ REVOLT
Gornja Stubica
31 January
Photo: Mladen Kukas
Back in 1573, the peasants of Hrvatsko
Zagorje led by Matija Gubec, revolted
against the oppression by their feudal
lords. This revolt is remembered as one
of the most important events in the his-
tory of the area and is celebrated with
numerous manifestations. One of them
takes place at the Museum of Hrvatsko
Zagorje, which is housed in the manor
of the Oršić family, built in 1756. The
space exuding the atmosphere of old
times, is an ideal setting for the stag-
ing of the famous battle. Visitors can
view the original costumes, take part in
workshops and play-shops, and learn
how to handle weapons such as maces
and bows and arrows which were typi-
cal of the era.
www.mhz.hr
68 www.croatia.hr CENTRAL CROATIA
68 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
SAMOBOR
CARNIVAL
Samobor
13 - 24 February
Photo: Goran Ternjej
The most anxiously awaited event in
Samobor is definitely the local carnival,
a rampant manifestation by which the
people of Samobor chase away evil
spirits from the year that just ended,
bid goodbye to winter, and open their
hearts and hopes to the upcoming
spring. Samobor is the carnival capi-
tal of this part of Croatia. During those
days its streets are filled with complete
carefree joy, thousands of masks con-
ceal laughter and merry songs, and
dancing is a way to face new life. On
the other hand, not everything is so
carefree - uncertainty goes on until the
Fašnik, or rather the Prince of Carnival,
is put to trial, which is the central event
of the carnival. In the main town square
a performance is staged where Fašnik,
guilty of all things bad that happened in
the last year, is tried. All the anger, sor-
row and misery is vented upon him, and
then on Shrove Thursday he is burned
in a spectacular ceremony, the ancient
belief being that this rids us of every-
thing negative in the coming year. Once
the Fašnik has been punished a riotous
celebration begins which should set the
tone for the whole coming year.
www.samoborski-fasnik.com
FROM KAPTOL TO
KAPTOL
Zagreb - Čazma
27 - 29 March
Photo: Davor Kirin
Come out into the sun on the first
Sunday of spring, and lend your sup-
port to the tireless runners joining
two cathedrals with their race. Having
started the race at the Zagreb Kaptol,
which is to say in front of the Zagreb
Cathedral, the participants in this in-
ternational athletic marathon test their
stamina on the racetrack over sixty
one kilometers long. The fittest ones
will reach the finishing line, which is in
front of the cathedral in Čazma. Due to
its distance, this race is extremely de-
manding, providing the spectators with
an extraordinary opportunity to witness
the achievements of top athletes. Come
and support the runners and enjoy the
beautiful countryside between Zagreb
and Čazma.
www.cazma.hr
CENTRAL CROATIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
THE DAY OF THE CENTER
OF THE WORLD
Ludbreg
1 April
Photo: Darko Gorenak
Have you ever spread the map of the
world to try to find out which town is
the nearest to the center of the world?
This is not an April Fools’ joke! The
people in Ludbreg have believed since
ancient times that the ancient circles
of the earth have issued from from this
Croatian town, and that all major Euro-
pean cities were situated around their
edges. According to the belief, Ludbreg
has its antipode on the opposite side of
the planet - a small island called Antip-
odes in the South Pacific, which is the
remnant of the ancient ante-Podravina.
In line with that story, every year the cit-
izens of Ludbreg add another tile bear-
ing the name of one of the cities of the
world to their main square. The custom
was established on the Town Day when
the birthday of Ludbreg is celebrated,
and when slices of the celebration cake
are dished out to all visitors born on that
day, and domestic wine of Podravina is
poured directly from the town’s foun-
tain. All who believe themselves to be
cosmopolitan, simply must visit the
center of the world.
www.tz-ludbreg.hr
69
69
 FISHERMEN TO
THEIR TOWN
Koprivnica
4 - 5 April
Photo: Sports Fishing Club Koprivnica
Freshwater fish is a true gourmet
delight and additionally, fresh water
fishing spells a romantic atmosphere.
Finding a good and comfortable spot on
the bank of a river and waiting for the
right one to bite is a form of relaxation
and fun cherished by many who live in
the Koprivnica-Križevci County. Which
is why dishes made of their catches
are particularly delicious, and the op-
portunity to taste some of the best ones
is provided by the Fishermen to their
Town event should not be missed. Up to
six hundred liters of traditional paprika
seasoned fish stew are prepared in gi-
ant pots. The most skillful cooks com-
pete in who is going to make the most
delicious fish stew, and the results of
their skills are there for you to savour.
But do not limit yourself to eating only
what other people have caught - grab a
rod and catch your dinner in a special
fishing pool.
www.koprivnicatourism.com
70 www.croatia.hr CENTRAL CROATIA
70 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE FEAST OF ST.
GEORGE IN TUROPOLJE
Velika Gorica
26 April
Photo: Drago Kolarec
According to many, the Feast of St.
George, the patron saint of land, crops
and all vegetation and cattle, marks
the actual beginning of spring. On 26
April, festivities based on ancient folk
customs are held throughout continen-
tal Croatia. Particularly striking are the
traditional Bonfires of St. George - huge
bonfires, their light turning the night
sky above meadows and hills into day.
Youth gathers around the fire. Girls and
boys dance and sing traditional songs,
while the bravest engage in jumping
over the fire. Come and feel yourself the
joy brought by the beginning of spring.
www.tzvg.hr
THE ROMAN GAMES -
AQUAE ISAE
Varaždinske Toplice
May
Photo: Sergio Gobbo
The famous games of the period of An-
tiquity come to life in Varaždinske Top-
lice. When the Emperor, surrounded by
nymphs, cries out “Salve! Salve!”, the
games may begin and all visitors are
free to take part. However, don’t expect
your ball handling skills to be of any
help here because most Roman games
such as troppa, ludus castellorum, orca
and omilla are played with walnuts.
Yes, walnuts! You will be faced with
tasks such as throwing a walnut into a
jar or bringing down a pyramid. Those
seeking more action can sign up for ori-
enteering. One thing is certain, which-
ever activity you may choose, you will
soon restore energy once you have had
your fill of the dishes prepared accord-
ing to the old Romans recipes such as
the Roman dumplings, biscuits or ham
baked in bread.
www.toplice-vz.hr
CENTRAL CROATIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
DAYS OF THE SAMOBOR
CUSTARD SLICES
Samobor
9 - 11 May
Photo: Petra Zrinka, Foto Juranček
In addition to its Carnival, Samobor is
also popular among gourmets for its
homemade custard slices - delicious
cake made of flaky pastry and delicate
cream. What makes Samobor custard
slices special is the fact that they are
served warm rather than cooled like
everywhere else. During the celebra-
tion of the Days of Custard Slices, the
local pastry shops will serve this pastry
which according to the local custom,
opens all doors. In other words, should
you have a problem or a disagreement
with someone, give them a custard slice
and believe it, the locals say, everything
will be forgiven The gates of Samobor
are wide open to you. Come and taste
the custard slices and have some fun at
the culture & entertainment events tak-
ing place in the main town square.
www.samoborske-kremsnite.com
71
71
 THE FESTIVAL OF
THE IRIS
Donja Stubica
16 May
Photo: Nikola Sinković
In ancient times, the iris thrilled peo-
ple with its beauty. Myths and legends
about it were popular among the ancient
Greeks and likewise, numerous fairy-
tales have through centuries been wo-
ven around this lovely flower. In fact, in
Croatia the iris has been adopted as the
national flower and the Festival of the
Iris, which takes place in the Croatian
Garden of the Iris demonstrates how
much we cherish our natural wealth.
Come and enjoy different varieties of
these beautiful flowers of all colors and
the wonderful scent it enchants us with.
This entertaining event, a gathering of
all flower enthusiasts, will be enriched
with classical music concerts, romantic
floral dances, traditional food and natu-
ral fruit juices.
www.tz-zagorje.hr
72 www.croatia.hr CENTRAL CROATIA
72 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE “SVETA HELENA”
INTERNATIONAL TOUR-
NAMENT OF KNIGHTS
Sveti Ivan Zelina, 16 - 17 May
Photo: Mario Dukarić
Brave knights struggle for your atten-
tion. Their combat is just a part of the
games they stage, so you need not
worry about somebody getting hurt.
However, they still manage to evoke
the ambience of medieval tournaments
of knights. Sparks fly under the blows
of the swords, while the ladies, squires
and pages hold their breath at each
swing. In their camps one can see the
entire arsenal of medieval weapons,
colorful shields and metal costumes.
