As we approach our first Christmas in Croatia, I’m discovering new traditions that make this season uniquely special. Having moved from Australia just seven months ago, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned about Croatian Christmas customs and the best markets to explore.
Editor’s note: I updated this post in 2018 with some traditions I had learned, although it was initially written in 2013 when I first moved to Croatia.
It’s almost here, and it’s our very first Christmas in Croatia. It’s been seven months since we moved from Australia to Croatia, and it feels like yesterday in so many ways, yet a lifetime in others.
Having my sister visit last week was brilliant; it was a boost from home that both she and I needed. But now what? Usually, there are so many parties and activities at this time of the year that I struggle to find the time to attend them all. This year, it’s much more low-key. So low-key, in fact, I can hardly believe that Christmas is just days away.
Almost everyone asks about how things compare between my here, and you’re there when you’re an expat. Of course, there are many differences, so Christmas time is no exception. A few things stood out to me concerning how we’ll celebrate our first Christmas in Croatia compared to Christmas in Australia.
Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!
Which Christmas Traditions In Croatia Are Different?
Croatia’s majority is Roman Catholic, so that should tell you that this time of year is a critical period on the calendar. Croatian Christmas traditions and customs have changed over the years, but some of the oldest ones have stayed the same and are still practiced today. What you will notice above everything else is food—lots and lots of food!
No Christmas Tree
December 1 came and went, and there was zero sign of any trees, faux or real. There were a few decorations here and there, but no massive section at the supermarket.
I was a little sad when I asked why, as I really want to get my tree up and start to get in the spirit. They told me that real trees are only sold from about December 20 and, traditionally, the tree is not decorated until December 24.
Briefly, I thought I would ditch my idea for a real tree and grab a faux one, but that idea lasted all of two minutes until I saw the sorrowful and ugly faux trees for sale. My sad little face became all bright and cheery when, on December 17, we found our very first and real tree for sale on the side of the road.
Croatian Christmas Has No Santa
Well, that’s not really true. There will be no Santa photos, no all-singing, all-dancing, in-your-face commercialism of any kind. Bravo, Croatia, bravo. Those who know me in real life know that I wouldn’t say I like the Santa lie. There, I said it, and you can hate me back all you like. I’ll be having no Santa, “the big fat lie” Claus, in this house.
All those lies and deceptions—for what? For my children’s imagination? We have all year to work on that without creating a lie for which most parents force children to behave in place of gifts. So far, here in Croatia, the lack of Santa agrees with me.
No Department Store Windows
No department stores = no fancy window displays. At least not here in Zadar. Even the Shopping Centers waited until well into December to put up the very meager amount of Croatian Christmas decorations.
And for that, I was thrilled. Each year in Australia, Christmas tree decorations and the myriad of green and red things begin appearing earlier and earlier. It makes me cross each year, but I know why shops do it, as fools like me always buy ‘just this one thing‘ early.
What I did see, though, were little kiosks and roadside stalls selling Croatian nativity sets and natural moss—yes, real moss—for people to add to their nativity scenes at home. Now, I’ll take that over that ugly red felt Santa suit any day.
No Heat For Christmas In Croatia
Well, there is heat; it’s just roaring from my fireplace rather than the blazing summer sun. It’s strange but not new. We’ve celebrated Christmas in New York and Paris when it was snowing. But then we were on vacation, so it seemed normal. Now that we live here, it feels somewhat strange to have colder days, no trees, and the need for a fireplace instead of the air conditioning and cold showers.
Croatian Christmas Wheat
This is one new Croatian Christmas tradition that I will be embracing! We planted it on the feast day of St. Lucia, which was on December 13. And as for most things, when I say we planted it… I mean, I looked on and smiled and will now take the credit. It’s a small plate laid with a layer of damp cotton wool to which the wheat seeds were added.
What is the wheat for? I am told that the wheat seeds should grow big and tall. How big and how tall is believed to be directly correlated to how lucky and prosperous you will be for the upcoming year. Gulp, that’s what I call pressure.
