Dive into the heart of Croatia with me, your seasoned guide and local enthusiast! Having lived in Croatia for 11 years and journeyed through its breathtaking landscapes for the last 40, I’ve got some tales to tell.
And let me tell you, there’s no better way to truly connect with Croatian culture and history than hitting up the festivals.
Trust me, as after exploring 25 countries and countless cities; nothing compares to the vibrant spirit of events in Croatia.
From the electrifying Ultra Music Festival to the enchanting Festival of Lights and the traditional charm of Korčula’s annual sword dance festival in late August, Croatia’s calendar is jam-packed. And don’t get me started on the Split Summer Festival or the Love International Festival; these are just a taste of the best festivals in Croatia.
Whether you’re into the thumping beats of electronic and bass music at summer festivals in Croatia or the more serene settings of film events and dance festivals, there’s something here for everyone.
Each festival is the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, offering a slice of Croatian life you can’t get anywhere else.
So, whether you’re planning a trip to Croatia or just dreaming of one, let’s chat about the numerous festivals that dot the Croatian landscape, from the city of Zagreb’s Nights of Diocletian to the famous beaches hosting deep house legends.
Let’s dive into the festivals and events in Croatia together – it’s a journey you won’t forget!
Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!
Sporting Events In Croatia
Here is a calendar of sporting festivals and events.
1. 4 Islands MTB Stage Race
In one of Croatia’s most unique and diverse mountain biking races, competitors will experience the thrill of steep mountain climbs, coastline pathways, and intense descents. Race in one of the world’s most beautiful areas or volunteer to help with the event.
When: April | Where: Krk-Rab-Cres-Lošinj
2. 100 Miles Of Istria Ultratrail
If running is your thrill, Istria’s 100-mile trail run is a must. With nothing but the ground under your feet and panoramic views ahead, competitors experience the adrenaline of a good race and the awe of Istria’s splendid landscapes.
When: April | Where: Istria
3. Croatia Nautic Show
Nautical boat enthusiasts will enjoy this display of famous Croatian and international nautical brands set in the Split Riva.
When: April | Where: Split | More Info: Website
4. Croatia Bike Week
Check out the new products, bike equipment, and motorcycles from traders around Europe. Entertainment includes parades, concerts, stunt shows, and car shows.
When: June | Where: Medulin
5. Croatia Open ATP Tennis Tournament
Top men’s tennis players will compete (including top Croatian players).
When: July | Where: Umag
6. Rally Kumrovec
This international car rally competition takes place in Kumrovec. Watch challenging races at four circuit stages.
When: TBD | Where: Kumrovec | More Info: Website
7. Regata Mrdulja
The oldest sailing race in Europe is held annually in October. To participate, you need to have a certain level of sailing skills. However, pre- and post-party events are a nice way to get to know the sailing community, learn more about its characteristics, and watch the sails at the start and finish lines.
When: October | Where: Split
Music Festivals In Croatia
Here is how you can hear great music – these are the best electronic and dance music festivals in Croatia.
8. Music Biennale Zagreb
Dedicated to new music, the “living classics” of contemporary music from around the world will be celebrated. Programs will include chamber ensembles, symphony orchestras, musical theater, contemporary jazz, electronics, dance, and alternative music.
When: April | Where: Zagreb | More Info: Website
9. International Festival Of Wind Music
This gathering of amateur wind orchestras is a competition with the aim of improving the wind music scene in Central Europe.
When: April | Where: Omišalj, Krk Island | More Info: Website
10. Sea Star Festival
Welcome to Umag, where the Sea Star Festival kicks off the summer with a bang. This relatively new addition to Croatia’s festival scene has quickly made a name for itself with its stellar lineup of electronic, rock, and hip-hop acts. Set in the Stella Maris resort, the festival not only promises excellent music but also a chance to dip your toes in the Adriatic.
With its welcoming atmosphere, Sea Star serves as a perfect prelude to Croatia’s bustling summer festival season, offering an ideal mix of vacation and festival vibes. Whether you’re there to see international headliners or discover new music, the Sea Star Festival delivers an electrifying start to summer.