If you get hungry, you will find refresh-
ment in hot kasha made of the now
almost forgotten cereals or duck with
honey prepared according to medieval
recipes. A siege of the town, rocks fly-
ing from catapults and battering rams
trying to break down the solid town
gate - all this will take place right in
front of you. But you don’t have to be
a mere observer at the Sveta Helena
tournament, join in the games, test your
archery skills, take a ride in a carriage
or get on a horse.
www.tz-zelina.hr
www.vitezovi-zelingradski.hr
DAY OF WICKERWORK
AND FISH
Kotoriba
18 May
Photo: Rudi Grula
The people of Kotoriba in Međimurje
celebrate their two traditions in a sin-
gle event. The celebration of the Wicker
Day introduces the visitors to Kotoriba
to the old custom of making baskets
out of wicker. In addition to being use-
ful, basket weaving is also an attractive
skill of producing practical items out
of wicker. It is interesting to know that
the guests may take part in the basket-
weaving workshops. The people of Ko-
toriba decided to draw attention to the
necessity of preserving our rivers and
freshwater fish species on that same
day, which means that the Wickerwork
Day is also the Fish Day. The ensuing
result of such a combination is that the
event is greatly enriched by delectable
selection of gastronomic delicacies
prepared with fresh water fish - and
all of it to the accompaniment of the
sounds of indigenous folklore and well
as of pop music.
www.kotoriba.hr
CENTRAL CROATIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
THE LOVRAK DAYS
OF CULTURE
Veliki Grđevac
5 - 7 June
Photo: Dragutin Olvitz
As a favorite Croatian children’s writer
whose stories have been a loved com-
panion to generations of the youngest
readers in Croatia, Mato Lovrak most
certainly deserves this event. This gift,
in the form of a cultural programme
organized in Veliki Grđevac, has been
bestowed upon him by the folk of this
town.The event is largely dedicated
to children, and for a few days Veliki
Grđevac becomes the town of chil-
dren who gather in the Lovrak Center,
its concept based on motifs from the
writer’s works. The Kukavica Center is
the venue of various sporting events for
primary school pupils, presentation of
awards and acknowledgements to pri-
mary school pupils for participation in
the I Love Croatia campaign, and crea-
tive workshops for production of tradi-
tional souvenirs and items inspired by
Lovrak’s stories. Come and bring your
little ones to familiarize themselves
with the stories of the favorite Croatian
children’s author.
www.tzbbz.hr
73
73
 THE GREAT
GET-TOGETHER OF
KRIŽEVCI Križevci
12 - 14 June
Photo: Sergio Gobbo
Back in 1242, fleeing from the on-
slaught of the Tatars King Bela IV and
his army found shelter within the walls
of Kalnik - a burgh located on the
slopes of the mountain of Kalnik. The
persistence of the Tatar army in trying
to penetrate the walls and defeating the
royal army was upset by the Kalnik vil-
lagers who sustained the brave soldiers
with domestic plums. The nourishing
fruit gave the King’s soldiers strength
to persevere and ultimately beat off the
Tatar attack. In a gesture of gratitude
Bela IV knighted all the villagers who
gave their help. The gesture angered
the burghers of Križevci, and their an-
ger persisted for years until the chance
marriage of a Kalnik plum grower and a
town girl. Their wedding was the cru-
cial step in the reconciliation. The event
is deemed of such significance that
today, the citizens of Križevci stage it,
and during this scenic presentation the
keys of the town are handed over to the
town magistrate, which is followed by
three solid days of revelry.
www.krizevci.net
74 www.croatia.hr CENTRAL CROATIA
74 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
TERESIANA
Bjelovar
13 June
Photo: Franjo Jagatić
Teresiana is a cultural event lasting
several days, which is dedicated to
the 18th century, the time when the
Habsburg Monarchy ruled the Croatian
lands. Maria Theresa, the Empress of
the Habsburg Monarchy, implemented
numerous significant changes and
reforms during her lifetime. She abol-
ished witch hunts, introduced manda-
tory schooling, and in 1756 she issued
a decree by way of which the town of
Bjelovar has been founded. Today, the
residents of Bjelovar celebrate the foun-
dation of their town with this manifesta-
tion in the course of which the streets
of their town become a large stage for
numerous guests from the world of
music, theater and sports.The most at-
tractive segment within the Teresiana is
certainly the staging of the Empress’s
arrival to town. This play presents the
history of the region at the time Croatia
was ruled by the greatest among the
European royal families.
www.tzbbz.hr
THE SISAK TOURNAMENT
OF CHIVALRY
Sisak
20 June
Photo: Željko Rakarić
The residents of Sisak often recall
events from their long history, a history
reaching all the way to the 4th cen-
tury B.C., when Celtic and Illyric tribes
populated the area. This Tournament,
which takes place beneath the old
fortress of Sisak, under the old Sisak
fort celebrates a single, but undoubt-
edly the crucial moment in the history
of Sisak. The moment when the brave
knights of Sisak stopped the dominant
Turkish army in its march towards the
west. Before the eyes of the viewers the
modern-day knights fight for the affec-
tion of their maidens and the fortress
walls provide their contests with an
original medieval ambient. The visitors
are entertained by renaissance musi-
cians in passages within the fort, and
the youngest warriors can sign up for
the children’s tournament. Forget the
benefits of modern civilization and join
us in a world where chivalry and honor
were the highest of values.
www.sisakturist.com
CENTRAL CROATIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
THE MILLER’S
DAYS
Sv. Martin na Muri
26 - 28 June
Photo: Rudi Grula
Not all that long ago mills used to be a
common sight on the rivers. Bread put
on tables was made with flour ground
in just such mills by the skilful millers.
Today, the situation has changed, and
the number of mills has decreased dra-
matically. Indeed, they are now just a
reminder of the old times when men
lived in a much closer harmony with
nature. On the Mura river, at the north-
ernmost point of our country, stands a
mill known as a unique specimen of
the traditional architectural heritage,
which is also the center of the Miller’s
educational tour, an imaginatively de-
signed promenade through the forest
surrounding it. In the course of the mill-
er’s days, a stroll down this trail offers a
special experience since new surprises
and presentations of old crafts and tra-
ditional architecture await in each part
of the tour. The Miller’s days are an
ideal choice for all nature enthusiasts.
www.tzm.hr
www.eol.hr
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 THE COCKEREL
Đurđevac
26 - 28 June
Photo: Siniša Milašinović
Having failed in the attempt to conquer
the Đurđevac Fortress in a single at-
tact, Ulan Beg decided to lay siege to
the town and wait until hunger brings
the defenders down and forces them
to surrender. When no more food re-
mained within the fortress walls but a
single cockerel, the people of Đurđevac
devised a desperate plan. They fired
their last bite of food at the Turkish
army out of a cannon. Ulama Beg fell
for their plan and, seeing that the de-
fenders are shooting cockerels from
their cannons, convinced they have an
inexhaustible supply of food, he pulled
his army back. While retreating, he put
a curse on the people of Đurđevac, re-
ferring to them as cockerels. Towards
the end of June, the folk of Đurđevac
locals celebrate this legend by a unique
outdoor stage performance. It takes
place at the authentic location, in the
place where the legend actually hap-
pened, and it involves hundreds of ex-
tras, cultural amateurs, horsemen and
professional actors.
www.tz-djurdjevac.hr
76 www.croatia.hr CENTRAL CROATIA
76 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
DAY OF THE EUROPEAN
STORK VILLAGE IN
ČIGOĆ
Krapje, 28 June
Photo: Edvard Bogović
It may be hard to believe, but the small
village of Krapje has more winged in-
habitants than human ones. Krapje has
a population of 120 people and around
200 storks, which are regarded as per-
manent residents of the village. And
due to their harmonious cohabitation,
Krapje was proclaimed the First Euro-
pean Village of Storks. In celebration
of it a manifestation is now organized
within which the visitors can take a ride
on a tour boat or a horse carriage, take
part in a cycling race or take a tour of
Lonjsko polje (the Lonja Range). Those
not so keen on the said activities can
enjoy concerts and a fine selection of
food specific to the region. Come and
find out for yourself what life is in the
village the storks have chosen as their
home.
www.pp-lonjsko-polje.hr
SUMMER IN THE TOWN
OF THE ZRINSKI FAMILY
Čakovec
28 June - 5 August
Photo: Rudi Grula
The people of Čakovec are grateful
to the Zrinski family, whose reign in
the region brought strong economic
and cultural rise to Čakovec. To show
their lasting respect, and honour their
memory, the summer programme of
culture is organized in the town in the
course of which one can enjoy numer-
ous performances and production, con-
certs end exhibitions. In addition to all
that one of the most attractive events
is the changing of the guards, the tradi-
tional Zrinski Guard, which takes place
every Saturday in front of the Eagle -
the monument to Nikola Zrinski. The
summer of culture ends with the Fiesta
of Our Lady of Angels, popularly known
as Porcijunkula, the main parish fair in
Čakovec where the entire population
gathers to enjoy concerts, presenta-
tions of old crafts, art colonies, but also
archery and equestrian competitions.
www.tourism-cakovec.hr
CENTRAL CROATIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
PODRAVINA
MOTIFS
Koprivnica
3 - 5 July
Photo: Tourist Board of Koprivnica
Naive painting is an autochthonous
Croatian style, a style dealing with
motifs of rural living in harmony with
nature and all its beauties. It is the life
of Podravina villages, wide meadows,
forests and fields, which is the main
reason why in the first weekend of
July Koprivnica transforms into a huge
exhibition area dedicated exclusively
to naive art. Benath the clear skies
of Podravina a hundred or so promi-
nent painters exhibit and create their
paintings, celebrating the enchanting
plethora and artistic achievements of
the Hlebine School of Painting.
www.koprivnicatourism.com
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 COMMANDMENT
BENEATH THE LINDEN
TREE
Miklouš, 12 July
Photo: Krunoslav Fučkor
July is the month when the residents
of Miklouš and the surrounding villages
celebrate their ancient customs and cul-
tural tradition. Out into the light of day
come a variety of lovingly preserved old
items and folk costumes, houses and
streets are decorated with traditional
ornaments, and everything is prepared
for a merry get together which they
share with their visitors who come for
a day long stay. While men-folk demon-
strate the use of old tools, women offer
cheese and egg pies and other savoury
and sweet cakes they bake for the occa-
sion. And then, in a festive procession,
they all go to the old linden tree where
the village elder reads them a tongue-
in cheek commandment which, in a
witty and humorous, and yet traditional
manner, comments on all the current
problems and events, thus demonstrat-
ing how people used to deal with issues
that bothered them. The command-
ment always ends with an invitation to
the young to rejoice and chase away
gloomy thoughts by dancing and sing-
ing. And like contagious disease, such
mood spreads to all the visitors of this
celebration.
www.cazma.hr
78 www.croatia.hr CENTRAL CROATIA
78 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
SUMMER WITH THE
NEANDERTHALS OF
KRAPINA Krapina
2 - 30 August (sundays)
Photo: Sergio Gobbo
One of the most striking symbols of
Krapina is certainly the primeval Ne-
anderthal man of Krapina, the Krapina
Neanderthal, a unique source of pride
and a witness of Krapina’s ancient and
rich history. Therefore, a visit to Krapina
is not merely a visit to a town, but a visit
to a well known archeological locality,
one of the cribs of humanity in this
region. In order to highlight the town’s
values, various programmes organized
under the common name of Summer
with the Neanderthals of Krapina take
place during the month of August in
the streets of Krapina. For those who
wish to attend the events within the
Summer, there is a train departing from
Zagreb. After arrival in Krapina, guests
may take a sightseeing tour with expert
guidance, visit the parish fair on Trški
vrh or join the excursion to the nearby
hill of Strahinjčica. In addition, during
the five Sundays in August, topical pro-
grammes are organized on Hušnjakovo:
the Sunday of the Burghers, the Then
and the Now, the Sunday of the Krapina
Neanderthal, the Ethno Sunday and the
Festival Sunday.
www.krapina.hr
DAYS OF NOBILITY
Gornja Rijeka
14 - 16 August
Photo: Antun Premelč
The notion of nobility, formerly denot-
ing the highest social rank, has always
been associated with refinement and
sophisticated taste. The lives of noble-
men and noblewomen of Gornja Rijeka
were characterized by esteemed sta-
tus and their reputations relied on a
keen sense of beauty and justice. See
for yourself, visit Gornja Rijeka on the
slopes of the Kalnik Mountain and feel
the spirit of nobility that is still there.
