As the summer season approaches, Croatia beckons travelers with a promise of unforgettable experiences amidst stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural events. This year, visitors to the picturesque nation will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a plethora of festivals that showcase the country’s unique heritage:
JUNE 27th – 29TH: RetrOpatija in Opatija: Step back in time and experience the retro charm of Opatija with this nostalgic and fun event. RetrOpatija is a musical journey through time, blending swing, rockabilly, rock, jazz, and electric disco music to create a sensational party celebrating the iconic decades and musical styles of the twentieth century. This retro festival brings together an array of talent, including pin-up models, dancers, jugglers, street musicians, makeup artists, and hair stylists, while also showcasing vintage cars and motorcycles like Vespas, Tomos, and Fiats. Join thousands of other visitors beneath a large disco ball at the ‘party of the century’ and dance the night away. (https://www.visitopatija.com/en/retropatija)
JUNE 30th to JULY 1st: Half-New Year Celebration Carnival in Korcula: Half New Year Celebration Carnival, a traditional fun event, carnival parade through the streets of Korčula, each year attracts a large number of guests who are having fun until the early morning hours on the streets of the town of Korčula. (https://visitkorcula.eu/)
JULY 10TH to AUGUST 25TH: Dubrovnik Summer Festival: Celebrating its 75th edition, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival is set to enchant visitors to one of Croatia’s main destinations with a captivating blend of theater, music, and dance against the backdrop of the historic city of Dubrovnik. From classical concerts to contemporary performances, this renowned festival promises cultural delights for all. ( https://www.dubrovnik-festival.hr/)
AUGUST 2nd to 4th: Sinjska Alka in Sinj: The Sinjska Alka in Sinj is a rare and ancient chivalric game, commemorating the victory of 700 Sinj knights over the Ottoman army in 1715. This victory, attributed to the Madonna’s intervention, saved the town from the siege. The Alka embodies a blend of local, eastern, and Venetian influences, showcased through elaborate costumes and military-inspired competition rules. The event is a vibrant display of movement, sound, and color. The people of Sinj instituted the Alka – the knights’ tournament in honor of its heavenly patroness the Madonna of Sinj, as an eternal vow of devotion and respect. Over three centuries, the Alka has become ingrained in the identity of Sinj and the Cetina March, serving as a testament to the preservation of chivalric spirit and regional pride. Recognized for its cultural significance, the Alka has been inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible World Heritage since November 16, 2010, as a unique tradition. (https://www.alka.hr/en)
AUGUST 23TH TO SEPTEMBER 1ST: Špancirfest (Strollers’ Festival) in Varazdin: Špancirfest in Varaždin is a dynamic festival that energizes the city with creativity and cultural exchange. Over its 20-year tenure, it has showcased over 15,000 performers from around the globe and welcomed 2 million visitors. Beyond its entertainment value, Špancirfest has become an integral part of Varaždin’s identity, with locals measuring time between festivals. The streets and squares of the historic city center come alive with the presence of street artists and buskers, creating a vibrant atmosphere that permeates throughout. Through smiles and good vibrations, attendees become active participants in the festival, contributing to its sense of community and camaraderie. Špancirfest is not just an event; it’s a celebration of culture, creativity, and the enduring spirit of Varaždin. (https://www.spancirfest.com/en/)
Click here for more information about the top events this summer across Croatia.
Stretching along the Adriatic Sea, just a stone’s throw from Central Europe, Croatia is a country defined by a rich cultural legacy. Today, history perfectly combines with a youthful spirit and vibrant energy that prove irresistible to those seeking diversity. Breath-taking natural beauty, endless coastlines, diverse gastronomy, adventure, sports and wellness, can be enjoyed all year round. Whether exploring the old city of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, island-hopping around the Split archipelago, truffle hunting in Istria, strolling around the Plitvice Lakes, delving into Zagreb’s streets and hidden passages, birdwatching in Kopački rit, or taking time out with the family on Zlatni Rat beach, there truly is something for everyone in Croatia. For more information, visit https://croatia.hr/en-gb
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