When: May | Where: Umag | More Info: Website
11. Aklapela Festival
Across Dubrovnik, enjoy the enchanting sounds of Cappella groups (known as klapas) from around Croatia. This singing style has been recognized as a UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage. Whether you catch a performance at St. Dominic’s Church or happen upon a group singing along the street corners, don’t pass up a chance to hear it live.
When: April | Where: Dubrovnik
12. Lighthouse Festival
This underground electronic music festival will open in Central Europe and the Adriatic Coast season.
When: May-June | Where: Porec
13. Zagreb Summer Evenings
Do you love the violin? Piano? Guitar? These are just a few of the tunes Zagreb Summer Evenings will provide. Enjoy exclusive concerts put on by some of the world’s best ensembles and musicians. Check the website’s schedules for dates and times of the various performances.
When: June-July | Where: Zagreb
14. Hideout Festival
It is a leading electronic festival in Croatia, featuring some of the world’s top DJs. Set at Zrce Beach, it makes for a sensational time on the coast.
When: June | Where: Novalja
15. INmusic Festival
INmusic festival, a huge open-air music festival, is held in Zagreb, Croatia, for two to three days. This Zagreb festival features many eye-catching performances and concerts of different music genres ranging from indie rock to heavy metal to electronic artists. The festival grounds are surrounded by a lush green forest and a calming lake, and there is even space for recreational activities like swimming, skateboarding, and horse riding.
When: June | Where: Zagreb
16. Fresh Island Festival
Renowned for its epic lineup of hip-hop, R&B, and grime acts, it’s a haven for fans looking to party hard in a stunning setting.
The festival boasts stages right on the beach, boat parties, and after-parties in open-air clubs. It’s not just about the music; it’s the vibe, the people, and the unforgettable experience of partying on one of Croatia’s most famous beaches. Fresh Island Festival is a must for anyone looking to combine their love for great music with the beauty of the Adriatic coast.
When: Not schedules for 2025 | Where: Pag Island
17. Festival Kvarner
A combination of classical and contemporary composers will be featured in a series of musical concerts and operas celebrating the musical traditions of Opatija.
When: TBD | Where: Opatija
18. Liburnia Jazz Festival
It is a delight for international and Croatian jazz lovers to enjoy music both from world-famous and promising young musicians. Daily highlights include the “Jazz Boat” that sails along the coast and famous jazz star concerts performed in Opatija’s Open Air Theatre.
When: July | Where: Opatija
19. Day & Night Festival
If party boats, clubbing until dawn, and beach vibes are your thing, this festival is for you. Electronic music will be featured across stages at some of Croatia’s hottest clubs – Aquarius, Kalypso, Nomad, and Papaya.
When: July | Where: Pag
20. Ultra Europe
Known as the “Destination Music Festival,” this electronic music lineup will travel across the stunning islands of Croatia.
When: July | Where: Split
21. Outlook Festival
Described as Europe’s largest bass culture and dubstep festival, it takes place in Fort Punta Christo with opening concerts in the Arena in Pula.
When: July | Where: Pula
22. Momento Demento (MoDem)
This psychedelic music festival features top underground psychedelic artists from around the world.
When: August | Where: Primislje, a scenic village, is a new addition to our trip around Croatia’s festival scenes.
23. Sonus Festival
Known to be the largest underground festival in Europe, enjoy five days and five nights of techno, beats, open-air clubs, and boat parties on Zrce Beach.
When: August | Where: Pag Island
24. Rhapsody In Blue
Join the town of Fazana for an evening of pop, rock, blues, evergreen, and country music. A special children’s program, along with a light show, will keep little ones delighted—a cocktail party and art installations on the sea round out the rest of the evening’s activities.
When: August | Where: Fazana
25. Defected Croatia
House, disco, alternative, and electronic fans will enjoy the collaborative sounds of DJs worldwide. Boat parties, after parties at Barbarella nightclub, and morning yoga & meditation sessions in the Garden Tisno (Tisno, Croatia) make this one of the top festivals in Croatia.