Resplendent noble gowns flutter to the
sound of waltz, and young men and
women attract looks by competing in
elegance, aiming to be elected the best
nobleman or best noblewoman of the
Sub-Kalnik region. Feel the enchant-
ment of castles that use to be, stiffen
your back and delve into the times
when all doors were open to the blue
blooded.
www.tz-koprivnicko-krizevacka.hr
CENTRAL CROATIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
PILGRIMAGE O THE FEAST
OF THE ASSUMPTION OF
THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Marija Bistrica, 15 August
Photo: Sergio Gobbo
The Pilgrimage to Marija Bistrica is a
magnificent religious event. The Marija
Bistrica Shrine is our most renowned
Marian shrine. Every year, over 500
thousand believers take part in around
fifty traditional pilgrimages starting
from White Sunday in early April and
continuing to Thanksgiving Day in late
October. One of those is the Pilgrimage
on the Feast of the Assumption of the
Blessed Virgin Mary, and partaking in it
is a treasured testimony to the venera-
tion shown by Hrvatsko Zagorje for its
religious festivities.
www.svetiste-mbb.hr
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 ŠPANCIRFEST
(STROLLERS’ FESTIVAL)
Varaždin
21 - 30 August
Photo: Siniša Sović
Year after year an increasing number of
guests want to join the Varaždiners, or
rather the citizens of Varaždin in their
celebration of what for them is, one
can safely say, is a traditional way of
spending leisure time - a casual stroll
through the streets of the city, or as
the Varaždiners themselves would say
- a špancir. Every year, come August,
Varaždin is transformed into a colorful
street entertainment venue for a week
or two, a town of laughter and merri-
ment. Numerous performers, musi-
cians, actors and entertainers come
out into the streets, and the entire town
serves as a public area for presentation
of Croatian tradition. The stands are full
of traditional craft products, artifacts
made by artists of applied arts, food
and beverage prepared in traditional
ways, and various souvenirs. During
the Špancirfest, it is easy to get lost
in Varaždin. Sailing the endless sea of
imagination, and constantly attracted
at every step by a different event, one
does not realize how fast the time goes
by. You can just stroll around the whole
day and then ask yourself how come
it is nighttime already, and why you
have to go to sleep already. But don’t
worry, exciting events await you tomor-
row and the next day, and the merry
80 www.croatia.hr CENTRAL CROATIA
80 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
locals never lose their stamina. This
is why we believe all those who want
to pay tribute to casualness and good
will (and their number is surely great)
will come to Varaždin in late August
because Špancirfest is an event not to
be missed.
www.spancirfest.com
www.tourism-varazdin.com
THE FIRST VOICE
OF ZAGORJE
Sv. Križ Začretje
22 - 29 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Krapina-Zagorje County
The Festival of amateur singers The
First Voice of Zagorje presents the
youngest singing talents of Zagorje.
And considering that Zagorje is a region
where traditional songs can be heard
from practically every hilltop, one can
always count on the new generations of
musical talents.Therefore, do not miss
the opportunity to attend this event,
which will charm you with the irresist-
ible song of a child. The Festival is ac-
companied by an additional, rich and
varied programme enabling all visitors
to find something to their liking - be it
pop, classical or sacral music, be it ex-
hibitions of works by academic painters
and amateurs, be it sports tournaments
and meets. And throughout it all local
caterers will make sure nobody is left
hungry or thirsty by offering a selection
of good food and drink programme so
that all visitors could enjoy the concerts
of profane classical and sacral music,
exhibitions by academic painters and
amateurs, and sport tournaments and
matches. Caterers will ensure no one
is thirsty or hungry and will enrich the
event with their gastronomic offer.
www.sveti-kriz-zacretje.hr
CENTRAL CROATIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
WHAT OUR
FOREFATHERS ATE
Vrbovec
28 - 30 August
Photo: Dražen Breitenfeld
Continental Croatia is well known for the
wealth of variety its cuisine. Each small
town has its own traditional recipes and
a way of preparing individual dishes.
The residents of Vrbovec present their
traditional gastronomic offer in late
August within the manifestation ap-
propriately called What Our Forefathers
Ate. Those are the days when the en-
tire town is simply awash with mouth
savouring aromas of traditional dishes
prepared with a great deal of care and
love so as to ensure they remain a de-
licious memory on one’s palate. The
folk of Vrbovec compete in cooking the
best traditional dishes. Visitors keen on
competing themselves can do so in a
number of sports on offer. Others can
enjoy the music programme which is
also available.
www.vrbovec.hr
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 THE CELTIC NIGHT
Sisak
5 September
Photo: Igor Palotay
When the young September moon ap-
pears and night falls over the town
of Sisak, an uninformed visitor could
think they were in a time loop, traveling
back in time through many centuries.
A faraway past when rafts sailed the
Kupa River, and knights and fairies
walked the streets of Sisak. Don’t get
spooked, it’s just a show. With this
one-hour play, with the Kupa River be-
ing the stage, the locals remind us of
what their town looked like once upon
a time. A procession consisting of five
rafts, twenty riverboats and three hun-
dred floating torches sails down the
Kupa. Scenes from the lives of Celts
and Romans are played out on the ves-
sels in front of the visitors. All vessels
are abundantly decorated with torches
and similar ornaments, and the spec-
tators are guided through the events
by a voice coming from a PA system
mounted on the Pogorelac side of Kupa
where the Celts once lived.
www.sisakturist.com
82 www.croatia.hr CENTRAL CROATIA
82 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE RENAISSANCE
FESTIVAL KAJKAVIAN CULTURE
Koprivnica
5 - 7 September
Photo: Tourist Board of Koprivnica
In September, a true historical spectacle
takes place on the walls of Koprivnica’s
old town. Knights sharpen their swords
inside their tents to win the hand of
their maiden in a dual, hunting hawks
circle around executing their masters’
orders, while tradesmen and craftsmen
shout loudly try to attract customers to
their stalls full of all kinds of handicrafts
and products typical of those distant
times. The streets are filled with allur-
ing aromas of the renaissance cuisine
and exotic ingredients that were once
used. The only rule of the Renaissance
Festival is that nothing should give
away the fact that we are actually in the
twenty-first century.
www.koprivnicatourism.com
A WEEK OF
Krapina
6 - 13 September
Photo: Željko Frankol
During those seven days, visitors to
Krapina will see just how much the ka-
jkavian culture is still alive and topical.
All those attending the exhibition Kaj in
words, pictures, songs and dancing and
The youngest Kaj is the sweetest Kaj
will be able to confirm that. These exhi-
bitions are clear examples of the kajka-
vian dialect being an essential part of
the Croatian written culture, a language
of illustrative poetry and countless en-
lightening stories. In the same period
Krapina also hosts the fair aptly named
Where can you still buy it?, and the fes-
tive atmosphere is further enhanced by
the concerts presenting Twenty new
kajkavian songs. This is only a small
part of the programme, which will take
place in Ljudevit Gaj Square, at the
Krapina Town Gallery, at the Museum
of Evolution at Hušnjakovo and at the
Festival Hall. But, a mere walk through
the town will make you feel the well-
known hospitality of Zagorje.
www.kajkavske-popevke.hr
CENTRAL CROATIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
VOLODER
AUTUMNS
Popovača
11 - 13 September
Photo: Zdenko Cvetko
When the first bunches of grapes are
cut in the vineyards of Voloder, it is
time for the Voloder Autumns to begin.
And the people of the Sisak-Moslavina
County have been marking the begin-
ning of the grape harvest in their region
for forty consecutive years. In addition
to the wine and must fair, the event
also features numerous folklore groups
from across Croatia, art exhibitions and
exhibitions of winegrowing and fruit
growing equipment and tools, as well
as various handicrafts, folk costumes
and traditional trades. The evening
programme is adjusted to the younger
generations, with the performances by
numerous pop singers, while the event
as a whole is brought to an end with
a grand fireworks display. We warmly
recommend to all true wine enthusiasts
to visit Voloder in mid-September and
take part in the feast of the palate.
www.popovaca.hr
83
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 MEDIEVAL CAMP AT THE
FOOT OF VELIKI TABOR
Desinić - Dvor Veliki Tabor
12 September
Photo: Miljenko Hegedić
In the Middle Ages the burgh of Ve-
liki Tabor belonged to the Counts of
Ratkay. And this manifestation takes us
back to those times, when knights and
their pages walked the streets of this
magnificent castle. The medieval camp
is an opportunity for all Croatian associ-
ations with a special love for things me-
dieval, like customs and skills, to come
together. Visitors are offered an attrac-
tive programme full of medieval music
performances, juggling, fortune-telling,
military skills (archery, crossbow, can-
non and catapult competitions, fencing
and torch fighting on the ground, mace
throwing…). For those not too keen on
the military side of the period, there
are the medieval folk puppet theater
and plays dealing with medieval topics.