When: August | Where: Tisno
26. Dimensions Festival
Dimensions Festival is an underground music lover’s dream, known for its forward-thinking lineup that spans electronic, techno, jazz, and beyond. After moving from Fort Punta Christo to The Garden Resort in Tisno, it continues to offer an intimate festival experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Imagine dancing in secluded coves, on boats, and in open-air clubs under the stars. Dimensions is more than just a festival; it’s a community of like-minded souls coming together to celebrate the cutting edge of sound. With a focus on quality sound systems and an eclectic music selection, it’s the go-to for audiophiles seeking sun, sea, and sublime beats.
When: August-September | Where: Tisno | More Info: Website
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Film Festivals In Croatia 2024
These are the top film events in the country.
27. Mediterranean Film Festival Split
One of the most popular cultural events, this film festival premieres films from the Mediterranean region and regional and Croatian films. You won’t find these works in regular cinema distribution!
When: June | Where: Split| More Info: Website
28. Animafest Zagreb
The second oldest film festival in the world dedicated to animation, this festival highlights all forms of this genre, and 80% of the films shown will be premiering.
When: June | Where: Zagreb | More Info: Website
29. Fantastic Zagreb Film Festival
Get ready for a series of fantastic films! This is the film festival for you this summer: science fiction, horror, thriller, mystery, experimental… if you love these genres.
When: June-July | Where: Zagreb | More Info: Website
30. Pula Film Festival
One of Croatia’s most visited cultural events, this film festival will feature cinema productions from around the world.
When: July | Where: Pula | More Info: Website
31. Motovun Film Festival
Dedicated to independent films and films made in small cinematographies, the stories shared are powerful and the event brings attention to the work. This is a popular event and movies are picked carefully, so only top-quality options are shown. It helps new and struggling producers break their way into the mainstream.
The festival takes place every July and spans five days. Screenings go from 10 am to 4 am (indoor and outdoor) throughout the five days.
You can buy your tickets online, and the cost depends upon what you want to do. There are night screenings of various films, and you can purchase tickets on the day without having to book. Cinema tickets during the day cost anywhere between 3.5 to 5 EUR for this year’s show.
Aside from a huge range of different films to check out, there is a laid-back, fun feel to the entire time, with food, music, and general merriment. This is a must for any film fan and anyone who likes the sound of enjoying an open-air film under the summer stars!
When: July | Where: Motovun | More Info: Website
32. Supertoon Film Festival
Domestic and international competitors will air short animated films for children, music videos, commercials, and title sequences at this festival.
When: July | Where: Šibenik | More Info: Website
33. Postira Seaside Film Festival
Enjoy four evenings of international short fiction films and one evening of Croatian short films at the Postira Seaside Film Festival. Films will be shown in the old town square of this picturesque fishing village. If you are looking for a laid-back, this is the film festival for you!
When: July | Where: Postira, the Island of Brač | More Info: Website
34. Vukovar Film Festival
This week-long festival takes place in several locations in Vukovar, with a rich program screening films from the Danube region and neighboring countries. Awards will be presented for the documentary, short fiction, and feature fiction films.
When: July-August | Where: Vukovar | More Info: Website
35. Brač Film Festival
Get ready to view contemporary European documentary films. The island of Brač will come to life with the celebration of the film concerts and workshops.
When: August | Where: Supetar, Island of Brač | More Info: Website
36. Liburnia Film Festival
Enjoy quality documentaries, including the latest in Croatian documentaries, in an open-air, relaxed atmosphere. This festival has a claim to being the first documentary film festival in Croatia.
When: August | Where: Opatija | More Info: Website
37. Trash Film Festival
No dramas, documentaries, or art films here! This festival celebrates low-budget action movies, so get ready for martial arts, sci-fi, horror, and non-stop action. Festivities include concerts, kitsch parties, and red carpet events, with the festival award of a Golden Chainsaw given to the best films.
When: September | Where: Varaždin | More Info: Website
38. Split Film Festival
Outside, mainstream films are showcased in this new film festival. Works include personal, experimental, radical, and innovative media. If you are looking for cinema off the beaten path, these entries are sure to interest you.
When: October | Where: Split | More Info: Website
39. Dubrovnik Film Festival (DUFF)
DUFF offers a unique cinematic experience in one of the world’s most picturesque cities, Dubrovnik. Focused on young filmmakers and audiences, this festival showcases a diverse selection of short films, animations, and documentaries from around the globe. It’s more than just screenings; workshops, discussions, and networking opportunities abound, making it a fertile ground for budding film enthusiasts.
Set against the backdrop of Dubrovnik’s stunning Old Town, DUFF is a celebration of creativity, youth, and the art of filmmaking, offering insights into the world of cinema through the eyes of its future stars.
When: October | Where: Dubrovnik | More Info: Website
40. International Tourism Film Festival
A celebration of films and audiovisual productions that promote tourism around the globe will be highlighted. Learn the latest trends in the industry.
When: November | Where: Zagreb
Cultural Events And Festivals
This next section is celebrating cultural festivals and events,
41. Rijeka Carnival
Carnival weekend is Rijeka’s main attraction – and the whole city lives for this one magical weekend. Complete with an international parade, delicious food, entertainment, and music, you’ll spend the weekend in merriment at this cultural festival.
When: February | Where: Rijeka | More Info: Website
42. Cest Is D’ Best
Founded in 1997, Cest Is D’ Best is one of the oldest and the most famous Zagreb festivals and best street festivals in Croatia. It promotes and creates a street cultural expression and tourist attractions in the capital of Croatia. Check out the music concerts, theater, street musicians, children’s activities, visual arts, dance & sports.
When: May-June | Where: Zagreb | More Info: Website
43. Kantuni Corners
Celebrate with music, traditional food and drink, and other various performances on the ancient corners of the city, the kantuni. Rab’s Old Town is full of unique culture to experience for yourself while celebrating at these corners throughout the year.
When: June | Where: The Island of Rab | More Info: Website
44. Pula Superiorvm
Roman civilization is presented in urban culture. Four days will be filled with rich events bringing to life the history of ancient Pula.
When: June | Where: Pula | More Info: Website
45. Old Town Night Tour – Labin Art Republika
This guided tour of the old town will start at 9.30 pm on Tuesdays in the summer. History buffs will enjoy the re-telling of legends, myths, and stories that will bring the past to life of the town to life. Enjoy a local olive oil tasting after your tour!
When: June-September | Where: Labin
46. International Lace Festival
In 2010, Pag lace was placed on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Celebrate the history of this artisan craft at a festival dedicated to these beautiful needle stitches. From viewings to workshops to a wedding dress fashion show, three days of events are available for you to take in the intricate beauty that is lace.
When: June | Where: Pag
47. Salsa Festival, Rovinj
Dance the night away at open-air salsa parties and workshops throughout the town. The goal is education and entertainment for dancers of all levels and styles!
When: June | Where: Rovinj | More Info: Website
48. International Children’s Festival
Enjoy the city of Šibenik as it celebrates the imagination and creativity of children. Programs showcasing Croatian and international children’s theatre, film, puppetry, visual arts, and literature will bring the streets to life and remind you never to forget your playful side!
When: June-July | Where: Šibenik
49. Rijeka Summer Nights Festival
The streets, squares, and terraces of Rijeka come to life during July as theater performers bring their musical concerts and classical and drama acts to the city.
When: June-July | Where: Rijeka
50. Mediterranean Folklore Encounters
The focus is to share the traditional cultures of the Mediterranean islands. Folklore performances, daily parades, wind music instrumentalists, workshops of Adriatic handicrafts, and Mediterranean cuisine are just a few highlights.
When: July | Where: Porec
51. International Folklore Festival
With a wide variety of traditional dance, vocal interpretation, instruments, and ensembles, this is one of Croatia’s best festivals that celebrates the folklore heritage of Dubrovnik-Neretva County.