Come and see for yourself what enter-
tainment was like back in those days,
and take a piece of the Middle Ages
with you.
www.srednjovjekovni-tabor.net
84 www.croatia.hr CENTRAL CROATIA
84 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE INTERNATIONAL
FESTIVAL OF LACE
Lepoglava
17 - 20 September
Photo: B. Težak
It is believed that the Paulines, also
known as the white friars, brought lace
to this part of Croatia a few centuries
ago. Having recognized its beauty, the
rural population accepted lace as its
tradition which they cherish to this day,
particularly in the town of Lepoglava.
Proud of their lace making tradition
and skill, the people of Lepoglava or-
ganize the International Festival of
Lace every September, thus success-
fully promoting the value of lace as
their ethnographic treasure. Although
prestigious lace creations from numer-
ous European countries are available at
the festival, the visitors always find the
local works from original Croatian lace
centers particularly attractive - in addi-
tion to Lepoglava, such centers include
Pag, sv. Marija and Hvar.
www.lepoglava-info.hr
VARAŽDIN BAROQUE
EVENINGS
Varaždin
18 - 27 September
Photo: Helena Huet
The concerts within the Varaždin Ba-
roque Evenings will take you a few
centuries back into the past, to an era
when music was a highly aestheticized
art. The numerous concerts at which
renowned Croatian and international
ensembles present all contemporary in-
terpretations of baroque pieces create
a romantic atmosphere in this baroque
city. The evenings also have a very se-
rious side in terms of musicology be-
cause their programmes often include
pieces that have only been discovered
or those that have not yet been played.
By presenting such pieces, as well as
the contemporary interpretations of
pieces already famous, the Baroque
Evenings achieve enviable results in
their professional approach to baroque
music. Let the strings of violin and cello
touch your imagination and take you on
this long musical journey.
www.vbv.hr
CENTRAL CROATIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
THE CHESTNUT
FESTIVAL
Hrvatska Kostajnica
2 - 4 October
Photo: Antun Pavičić
There is not a single dish including
chestnuts that cannot be found at the
Chestnut Festival in Kostajnica. In ad-
dition to trying various dishes made of
baked and boiled chestnuts and sweets
made of delicious chestnut puree, all
visitors are invited to take part in the
chestnut harvest. This is an opportunity
to take a walk through chestnut woods,
spend some time in good company, sing
a song or two and do all other things
guaranteeing a good atmosphere.
www.hrvatska-kostajnica.hr
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 THE JELAČIĆ DAYS
Zaprešić
4 - 18 October
Photo: Dražen Breitenfeld
Josip Jelačić is the Croatian ViceRoy
whose name symbolizes Croatian peo-
ple’s aspiration toward autonomy and
independence from imperial conquer-
ors. After a turbulent life spent in the
struggle for Croatian national interests,
he was buried in 1859 in St. Joseph’s
Chapel in Zaprešić. That is why the
residents of Zaprešić celebrate life and
achievements of this great figure in our
history on the same day they celebrate
their town. The event, which in May
commemorates the death, and in Octo-
ber celebrates the birth of Josip Jelačić,
includes the Jelačić Ball, the hurdle rid-
ing tournament Josip Jelačić Cup, eco-
nomic fair. The visitors can also take a
tour of the New Jelačić Palace, a valu-
able example of preserved cultural and
historic heritage.
www.zapresic.hr
86 www.croatia.hr CENTRAL CROATIA
86 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
DAYS OF MUSHROOMS
IN STUBIČKE TOPLICE
Stubičke Toplice
10 October
Photo: Zrinka Košić
The Days of Mushrooms (Gljivarijada)
has become a traditional gathering of
mushroom hunters. Visitors are guar-
anteed a good recreation in nature,
fresh air, relaxed atmosphere in good
company and singing all around. Ex-
cursionists arrive at the meeting point
in Pila by a specially organized tourist
train and eagerly start the mushroom
hunting. At dusk the results of a day-
long mushroom hunt are brought to the
central station for determination, and
the entire event is brought to a close
with an expert lecture given by Mladen
Strižak, and a jolly get-together which
includes the tasting of mushroom deli-
cacies prepared over the open fire.
www.stubicketoplice.hr
ASSITEJ
Čakovec
12 - 18 October
Photo: Mario Jakšić
Once a year, Čakovec hosts local
theater actors who have devoted their
professional lives to the most grateful,
but at the same time the most demand-
ing audience - children. Watching the
performances of some of our most tal-
ented young actors, for an hour or two
the children simply forget everything
that may worry their little heads. During
those five days dedicated exclusively
to them, the atmosphere in Čakovec
is joyful, reverberating with children’s
laughter and play, a mood that adults
are easily infected with. Bring your kids
and let them enjoy an excellent theatri-
cal event together with the children of
Međimurje.
www.assitej.hr
CENTRAL CROATIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
ST. MARTIN’S DAY IN THE
ZAGREB COUNTY Dugo Selo,
Samobor, Sv. Ivan Zelina, V. Gorica,
Jastrebarsko, 11 November
Photo: Nada Kozić
In November, on St. Martin’s Day, must
turns into wine. The popular St. Mar-
tin’s Day celebration is a wine holiday
deeply embedded in the tradition of
Northwestern Croatia, and as such it
is celebrated in a special way. In the
Zagreb County, St. Martin’s Day is cel-
ebrated in many towns and villages.
Standing out among them, both with
the special features of that tradition
and the variety of their programmes,
are Dugo Selo - whose patron saint St.
Martin is, Samobor, Sveti Ivan Zelina
and Velika Gorica.
www.tz-samobor.hr
www.tzvg.hr
www.dugoselo.hr
www.tz-zelina.hr
www.tzgj.hr
87
87
 THE MINERS’ DAYS
IN IVANEC
Ivanec
4 - 5 December
Photo: XMEDIA d.o.o.
The Miners’ Days in Ivanec demonstrate
the importance the people of this area
attach to keeping alive the memory
of their traditional ways of social and
cultural life, as well as to teaching the
young people to cherish their cultural
and historic heritage. This also provides
all visitors with an exceptional opportu-
nity to see the exhibition of the old tools
and other eauipment used by miners in
the old days, and thus learn about the
hardships of our ancestors. The exhi-
bition is supplemented by children’s
works on the subject of mining, and by
the miners’ sculptures. But undoubtedly
the most attractive part of the event is
the procession of the historical Ivanec
Miners’ Company that is in charge of
receiving the guests and ensuring that
everyone feels welcome.
www.ivanec-turizam.hr
88 www.croatia.hr CENTRAL CROATIA
88 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE CHRISTMAS
STORY IN ČAZMA
Grabovnica
21 December - 6 January
Photo: Davor Kirin
All Christmas stories are romantic and
educational, especially if you are a
guest of the Salaj family in Grabovnica.
At Christmas time, the Salaj fam-
ily prepares a special treat for all the
Christmas time enthusiasts, when their
garden is alight with thousands of mul-
ticolored lights, offering all who come
a magical sight and an idyllic atmos-
phere. The Christmas stable and the
manger and the decorations all over the
garden including multicolored Christ-
mas lights and ornaments shining in
the night, offer an unforgettable sense
of a deep dream followed by awakening
in a world of fairy tales, a world of a true
Croatian Christmas story.
www.tzbbz.hr
www.cazma.hr
SLAV O NI A
 THE FESTIVAL OF
ŠOKCI
Županja
13 - 24 February
Photo: Franjo Andrašević
All the hard work and dedication that
people of Županja invest into preserv-
ing their priceless cultural heritage
become evident during this festivity
stemming from the wealth of the Sla-
vonian tradition. Sumptously appointed
horse-drawn carriages, which look as if
they were taken from a museum, ride
across the town with their proud coach-
men dressed in most beautiful Slavoni-
an folk costumes. Always attractive to
guests regardless of where they come
from, the Carnival parade is invariably
accompanied by appropriate customs
- brandy distilling and pig slaughtering.
This year, all the colourful diversity will
once again be enriched still more with
folklore groups coming from other parts
of Croatia and abroad.
www.tz-zupanja.hr
90 www.croatia.hr SLAVONIA
90 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
DORF - FESTIVAL OF
DOCUMENTARY FILM
Vinkovci, 5 - 8 March
Photo: Tourist Board of Vukovar-Srijem County
If a music documentary links up a pic-
ture and a sound into an ideal form,
then DORF provides links between film
lovers and music lovers in the best pos-
sible way. Amidst the inspirational sur-
roundings of Vinkovci one can enjoy the
unconventional Festival of documentary
rock film from Croatia and other coun-
tries. The genres of a diverse, innova-
tive film story about music idols are
sure to impress not only the fans of
documentaries, but also the lay persons
in the field of film art, who will again
be able to enjoy numerous workshops,
exhibitions, promotions of books and of
course concerts.
www.dorf-vk.com
IN THE FAIRYTALE
WORLD OF IVANA BRLIĆ
MAŽURANIĆ
Slavonski Brod, 13 - 18 April
Photo: Josip Perčević
Ivana Brlić Mažuranić, a Croatian au-
thoress who wrote some of the most
beautiful children’s fairytales, spent a
part of her life in Slavonski Brod. And
every year the citizens of this town
celebrate her birthday and enjoy the
opportunity to abandon themselves to
exuberant imagination. For a full week
the entire town becomes the venue of
children’s encounters and events such
as literary, theatrical, art and photo
workshops. This children’s gather-
ing begins with a play taking place at
Ivana Square, right in front of the house
where their famous citizen used to
live. It ends with the returning of the
town keys to the mayor and a formal
production in the Ivana Brlić Mažuranić
Primary School, a school known as the
“colorful school” in Croatia due to the
fact that it is painted with characters
from Ivana’s fairytales on the inside
and the outside.
www.slavonski-brod.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
ON THE TRAIL OF THE
TRENK TROOPERS
Kutjevo
May
Photo: Zlatko Burivoda
The citizens of Kutjevo never miss a
chance to share their good time with
their guests. Hence the celebration of
the visit of Maria Theresa who stayed in
Kutjevo back in 1741. The locals never
forgot the honor she thus bestowed
on Kutjevo, and they celebrate it with
a grand extravaganza that easily takes
us back three centuries into the past.