When: July | Where: Zagreb| More Info: Website
52. Kalelargart Street Art Festival
Street art and entertainment unite with music, theater performances, street acrobatics, magicians, jugglers, and more. Watch the streets of Old Town Zadar turn into a stage.
When: July | Where: Zadar
53. Dubrovnik Summer Festival
Alright, let’s talk about the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. This is the big one, folks – imagine the city of Dubrovnik turning into a massive stage for all kinds of performances. We’re talking about open-air theaters, squares, and even fortress walls coming alive with music, theater, dance, and all that jazz from mid-July to late August.
It’s like the whole city decides to throw a party, and you’re invited. Whether you’re into classical music, edgy theater productions, or just soaking up that unique vibe with a cold drink in hand, this festival’s got something for everyone. Plus, the backdrop of Dubrovnik’s old town? Unreal. It’s the perfect mix of holiday vibes and cultural feast.
When: July-August | Where: Dubrovnik
54. Split Summer Festival
If you’re all about embracing culture under the Croatian sun, the Split Summer Festival is your go-to. This festival turns Split into a live stage, offering a mix of opera, theatre, dance, and classical music performances. It happens every summer, transforming the city’s historic sites into backdrops for top-notch cultural entertainment.
Ideal for those who appreciate the arts and want to experience the vibrant local culture, this festival is a blend of traditional and contemporary performances, attracting both international artists and local talent. It’s a perfect excuse to explore Split’s ancient architecture while enjoying some classy entertainment.
When: July-August | Where: Split
55. Sinjska Alka
This event was inscribed onto the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2010. An equestrian competition of medieval-style jousting, watch the modern-day Alkars or Knights compete in the tournament. Your heart is sure to skip a beat with the thrill of this event!
When: August | Where: Sinj| More Info: Website
56. Mary Days
This annual week of religious programs and pilgrimages, leading up to the celebration of Mary’s Day (15 August), will take place at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Trsat. Highlights will include various musical and cultural programs.
When: August | Where: Rijeka
57. Sali Donkey Racing
A three-day event of live music, traditional seafood, sporting events/competitions, the lighting of the Port, and the highlight… donkey races! One of the best and most unique things to do in Croatia.
When: August | Where: Dugi Otok | More Info: Website
58. Pilchard Festival
Visit the town of Fazana as they celebrate the small, oily fish known as pilchard in the oldest fisherman’s festival in the area. Watch rowing, tug of war, and fish crate carrying competitions, dine on local restaurant fare, and soak up the town’s lively atmosphere during this event!
When: August | Where: Fazana
59. Trogir Cultural Music Festival
Throughout summer, enjoy concerts of classical and chamber ensembles in the open-air square. Also offered are plays and gallery exhibitions.
When: Summer | Where: Trogir
60. Annual Sword Dance Festival In Korčula
Next up, let’s venture to Korčula for the annual sword dance festival. Think less Game of Thrones and more traditional coolness with a side of history. This event is all about celebrating local culture with the Moreška sword dance that’s been a thing here since, well, forever.
Dancers dressed in full regalia battle it out in a choreographed spectacle that tells a tale as old as time (okay, maybe not that old, but still historic). It’s held in late July, and it’s your ticket to experiencing Korčula’s vibrant traditions up close. Grab a spot early because this festival draws crowds eager to see a slice of authentic Croatian heritage in action.
When: Summer | Where: Korčula
Modern Festivals And Events In Croatia
These are the festivals of Croatia that have a modern flare.
61. Festival Of Lights Zagreb
This isn’t just any light show; it’s Zagreb’s way of saying goodbye to winter and hello to spring around March. The city’s landmarks and parks get a dazzling makeover with state-of-the-art light installations and 3D mapping that’ll make your Instagram feed pop.
It’s a blend of art, technology, and creativity that transforms the city into a glowing wonderland. Plus, it’s free, which means you can wander through the illuminated streets, catch live performances, and enjoy the vibe without spending a dime. Whether you’re a tech geek, an art lover, or just in it for the vibes, the Festival of Lights is a bright idea for anyone in Zagreb during spring.
When: March | Where: Zagreb
62. FloraArt
The FloraArt Festival celebrates color and natural beauty. Gaze at the diverse arrangements and soak up the enticing scents of the flowers filling the city.
When: May-June | Where: Zagreb
63. The Courtyards
Have you ever wanted to walk through a secret garden? Zagreb’s beautiful Upper Town gardens and yards will be open to visitors for ten days. With the slogan “Every courtyard has a story,” this event promises to share the secrets of the heart of Zagreb with all in attendance.
When: July | Where: Zagreb
Food And Wine Festivals
Here is a calendar of festivals across many towns and cities in Croatia that celebrate food and wine.
64. Zadar Wine Festival
If you’re a fan of good wine, this event is like hitting the jackpot. This festival is a bit of a paradise for wine enthusiasts, offering a chance to sip on some of the country’s finest blends while mingling with local winemakers.
It’s usually held in February or March. Besides the wine tasting, there are workshops and talks where you can dive deep into the art of winemaking.
When: February/March | Where: Zadar
65. Days Of Asparagus
During the Days of Asparagus, the event organizers will incorporate Istrian wild asparagus into regional dishes in restaurants across northwestern Istria. Explore the various uses of this delicious plant with the creative menus on offer.
When: March-May | Where: Northwestern | Istria
66. Dubrovnik FestiWine
Join the annual FestiWine celebration in Dubrovnik during a week showcasing the incredible wines of Dubrovnik-Neretva County. Local restaurants and bars participate in the celebration by pairing traditional, regional dishes with wines on display. Attend workshops, exhibitions, and more throughout the city.
When: April-May | Where: Dubrovnik
67. Losinj Cuisine Festival
This festival presents the island of Mali Losinj’s authentic cuisine, focusing on the area’s natural and local produce, flora, and fauna. The festival kicks off with catering companies presenting their fare in the town square.
When: April-May | Where: Mali Losinj, Kvarner
68. Vinistra
Head to Porec for the famous Vinistra Wine Festival. If you love vino, this is a must!
This festival sees crowds flock to the area and gives visitors a chance to try various locally grown wines, as well as other gastronomical delights produced in the area, such as olive oil, cheese, grappa, brandies and honey, to name just a few.
Of course, there are plenty of opportunities to try various wines and many talks and exhibitions on how the wine is made, which is very interesting in itself.
Several competitions take place across the event, attempting to crown the best wine. This sees international winemakers flock to the area, and the judging panel is made up of top wine experts in the industry and vino fans themselves.
The Vinistra Wine Festival will help you learn much more about the wine industry as a whole, help you possibly find your new favorite tipple while bringing more fame to Istria as a gastronomical hotspot, with the various delicious foods on offer too.
Tickets vary in price in terms of what you want to do, e.g., wine tasting and exhibitions, so check online for specific costs just before the event begins.
When: May | Where: Porec
69. Urbanovo
In May, visitors to the Međimurje region can enjoy this event celebrating the local area’s gastronomy and wine culture. Attend wine tastings and workshops highlighting over 200 winemakers. Festivities include musical concerts and folklore programs, making it an event for the whole family.
When: May | Where: Međimurje | More Info: Website
70. Sali Day Of Herbs
We know that Dugi Otok is a stunningly beautiful island, but every May, it turns into a festival location, celebrating the fragrant and delicious herbs that are produced on the island. Every May, the ‘Day of Herbs’ takes place, and this is a week-long celebration of everything natural and herby!
Learn about medicinal herbs, herbs for cooking, and the culture and heritage of the island. There are lots of events and workshops on offer across the entire festival, and of course, you can purchase some to take home with you.
When: May | Where: Dugi Otok
71. Sardines / Cherries Week
This RI gastro edition will feature the traditional diet from days at local restaurants and taverns around the city. Enjoy regional dishes prepared with sardines and cherries throughout the week.