A formal procession of historical forma-
tions, brass music and various associa-
tions marches through the town, and a
theater production is staged in front of
the Kutjevo Castle.
www.tz-kutjevo.com
SLAVONIA www.croatia.hr 91
91
 SUMMER IN
PAKRAC
Pakrac
9 May - 20 June
Photo: Tourist Board of Pakrac
The citizens of Pakrac celebrate their
medieval heritage with the Summer
in Pakrac, a multimedia event both in
program and in character. In addition
to theater productions and concerts of
various genres, the visitors are able to
watch numerous sporting events such
as the cycling race, soccer tournament,
mountain bike marathon or martial arts
seminar. All the events are organized
in the manner of the Middle Ages, the
time when the Templar Knights and the
Hospitallers resided in Pakrac, and the
town played an important economic role
thanks to its mint, the first and the only
one in the entire Croatia at the time.
www.pakrac.hr
www.tz-pakrac.hr
92 www.croatia.hr SLAVONIA
92 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE FESTIVAL OF
THE ACTOR
Ilok
16 - 25 May
Photo: Dražen Bota
We always admire actors - sometimes
they make us laugh, sometimes they
make us cry, and sometimes they just
take our breath away. However, beside
the applause at the end of the show,
they seldom receive proper acknowl-
edgement for their work. Fortunately
enough, the Festival of the Actor has
changed this. For a whole week, the en-
tire Vukovar-Srijem County is the venue
for performances recognized, one way
or the other, as special achievements
by actors in the preceding year. The ar-
tistic touch is felt throughout the area,
the audience anxiously waits for actors
to step onto the stage, and gives them
an even more tumultuous send-off at
the end of the show. Applauses echo
over the plains. Artistic passion and
bohemian spirit halt the time, carrying
the daily routine away like a tornado.
Finally, as an epilogue, actors award
actors. The award committee consists
of three actors and the Festival reaches
its climax in the awarding ceremony.
www.hddu.hr
THE CROATIAN FESTIVAL
OF ONE-MINUTE
FILMS Požega
29 - 30 May
Photo: D. Mirković
Film makers regard the one-minute film
format as a special challenge. Such for-
mat requires significant adjustments in
the conception and implementation of
ideas. The film has to squeeze in all
required elements of the story into a
single minute - the plot, the culmina-
tion and the outcome. In addition, one-
minute films often attract film amateurs
who do not have the opportunity to en-
gage in major film projects, which does
not necessarily mean they lack the
required quality. A formidable collec-
tion of films of all genres, on all kinds
of subjects and with all kinds of mes-
sages, their only common feature being
the minute length, can be viewed at the
one-minute film festival in Požega, a
festival that has gained an international
reputation over the past few years.
www.crominute.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
THE WHEEL DANCE
OF BROD
Slavonski Brod
30 May - 21 June
Photo: Darko Janković
Slavonski Brod is renown for its tradi-
tional events, the most famous among
them being the Wheel Dance of Brod.
The townsfolk used to gather in the main
town square to celebrate St. Stephen’s
Day and dance the great wheel dance
of Brod, a wheel dance often involving
hundreds of joined hands of resplend-
ently dressed girls and boys. The whole
town lives for the wheel dance, but the
programme for the event has become
somewhat different. The visitors are
now able to visit various ethnographic
and art exhibitions, attend children’s
shows, see - and indeed taste - the
cake fair, enjoy the horse team shows,
equestrian hurdle and two-horse team
competitions. In addition, the whole
town resounds with music performed
at the festival of indigenous folk songs
and folklore groups. One of the most
attractive events is the Miss Croatia in
a Folk Costume pageant. Relax, stretch
out your arms, hold tight and don’t let
the wheel dance break.
www.brodsko-kolo.com
www.fa-broda.hr
SLAVONIA www.croatia.hr 93
93
 THE SPRING IN
ORAHOVICA
Orahovica
1 - 7 June
Photo: Vladimir Grgurić
The town of Orahovica opens its gates
to visitors from across the world by
its multi-day event The Spring in Ora-
hovica. The event marks the official
opening of the summer tourist season
in Orahovica. The program is diverse,
offering a little bit for everyone. Sports
enthusiasts will look forward to the soc-
cer and boccie tournaments, while the
visitors seeking cultural programs will
find a quiet corner in one of the theater
productions.The music audience will be
able to enjoy performances by folklore
groups and concerts given by local pop
& rock stars.
www.orahovica.hr
94 www.croatia.hr SLAVONIA
94 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE KUTJEVO
GRAND PRIX
Kutjevo
June
Photo: Zlatko Burivoda
The Kutjevo Grand Prix is an interna-
tional hurdle-riding tournament. The
long-standing tradition of breeding
thoroughbred horses and top jockeys
make this tournament popular and ex-
tremely well visited. Jockeys from Aus-
tria, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia and
Germany all love this tournament and
look forward to visiting. Side by side
with the local jockeys, they all try hard
to impress the jury and the audience to
get the highest possible score for their
hurdle-riding skills. The gracefulness
of motion and harmonious relation be-
tween the horse and the jockey in many
ways verge on art, and the Kutjevo
Grand Prix is an ideal chance for you to
see it personally!
www.tz-kutjevo.com
THE BARANJA
BEĆARAC
Draž
5 - 7 June
Photo: Antonio Sobol
The people of Baranja are well known
for their gatherings that always turn into
all-round marry making. There is not a
single festivity in Baranja where you
could get bored. The Baranja Bećarac
(Bećarac being a typical amusingly rib-
ald folk song of Slavonia) in Draž only
proves this. In addition to performances
of many folklore groups, wheel dances
and an abundance of food and drink,
you can partake in the election of the
most beautiful girl or a newly-mar-
ried woman, see interesting working
clothes shows and exhibitions of nee-
dlework, old furniture, tools and some
really mysterious items from grandma’s
chest. Bull’s eye if you are interested in
the tradition of the Baranja region. And
great fun, of course!
www.draz.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
FESTIVAL OF THE “SONGS
OF PODRAVINA AND THE
DRAVA VALLEY”
Pitomača, 12 - 13 June
Photo: Gordana Jakupec
Beautiful landscapes of the Podravina
region and the love that people of the
area have for their country has often
been described in the countless verses
of Podravina. Likewise, some of our
most beautiful folk songs were written
by authors from Podravina. Which is
why this festival is an excellent oppor-
tunity for all to get to know something
about the rich and wonderful heritage
of music and poetry of the area. On two
evenings in June, the greatest talents
of the area perform on the stage in
Pitomača. The first evening is reserved
for fresh and unproven performers,
while the second evening is reserved
for performance of bands and singers
who have already achieved enviable
careers.
www.pitomaca.hr
SLAVONIA www.croatia.hr 95
95
 HARVEST AND
THRESHING IN THE PAST
Županja
20 June - 4 July
Photo: Zvonimir Tanocki
The works associated with the an-
nual harvest are so deeply embedded
in the social and cultural lives of Sla-
vonian people that, during such time,
they became not only a vital necessity,
but a symbol of their diligence. This is
the reason why it is always a special
experience to participate in events
which, in addition to the hard labour,
also celebrate the beauty of the harvest
customs. For example, during July,
visitors to Županja can see some folk-
lore garments intended for this kind of
labor, as well as savour some food and
drinks typical for that time of the year.
Along with the customs associated with
harvest, there is also an exhibition of
needlework and handicrafts from the
Bosnian embroidery to Graištane’s
small pumpkins (graištanske tikvice).
Visitors can also take a ride in a horse-
drawn carriage. Come and visit Županja
and let the spirit of these diligent people
envelope you.
www.tz-zupanja.hr
96 www.croatia.hr SLAVONIA
96 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
SUMMER IN
VALPOVO
Valpovo
23 - 28 June
Photo: Predrag Matijanić
In summertime, the entire Slavonia is
bursting with joy and celebration. Come
the last week of June and Valpovo
proves itself not to be an exception. For
forty one years now, various amateur
art clubs have been presenting them-
selves to the visitors to Valpovo during
those seven days. On this, the fortieth
anniversary, the streets will feature a
parade of indigenous folklore related to
horse-drawn carts, choirs and amateur
singers. Needless to say a Slavonian
festivity would not be complete without
its a rich gastronomic offer of traditional
food and drink. All this is a guarantee of
a superb atmosphere and great fun for
all those who come to rejoice and enjoy
the rich tradition of Valpovo.
www.valpovo.hr
www.tz-valpovo.com
SUMMER NIGHTS
OF OSIJEK
Osijek, 26 - 27 June,
24 - 25 July, 28 - 29 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Osijek
The summer months in Osijek come to
an end with a festivity which brings joy
to all ages. A variety of performances
– either theatrical or musical – are tai-
lored for adults and children. A special
experience during those days is pro-
vided by a walk along the Drava river.
And all that time the catering establish-
ments are preparing the famously de-
lectable Slavonian dishes. So come to
Osijek and savour the warm hospitality
of Slavonia.
www.tzosijek.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
THE ĐAKOVO
EMBROIDERY
Đakovo
30 June - 7 July
Photo: Saša Pjanić
In summertime, Đakovo celebrates
its long-standing and rich tradition
presenting three different aspects of
Slavonia’s cultural tradition, integrated
into in a single event in July: folklore,
which the visitors can enjoy within nu-
merous music programs; gastronomy,
the highlights of its diversity being the
famous fish stew, čobanac (shepherd’s
stew) and Đakovo kulen; and the horse
breeding tradition, its splendor present-
ed in the equestrian competitions at the
Đakovo hippodrome. This year, all lov-
ers of Slavonia’s and Baranja’s cultural
heritage will once again be able to en-
joy thousands of folk costumes, music,
dances and customs all of which are
a great source of pride for this region.
They will all take part in the colorful and
merry festive procession.
www.tz-djakovo.hr
SLAVONIA www.croatia.hr 97
97
 OSIJEK SUMMER
OF CULTURE
Osijek
end of June - end of July
Photo: Marin Franov
The Osijek Fort, which used to be the
site of turbulent historical events, turns
into a venue for premium art programs
in summertime. The Osijek Summer of
Culture takes place on its very squares
and streets, where the baroque am-
biance enhances numerous theater
productions, artistic performances, ex-
hibitions, concerts, and literary & film
evenings. Of course, special emphasis
is on presenting the local artists from
Osijek, but performances by guests
from all parts of Croatia and abroad
have also been announced.
ljetokulture.osijek.hr
98 www.croatia.hr SLAVONIA
98 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
VUKOVAR FILM
FESTIVAL
Vukovar
1 - 5 July
Photo: Vukovar film festival
The river of films flows again. The river
Danube is the grand symbol which links
all the countries through which it flows,
or upon which it bears influence due to
its vicinity. Consequently, the Vukovar
Film Festival becomes a significant
presentation of one of the most vibrant
film industries in the world – the films
made in the countries of the Danube
basin. The screening of films on the
banks of the river, on the Danube barge
or in the house of the Nobel prize win-
ner Ladislav Ružička, combined with
the hospitality of the local population
and the indigenous gourmet delica-
cies, provide an ideal atmosphere for
socializing and convey the message
that Vukovar and the Danube have that
something which cannot be described
by words. It can only be experienced.
www.vukovarfilmfestival.com
THE MIHOLJAC
FESTIVAL
Donji Miholjac
9 - 12 July
Photo: Melia Vidaković
In June Donji Miholjac becomes the
venue of a traditional Slavonian folk-
lore festival for four days. Culture & art
associations from Slavonia and other
parts of Croatia come together on the
streets of Donji Miholjac. It is a rare op-
portunity to have such a number of vari-
ous folklore groups in one place at the
same time. The parades and perform-
ances of these folklore groups are filled
with joy, singing and dancing, while the
art exhibitions and ethno exhibitions
show the daily routine as it once was.
The aromas spilling through the air will
inevitably attract you to taste some of
the popular Slavonian specialties.
www.tz-donjimiholjac.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
THE POŽEGA SUMMER
OF CULTURE
Požega
15 July - 15 August
Photo: D. Mirković
The Stari grad (Old Town) promenade
is a favorite place of the strollers in
Požega, particularly in July and August,
when the pedestrian zones offer plenty
of cultural events such as concerts
and theater productions. While walk-
ing along, you can enjoy the sounds of
classical music, attend local pop stars’
concerts, visit an exhibition or a show.
The culmination of the Požega Cultural
Summer is the Contemporary Croatian
Literature Festival, where a dozen
prominent Croatian writers present
their works and make up a collection of
works with the help of the audience.
www.pozega-tz.hr
SLAVONIA www.croatia.hr 99
99
 THE FEAST OF
ST. ROCH
Virovitica
31 July - 23 August
Photo: Ivan Šemper
St. Roch is the patron saint of the town
of Virovitica. It is therefore no wonder
the people of Virovitica decided to cel-
ebrate the day of their town on August
16, and made this day the central part
of the multi-day festival called The
feast of St. Roch (Rokovo). As people of
Virovitica like to say, the event grows .
Once this manifestation was merely a
modest fair, but today its programme
has transformed it into a true marathon
festivity. During those days, the entire
Virovitica lives in an atmosphere of om-
nipresent joy, with the cultural program
and unpredictable sport competitions
live up to the atmosphere. The Feast of
St. Roch combines the new and the old
in an attractive way. Come and see the
wealth of Virovitica’s tradition and enjoy
the performances of great entertainers.
www.virovitica.hr
100 www.croatia.hr SLAVONIA
100 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
GLORIA FESTUNG
Slavonski Brod
August
Photo: Foto Breza
Thanks to The Gloria festung spectacle
(a major extravaganza of light, music
and magnificent costumes which in-
cludes a number of extras, members
of historical military formations, ac-
tors and singers), the old Brod for-
tress relives some of its most glorious
times when brave knights and soldiers
walked its walls. This is accompanied
by light effects giving a new life to the
old fortress, a life the likes of which it
has never lived before, a life of specta-
cle and theatre enthusiasm.
www.tzgsb.hr
THE SLATINA SUMMER
OF CULTURE
Slatina
5 - 30 August
Photo: Željko Juras
Summer guests of the town of Slatina
will be pleasantly surprised with a va-
riety of cultural events, which turn this
town into a real treasury of culture.
Events that take place in the streets
and parks change the town and give
the visitors a new sensibility towards
culture and art. Variety is the key of the
success. To be more precise, during
those days in Slatina you will be able to
find a form of cultural expression that
suits you best - theater productions,
concerts, film projections, exhibitions,
presentations of old crafts or culinary
specialties. The recently published
cultural-tourist guide featuring all these
events is now at your disposal.
www.tz-slatina.hr
SLAVONIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
PILGRIMAGE ON THE FEAST
OF THE ASSUMPTION OF
THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Aljmaš, 14 - 15 August
Photo: Antonio Sobol
On the Feast of the Assumption of the
Blessed Virgin Mary, thousands and
thousands of believers join in the pil-
grimage to the Aljmaš Shrine, the most
renowned Marian shrine in the Osijek-
Baranja County. Over the past few
years, the shrine has had some of the
most glorious moments in its four-cen-
turies-long history. According to many
believers, the new Church of the Visi-
tation of Virgin Mary, built in the same
place where the old one used to stand,
is even more resplendent. Make sure
you don’t miss the amazing spiritual
experience provided by this shrine.
www.svetiste-aljmas.hr
101
101
 THE INTERNATIONAL
NIGHT OF BATS
Papuk
28 August
Photo: Vlatka Dumbović
Bats - mammals circling the night sky
above our heads in search of food - are
main characters in many horror sto-
ries. However, bats play an important
environmental role. They happen to be
the best indicators of an environment’s
cleanness. The fact that thirty-five out of
a total of forty-five bat species known in
Europe inhabit Croatia indicate that the
Croatian air is still among the cleanest
in Europe. A particularly large number
of bats inhabit the Papuk nature park,
where the international night of bats is
celebrated. Visit Papuk, see its beauty
up close and listen to a lecture given
by one of our recognized experts in the
field of the intriguing bat kingdom.
www.pp-papuk.hr
102 www.croatia.hr SLAVONIA
102 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
THE OLD SPORTS
OLYMPICS
Brođanci
30 August
Photo: Marin Janković
What kinds of sports did our ancestors
practice to match their strengths and
skills? Written history does not provide
the information. Their descriptions are
not available in history books. To dis-
cover them, you will have to listen to
your grandfather’s or grandmother’s
stories. Or visit the Old Sports Olympics.
Brođanci is the venue of a competition
in various ancient sports that were once
practiced by shepherds while tend-
ing their herds, farmers during their
breaks, and children at play. Young
men used to engage in such sports to
try to impress their chosen ones or to
compete with boys from a neighboring
village. Today, sport disciplines such as
rope pulling, rock throwing, horseshoe
tossing or partaking in a sack-race do
not have a serious competitive charac-
ter, but provide great fun for both the
participants and the supporters.
www.tzobizovac.hr
VISITING THE OLD
TIMES
Otrovanec
30 August
Photo: Josip Mikolčić
Although celebrating the old crafts and
customs, the people of Podravina cele-
brate them in a very modern way. To be
specific, the festival aptly named Visit-
ing the Old Times which cultivates the
tradition of Podravina, is practically like
an interactive outdoor museum. Evolv-
ing before the eyes of the visitors are
old stories in which they may actively
participate. Everyone is given a chance
to knead bread, build a fire in the bread
oven or pound pumpkin seeds in a
mortar. Naive painters of Podravina
paint their landscapes on glass on the
spot, hackney-carriages circle around
inviting you for a tour, and the sounda
of instruments such as tamburitza and
cymbals are waiting to carry you away
with rapturous wheel dancing. Also
there are numerous honey traders, far-
riers, potters and others, but we will not
disclose everything - come to Pitomača
and see it for yourself.
www.pitomaca.hr
SLAVONIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
AUTUMN IN
BARANJA
Beli Manastir
September
Photo: Ivica Bela
In autumn, Baranja is dotted with a col-
lage of colours. Wherever you look, the
image blurs in shades of red, yellow and
brown. This is a time when chimneys in
Baranja spill the mouth-watering aro-
mas of homemade food, when brandies
are distilled, and vegetables are pickled
for the upcoming winter. And those are
the days when the entire wealth of the
traditional Baranja cuisine is available
in one place - in Beli Manastir. While
you’re trying to decide which pot to
dip into, check out some of the stands
where the hosts present ancient crafts
and trades. The pleasant atmosphere
is enhanced still further by numerous
folklore groups performing the authen-
tic Baranja songs.
tzg-belimanastir.baranja.biz
103
103
 THE FESTIVAL OF THE
“GOLDEN STRINGS OF
SLAVONIA” Požega
3 - 6 September
Photo: Foto Knajs
If you want to learn about the original
Slavonian music, your search ends at
this festival. As it happens, the The
Golden Strings of Slavonia is a festival
nurturing only the music of the end-
less Slavonian plains, the sounds of
tamboura and love verses about family,
loved ones and homeland. The festival
program will take you on an unforget-
table journey through the long-standing
musical tradition of Slavonia, and pro-
vide you with the opportunity to hear
some modern music, some songs that
never leave the top of the radio charts.