When: May-June | Where: Rijeka
72. Sea On The Table
Restaurants, taverns, and areas along the waterfront of Fazana will be offering traditional and new pilchard dishes. View the sculpture in Pilchard Park, dine on seafood right from the source, and enjoy the creative new dishes that will be debuted in this year’s event.
When: June | Where: Fazana
73. Šokolijada
The Šokol Fest, or Šokolijada to give it its full name, is an event for carnivores.
Šokol is a cured meat packed in salt for around a week and then cooked in red wine and spices. After that, it is wind dried. Sounds delicious right?
This is a famous dish around the Nin region, and this festival focused on showcasing this traditional method of cooking. You can learn about where it all came from, specific recipes from old families in the area, and lots of entertainment and competitions.
When: July | Where: Nin
74. Lavender Festival
Lavender has been a symbol of the Island of Hvar for ages. So, if you are looking for fragrance, color, and beauty, along with presentations on lavender distillation, local cuisine, and lavender products, make sure to visit the tiny village of Velo Grablje during your Hvar holiday.
When: July | Where: Hvar Island, Velo Grablje
75. Kolan Cheese Feast
Cheese fans will love this one! Pag cheese is famous in the region, and this festival celebrates not only that type of cheese but every other produced around this part of the country. The first Cheese Feast was held in 2015, and since then, it has been an annual deal.
At this food festival, you’ll also be able to try wines and olive oils created around the region, but of course, cheese is the primary focus!
When: August | Where: Pag
76. Nin Festival Of Salt
Nin is famous for its salt pans, so it makes perfect sense that a festival should be made out of it!
The Festival of Salt celebrates the local economy and its main export, dating back to Roman times, helping people to learn about how it is produced and harvested.
You can also learn about the benefits of salt in health and skincare, and makeup. There is plenty of entertainment, workshops, and tastings on offer. Held each August, you can check out the museum while you’re there!
When: August | Where: Nin
77. Subotina
Eggs and truffles combine at this festival’s main event – an omelet made of 2015 eggs and 10 kilograms of truffles! Enjoy folk theater performances, crafts, and food from days gone by during this celebration in the city square.
When: October | Where: Opatija | More Info: Website
78. Kestenijada
Head over to Oprtalj in October for the yearly Oprtlaj Chestnut Festival. Oprtalj is about an hour’s drive from Porec and close to Motovun, so you’re getting magnificent scenery here too.
The festival is about everything chestnut-related, including how they are grown, how they are picked, what they taste like, how to find the best ones, and what to do with them.
Chestnuts grow naturally in the forests around the area in the autumn months, and you’ll be amazed at just how versatile they are! From roasted chestnuts to cakes, chestnut honey, and chestnut wine, you can learn about it and even try it yourself. If you want to take a few samples home with you, there are chestnut products to buy, too, as well as other locally produced fare, such as olive oil and honey.
After enjoying the cuisine, stroll through woods full of chestnut trees. You might just find a few on the ground. It is said to be a lucky charm to carry chestnuts with you at all times!
It’s not all about food, as there are musical performances throughout the day from local bands and schools in the area, with plenty of fun to be had.
When: October | Where: Oprtalj
79. TeTa: Teran And Truffle Festival
During Truffle Day, local winemakers producing Teran will gather to highlight the Istrian red wine in a wine tasting. Local restaurants will serve truffle dishes made to pair with this local wine.
When: October | Where: Motovun
80. Zigante Truffle Days
The Zigante Truffle Festival takes place in Livade, close to Motovun’s truffle-rich forests. Every Autumn, there is a series of weekends dedicated to the wonder of truffles, called ‘Days of Zigante Truffles’, and it’s a popular spot to head.
The festival has various programmed events taking place throughout to keep you (and the kids) busy. The festival includes truffle tasting, cooking classes, an exhibition by renowned chefs, demonstrations of how truffles are sniffed out by specially trained dogs and preserved, and advice on what to do with them if you feel like using them in your cooking.