And since the Golden Strings of Slavo-
nia is a successful combination of a tra-
ditional and entertainment event, each
visitor is guaranteed a good time.
www.pozeskifestival.hr
104 www.croatia.hr SLAVONIA
104 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
SILK IS RUSTLING,
EMBROIDERY IS
SPREADING
Podvinje, 7 September
Photo: Josip Perčević
During the 19th century, the silk fac-
tory in Podvinje had its golden years.
In memory of the former silk-making
custom to which the locals have re-
mained loyal to date, a public festival
is held where the visitors can see how
silk was once handled. Young women
dressed in silk dresses with scarves
on their heads blind with their beauty,
and whoever fails to join in the merry
wheel dance with all the folk of Pod-
vinje will miss the unique opportunity
to feel the sincere joy of the people of
the region. In addition to silk, the event
is dedicated to other customs enhanc-
ing the life in Podvinje. Freshly distilled
plum brandy flows from a huge caldron,
while homemade jam prepared accord-
ing to old recipes is available to those
who want to sweeten their day. The
locals truly know how to combine en-
tertainment and health.
www.tzgsb.hr
THE VINKOVCI
AUTUMNS
Vinkovci
18 - 20 September
Photo: Darko Puharić
The people of Vinkovci often say: “Once
you’ve been to the Vinkovci Autumns,
you will always return!” Indeed, it is
hard to resist the charms you are liter-
ary immersed in during those ten au-
tumn days. The whole town and its visi-
tors live for the songs and dancing. The
Vinkovci Autumns is a folklore festival
nurturing not only the tradition of Sla-
vonia, but other customs from across
Croatia, thus celebrating the time of the
year when nature rewards our yearly ef-
forts. The louder the singing and laugh-
ing the greater the gratitude of people
for good crops - you are invited to join
them and experience the atmosphere of
the times gone by.
www.vk-jeseni.hr
SLAVONIA www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
THE ROMBERG MUSIC
EVENINGS
Belišće, 6, 13, 20 and
27 November
Photo: Darko Jančikić
Sigmund Romberg is one of the most
significant composers of the early
twentieth century. While residing in
the USA, he composed many operettas
and scores for movies, some of which
became very popular worldwide, such
as the White Lilac. The list of his mu-
sic associates includes George Gersh-
win.Romberg happens to have spent
a part of his childhood in Belišće, and
the locals gladly remember their most
famous fellow citizen. You can see how
they do it by visiting the Romberg Music
Evenings dedicated to the promotion of
the amateur theater.
www.belisce.net
105
105

TZ Međimurska -
Ruđera Boškovića 3,
40000 Čakovec;
tel./fax: +385 40 390 191,
e-mail: info@tzm.hr,
www.tzm.hr
TZ Varaždinska -
Stanka Vraza 4/VIII,
42000 Varaždin;
tel.: +385 42 394 100,
fax: +385 42 394 230, e-mail:
tz.var.zupanije@vz.t-com.hr,
www.turizam-vzz.hr e-mail: tz-kk-zupanije@kc.t-com.hr,
www.tz-koprivnicko-krizevacka.hr
TZ Sisačko-moslavačka -
S. i A. Radića 28/II,
44000 Sisak;
tel.: +385 44 540 163,
fax: +385 44 540 164,
e-mail: tzsmz@email.t-com.hr,
www.turizam-smz.hr
S REDI ŠNJA
HRY VATSKA
CIT OF ZAGREB
VIP SNOW QUEEN
TROPHY
Zagreb
4 and 6 January
Photo: Croatian Ski Association
TZ Bjelovarsko-bilogorska - Female and male skiers competing in
Trg Eugena Kvaternika 4, the World Cup often apostrophize the
43 000 Bjelovar; Zagreb race as their favourite, partly
tel.: +385 43 243 944,
because of the quality of the ski track
fax: +385 43 241 229,
on Sljeme, and partly because of the
e-mail: info@tzbbz.hr,
www.tzbbz.hr
atmosphere which is quite unique. The
vicinity of the mountain ensures that
TZ Koprivničko-križevačka - for those few days the city lives for ski-
Antuna Nemčića 5, ing. A variety of entertainment events
48000 Koprivnica; staged in the central square, as well
tel.: +385 48 624 408, as in several venues around the moun-
fax: +385 48 624 407, tain of Sljeme, make this World Cup
even more exciting. Needless to say,
however, the crux of the attention is
reserved for the races where daredevils
TZ Krapinsko-zagorska -
Zagrebačka 6, both male and female fight real battles
49217 Krapinske Toplice; of skill and sportsmanship.
tel./fax: +385 49 233 653,
e-mail: tzkzz@kr.t-com.hr, www.vipsnowqueentrophy.com
www.tz-zagorje.hr
CITY OF ZAGREB www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
MUSIC
BIENNALE
Zagreb
17 - 26 April
Photo: Tourist Board of Zagreb
Once again, for the 25th time, Zagreb
will become the centre of new sound
and new musical concepts. This year
the theme of the Biennale – the inter-
national festival of contemporary mu-
sic – is “Music and politics”. Through
numerous contemporary productions
of the classic forms like opera and bal-
let, but also of the forms that question
the boundaries of musical expression
– such as multi-medial projects, elec-
tronic music or “coreo”-dramas - the
visitors will be given the opportunity
to find out the range of relations pos-
sible in the co-existence of politics and
music.
www.mbz.hr
107
107
 ZAGREB TIME
MACHINE
Zagreb
18 April - 26 September
Photo: Tourist Board of Zagreb
As soon as the April sun finds its way
through the remnants of winter clouds,
the streets of Zagreb become the venue
for a whole array of happenings which
last until the autumn chills start, and
which take us back through the history
of the city. Walking through the streets
of the Upper Town, the old part of Za-
greb, you are certain to come across
characters that made Zagreb famous
– singers of old parlour ballads, bohe-
mians, peasant women from the village
of Šestine. Meanwhile, from the pavil-
ion in the Zrinjevac park in the centre
of town the enchanting sounds of waltz
and tango are going to be heard again,
just as depicted in the old films and
sentimental photographs.
www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr
108 www.croatia.hr CITY OF ZAGREB
108 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
FESTIVAL OF
ST. MARK
Zagreb
25 April - 19 May
Photo: Luka Gusić
The Upper Town of Zagreb, its old town
core and the national political and ad-
ministrative center, and downtown Za-
greb, representing a broader center of
the city, are abundant with centuries-
old sites - the driving force behind the
cultural life. There are countless fa-
cilities that seem to have been built for
high art, especially music. Keeping that
in mind, the organizers of St. Mark’s
Festival decided to use all these concert
and sacral facilities to provide the resi-
dents of Zagreb and their guests with
a few days of virtuosic music making.
This year, we are once again expect-
ing both local and visiting soloists and
ensembles, whose performances will
leave you breathless.
www.festivalsvmarka.hr
WEEK OF
MODERN DANCE
Zagreb
25 May - 3 June
Photo: Festival Week of Modern Dance
The Festival of Modern Dance always
brings new and delightful surprises.
And that is what modern dance is all
about, an artistic expression complete-
ly open to creativity and expressive
innovation. Dancing is an art in which
you cannot follow the trends - danc-
ers always perform the way they feel
the music they dance to. This is why
the festival is an opportunity for you
to fully open your spirit to all potential
surprises lying within the free artistic
expression and limitless abilities of the
human body. However, one thing is for
sure: the surprise factor is not about
the substance but the form of perform-
ing the substance because the Days of
Modern Dancing always host superior
artists. If you like dancing and the har-
mony of human motions, this program
is something you should not miss.
www.danceweekfestival.com
CITY OF ZAGREB www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
FLORAART
Zagreb
27 - 31 May
Photo: Floraart
A part of Zagreb referred to as new
Zagreb stretches along the south bank
of the Sava River. Different parts of
new Zagreb are dotted with green oa-
ses. Bundek, a lake with a promenade
around it and a children’s playground
nearby, is one of those oases. Thanks
to its beauty, Bundek is a perfect lo-
cation for the international gardening
show Flora Art, a flower exhibition of-
fering endless combinations of colors
and scents coming from diverse and
interestingly arranged flowers.
www.floraart.net
109
109
 CEST IS D’BEST
Zagreb
4 - 14 June
Photo: Cest is d’best
There is not a single spot in the city
center that cannot be used by street
entertainers, merry and wonderful peo-
ple taking every chance to brighten the
daily routine for passersby hurriedly car-
rying out their daily chores. Stop for a
while and let a silly clown bring tears of
laughter to your eyes, reward the effort
of a man dedicating his life to spread-
ing good vibrations with a laugh. Close
your eyes and get into the spirit of music
played by the street musicians or let an
acrobat convince you that the human
body is much nimbler than you thought
it was. Let the jugglers and fire eaters
to hypnotize you with their street spec-
tacles, let mimes and magicians extend
the scope of your imagination and make
an effort to reward them by a sincere ap-
plause and toss a coin or two into their
hat. Because they are all here during the
Cest is d’best, a festival transforming the
streets of downtown Zagreb into a bright
world of circus and street theater for a
week or two. The city is never so color-
ful and never so full of positive spirit of
carelessness as when clowns and enter-
tainers walk its streets. Believe us, they
come to the Zagreb festival from the re-
motest parts of the world.
www.kraljeviulice.com
110 www.croatia.hr CITY OF ZAGREB
110 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
EUROKAZ - THE
INTERNATIONAL FESTI-
VAL OF NEW THEATRE
Zagreb, 20 - 28 June
Photo: Eurokaz
Theaters from across the world have for
years been participating in Eurokaz, a
popular theater festival in Zagreb. The
festival provides both the citizens of Za-
greb and their guests with access to the
recent trends in the art of contemporary
theater. Luxurious productions, superb
performances and international coop-
eration are merely some of the factors
that have made this festival an interna-
tionally important event. Don’t take too
long to choose which production you
are going to see, because tickets for
all plays within the Eurokaz are hard to
come by.
www.eurokaz.hr
ZAGREB SUMMER
EVENINGS
Zagreb
1 - 31 July
Photo: Zagreb Concert Management
With the arrival of summer, lovers of
serious genres of music who visit Za-
greb in the month of July, will come
into their own - be their choice clas-
sical music, jazz or folklore. Walking
through the streets of Downtown and
Upper Town the romantic sounds can
be heard from practically every corner.
In the course of its tradition of a quarter
of a century the Evenings have hosted
not only the established artists but also
the young and coming, and undoubted-
ly enthusiastic musicians whose vibrant
approaches ensure that the programme
always remains fresh and topical.
www.kdz.hr
CITY OF ZAGREB www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
INTERNATIONAL
FOLKLORE FESTIVAL
Zagreb
15 - 19 July
Photo: Vido Bagur
Zagreb has its own festival of folklore,
the traditional culture very appreciated
in Croatia for its values and lovingly
passed on from generation to genera-
tion. Inspired by similar festivals from
the 1930s, the Zagreb Folklore Festival
is conceived thematically. More pre-
cisely, you can learn about traditions
associated with specific dates, cus-
toms such as weddings, carnivals and
harvest festivities, and traditions typical
of individual parts of Croatia. The visi-
tors to Zagreb thus have the opportu-
nity to see and learn about numerous
cherished customs of other Croatian
regions.
www.msf.hr
111
111
 PIF - THE INTERNATIONAL
FESTIVAL OF PUPPET
THEATRE Zagreb
28 August - 4 September
Photo: Ivan Špoljarec
Perhaps it is true that puppets bring
most delight to children, but the pro-
gramme of this particular festival suc-
cessfully demonstrates that puppets
can entertain adults as well. Although
intended for the youngest ones, the
beauty of the puppets and skills of the
puppeteers performing in PIF can attract
the attention of any art enthusiast. You
can see for yourself that this pertains
to all continents in the world because
premium puppet theaters from all over
the world respond to PIF’s invitation.
www.mcuk.hr
112 www.croatia.hr CITY OF ZAGREB
112 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
I.A.A.F. - INTERNATIONAL
ATHLETIC MEETING
Zagreb
31 August
Photo: Tourist Board of Zagreb
This year numerous top class athletes
are going to come to Zagreb again
– winners of Olympicmedals, worls
champions and world record breakers.
With the tradition of over half a century
the Zagreb Meeting enjoys a high rating
in the world of athletics. But these are
just additional reasons why the lovers
of sport should not miss it. The main
reasons are the athletes, their sporting
spirit and skills.
www.zagrebhanzek.com
THE MEDIEVAL DAYS
ON MEDVEDNICA
N.P. Medvednica
27 September
Photo: Medvednica Nature Park
The life of a miner is often used as a
metaphor for a hard life full of hard toil
and sacrifice. A visit to the old mines
represents much more than walking
into the dark bowels of a mountain. It
means paying respect to people whose
job is undoubtedly among the most de-
manding and hazardous of all human
endeavours In the Middle Ages miners
were digging for lead and zinc ore at
the altitude of 830 m. The remains of
that mine have been preserved and,
having been attended to, now repre-
sents an attractive tourist destination.
Visit the old mine, get a feel of what
life was like for those men, and relax in
the beauty of nature surrounding you,
but also in the traditional cuisine of the
Grafičar mountain lodge.
www.pp-medvednica.hr
CITY OF ZAGREB www.croatia.hr
DALMACIJA - ZADAR www.hrvatska.hr
ZAGREB FILM
FESTIVAL
Zagreb
18 - 24 October
Photo: Zagreb film festival
Zagreb Film Festival is a venue not
just for film buffs, but for many other
visitors to whom the festival program
successfully opens up new horizons
into the field of film art. The Festival
programme includes films that are
not necessarily commercial, but tend
to provide artistic creations. However,
the films presented at the Zagreb Film
Festival invariably become hits among
serious film audiences. As these are of-
ten films having no regular distribution,
the festival also represents a unique
opportunity to even see the films. Film
projections are accompanied by excel-
lent concerts, so you are guaranteed a
great time in addition to new films.
www.zagrebfilmfestival.com
113
113
CROATIAN NATIONAL TOURIST BOARD REPRESENTATIVE OFFICES
ABROAD
Kroatische Zentrale für Tourismus,
1010 Wien, Am Hof 13, Österreich
tel.: +43 1 585 38 84;
fax: +43 1 585 38 84 20
e-mail: office@kroatien.at
Kroatische Zentrale für Tourismus,
60311 Frankfurt, Kaiserstrasse 23,
Deutschland
tel.: +49 69 23 85 350;
fax: +49 69 23 85 35 20
e-mail: info@visitkroatien.de
Kroatische Zentrale für Tourismus,
80469 München,
Rumfordstrasse 7, Deutschland
tel.: +49 89 22 33 44;
fax: +49 89 22 33 77
e-mail:
kroatien-tourismus@t-online.de
Ente Nazionale Croato per il Turismo,
20122 Milano,
Piazzetta Pattari 1/3, Italia
tel.: +39 02 86 45 44 97;
fax: +39 02 86 45 45 74
e-mail: info@enteturismocroato.it
Ente Nazionale Croato per il Turismo,
00186 Roma,
Via dell’ Oca 48, Italia
tel.: +39 06 32 11 0396;
fax: +39 06 32 11 1462
e-mail:
officeroma@enteturismocroato.it
Chorvatské Turistcké Sdružení,
110 00 Praha 1, Krakovská 25,
Česká Republika
tel.: +420 2 2221 1812;
fax: +420 2 2221 0793
e-mail: infohtz@iol.cz
info@htz.cz
Chorvátske Turistické Združenie,
821 09 Bratislava, Trenčianska 5,
Slovenská Republika
tel.: +421 2 55 562 054,
+421 2 55 415 415;
fax: +421 2 55 422 619
e-mail: infohtz@chello.sk
114 www.croatia.hr INFORMATION
114 www.hrvatska.hr DALMACIJA - ZADAR
Horvát Idegenforgalmi Közösség,
1053 Budapest, Magyar u. 36,
Magyarország
tel.: +36 1 266 65 05;
fax: +36 1 267 55 99
e-mail: info@htz.hu
Office National Croate de Tourisme,
75116 Paris, 48, avenue Victor Hugo,
France
tel.: +33 1 45 00 99 55,
+33 1 45 00 99 57;
fax: +33 1 45 00 99 56
e-mail: infos.croatie@wanadoo.fr
Croatian National Tourist Office,
London W6 9ER, 2 Lanchesters, 162-
164 Fulham Palace Road,
United Kingdom
tel.: +44 208 563 79 79;
fax: +44 208 563 26 16
e-mail: info@croatia-london.co.uk
Croatian National Tourist Office,
New York 10118, 350 Fifth Avenue,
Suite 4003, U.S.A.
tel.: +1 212 279 8672;
fax: + 1 212 279 8683
e-mail: cntony@earthlink.net
Narodowy Ośrodek Informacji
Turystycznej Republiki Chorwacji,
00-675 Warszawa,
IPC Business Center,
ul. Koszykowa 54, Polska
tel.: +48 22 828 51 93;
fax: +48 22 828 51 90
e-mail: info@chorwacja.home.pl
Kroatiska turistbyrån,
11135 Stockholm,
Kungsgatan 24, Sverige,
tel.: +46 8 53 482 080;
fax: +46 8 20 24 60
e-mail: croinfo@telia.com
Kroatisch Nationaal Bureau Voor
Toerisme, 1081 GG Amsterdam,
Nijenburg 2F, Netherlands
tel.: +31 20 661 64 22;
fax: +31 20 661 64 27
e-mail: kroatie-info@planet.nl
Office National Croate du Tourisme, PUBLISHER: Croatian National Tourist Board
1000 Bruxelles,
Vieille Halle aux Blés 38, Belgique,
FOR THE PUBLISHER: Niko Bulić, M.Sc., Director
tel.: +32 2 55 018 88; EDITORS: Milo Sršen, Andrea Petrov
fax: +32 2 51 381 60 PROJECT COUNCIL: Stipe Maleš, Slavija Jačan-Obratov
e-mail: info-croatia@scarlet.be
TEXT: K&K Promotion
Хорватскоетуристическое TRANSLATION: Volga Vukelja Dawe
сообщество, 123610 Moscow,
PROOFREADING: Volga Vukelja Dawe
Krasnopresnenskaya nab. 12,
office 1502, Russia PHOTOGRAPHS: We hereby thank all cultural and tourism institutions and the
tel.: +7 495 258 15 07; system of the Croatian National Tourist Board for cooperation and photographic
fax: +7 495 258 15 08
material placed at our disposal.
e-mail: HTZ@wtt.ru
DESIGN/LAYOUT: K&K Promotion
Hrvaška turistična skupnost, PRINT: Meić d.o.o.
1000 Ljubljana, Gosposvetska 2,
YEAR: 2009
Slovenija
tel.:+ 386 1 23 07 400;
fax:+386 1 23 07 404 The publisher does not guarantee absolute accuracy of the information provided
e-mail: hrinfo@siol.net
herein and shall bear no liability due to any potential inaccuracy of or changes to
Kroatische Zentrale für Tourismus, such information.
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Switzerland
This publication is distributed free of charge.
tel.: +41 43 336 2030;
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e-mail: info@kroatien-tourismus.ch
Oficina de Turismo de Croacia,
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Coello 22, esc.B,1°C, Espana
tel.: +3491 781 5514;
fax: +3491 431 8443
e-mail: info@visitacroacia.es
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INFORMATION www.croatia.hr 115
Croatian National Tourist Board
Iblerov trg 10/IV, 10 000 Zagreb
Croatia
tel.: +385 1 46 99 333
fax: +385 1 45 57 827
e-mail: info@htz.hr
www.croatia.hr
GRATIS