Of course, Istria is famous for various other local foods, and you can also learn about and try local prosciutto, sausage, honey, olive oil, and cheese. This is a must for gastronomy fans and foodies alike.
When you arrive, check out the times for the next truffle hunting expedition, which departs from the festival several times a day.
When: September-November | Where: Livade
81. Chocolate Festival
The best chocolate will be on exhibition for sampling from international brands to specialized manufacturers producing original desserts. Attend workshops, lectures, tastings, concerts, and wine pairings all dedicated to… chocolate!
When: November | Where: Opatija | More Info: Website
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Best Festivals In Croatia At Christmas
As well as the traditional summer events, Croatia comes alive at Christmas time.
82. Advent In Zagreb
There are various concerts, musicals, performances, workshops, and exhibitions for kids and people of all ages. Not to mention the abundance of food offered on every street corner.
When: December | Where: Zagreb
83. Advent In Zadar
During Advent, the city comes alive with lights, scents of delicious mulled wine and Croatian sweet treats in the air, music plays in the square, and you can don your ice skates. There is an air of fun for everyone!
When: December | Where: Zadar
So, how many of these festivals in Croatia do you want to go to? Do you know of some festivals that we missed? Let us know in the comments below, and we’ll add them.
It would be great to make a post about some traditional events, like Sinjska alka, Dubrovačke ljetne igre, … (I’m not sure if those count as festivals?) I think there is enough material to have 5 posts about summer events ;)
Thanks Iskra, we have already posted about the Alka, did you see that one?
Thank you for this article! Very useful!
I’ll be in Split for the boat show!
Hi there I would like to know more about the croatian singer like Goran Karan extra wheremwould you find out if they are having concert
He has a very popular facebook page, and they list his concert dates: https://www.facebook.com/gorankaran.hr enjoy!
Looks like an incredible list! The music festivals look like fun and I would love to be a part of the Dolce Vita Festival. I’ll be pinning this list for future ideas!
Wow, Croatians do know how to have fun! If I had to chose three if them, that would be the donkey race, sardine and cherry, and codfish and chocolate.
This is great list, BUT there is more….not only the cost during the summer is in festival, from this year we have ZAGREB TANGO SALON on the end of May. Annual manifestation tailored as the mini tango festival. Check more info on
I’ve only been to the opening day of Ultra… twice…. for free…
I sort of was talked in by a girl on my tour group the first time, and she made it look so easy that when I was at a loose end last year I figured it couldn’t be all too difficult, and managed to get myself a bracelet to get in the morning before ;) hahaha won’t be long til they catch on to things like that, tho’
How did you get in for free? You rebel you!
OMG!!!!!
Nice list! I would definitely add Organ Vida Festival – one of the biggest and most interesting photography events in the Balkans, early September in Zagreb: https://organvida.com/
Looks like an incredible list!For sure many of would not miss this, especially this coming Holidays. Great job!
Looks like an incredible list!For sure many of would not miss this, especially this coming Holidays. I’ll be pinning this list for future ideas!This would be fun. Great job!
Awesome travel guide. Your guide will help for many travellers. Thanks for sharing the information.
I am living in Varazdin. The Spochaniafest (spelling)traditional festival happens the last 10 days of August.. artisans, brass band, performers, yummy food, amazing entertainment. You must check it out.
On July 6, 2019 the 53rd Djakovacki Vesova (Folklore Festival) will take place. This festival takes place every year in July in the beautiful town of Djakovo. I am a Canadian of Croatian decent. My parents came to Canada from Croatia in the late 1950’s. We have always had a strong connection to our Croatian roots. We are members of the Croatian National Home (Hamilton, Ontario, Canada), North America’s oldest organization (90 years), dedicated to preserving the Croatian culture, history and traditions. Our senior group of performers (aged 13-21) will travel to Croatia this summer to perform at this famous festival that draws performers from all over the world. The Slavonian region is rich in folklore culture and this festival highlights this with a spectacular parade/performances, with groups wearing traditional costumes and performing the songs and dances from the various regions of Croatia.