Ten centimeters was my aim, and today, it’s already at eight. I was very tempted to add fertilizer to encourage the wheat and ensure our good fortunes for next year, but I resisted. Once it grows, we will trim it to make it all pretty, tie some ribbon around it, and stick it in a candle so that it will be the centerpiece of the Christmas dinner table.
It’s A Long Christmas Season In Croatia
The Croatian Christmas season comes to an end on January 6, which is Epiphany Day. This day is the feast day of the Three Kings visiting Jesus. Much longer than we celebrate it in Australia, that is for sure!
There are so many more Croatian Christmas traditions, so before I head off to wrap more gifts and have another rakija, let me share them with you below.
Croatian Christmas Traditions
Over the years, I have learned that for Croatians, the big celebration day is not actually December 25. Instead, it is Christmas Eve, as is the case in many other European countries. The day consists of two halves: Badnji Dan (Christmas Eve day) and Badnja Večer (Christmas Eve night).
It’s also worth noting that Croatian Christmas traditions are slightly different across the country. Each area does things its own way. Here are a few traditions in Croatia I have come to learn.
St Catherine’s Day – November 25
Yes, you read that right, November! In certain parts of the country, you will see preparations for the big event beginning early. This particular day is called Sveta Kata, or St Catherine’s Day, and marks the start of the festivities. For many, however, this doesn’t begin until the first day of Advent. On St Catherine’s Day, you won’t find any weddings or other large celebrations taking place.
Prva Adventska Nedjelja – 4th Sunday Before Christmas Day
Advent Sunday falls on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day, and on this day, the first candle is lit on the wreath of four candles. In days gone by, the wreath was crafted from branches of an evergreen tree, which was supposed to symbolize forever or eternity. On every following Sunday leading up to Christmas Day, another candle in the wreath is lit.
St Nicholas’ Day – December 6
A great excuse to give and receive gifts! Sveti Nikola is the traditional start of Christmas gift-giving. The night before, children traditionally cleaned and polished their shoes and left them on the window outside, anticipating St Nicholas coming and leaving them some sweets in their shoes. However, only the good children got the goodies, and those who were less than well-behaved received something else—sticks from a little demon called Krampus!
Day Of St Lucia – December 13
Sveta Lucija, or St Lucia’s Day, is a special day in the Christmas calendar. Traditionally, St Lucia brought gifts to children in the northeastern and southern parts of Croatia on this day.
Those in the north or center of the country received their gifts on St Nicholas’ Day instead. As customs and traditions have changed, the location doesn’t matter anymore, and gifts are given to all (provided they have been well-behaved) on St Lucia’s Day, St Nicholas’ Day, and Christmas Day, too – lucky children!
There is a significant tradition that takes place on this day, and it is about Christmas Wheat. Traditionally, mothers planted the wheat on this day, although anyone can also do it. The height and size of the wheat when it grows is supposed to symbolize how lucky and prosperous you’re going to be in the coming 12 months! On Christmas Eve, the wheat is tied with red, white, and blue ribbons.
Christmas Eve – December 24
Let the celebrations begin!
We mentioned that Christmas Eve is a big deal in Croatia. It is the most important Christmas holiday in Croatia and is split into two halves. In the evening, the father of the household traditionally lights a log. This tradition is called badnjak, and the hope is that the log will continue burning right through to the end of Christmas Day.
On Christmas Eve, families everywhere come together for their traditional meal. This is also when the Christmas tree is traditionally decorated with traditional Croatian Christmas ornaments, although many can’t wait that long and do it beforehand! (You can find a few more details about Christmas Eve in Croatia below.)
Christmas Day (Bozic) – December 25
While the giving of Croatian Christmas gifts would have taken place the night before, that doesn’t mean that the eating stops on Christmas Day. This is a traditional family day when people come together and enjoy their time. By the end of the day, the probable outcome is that you will be full of food and unable to move!
Epiphany/Bogojavljenje – January 6
This is the traditional end of Christmas and is the day when Christmas trees are taken down and stored away for another year. There are a few regional traditions to talk about on this particular day, too.
In the northern and northeastern parts of the country, a ritual called zvjezdari sometimes takes place. This is when three boys visit houses and give gifts. The boys carry a cardboard star, after the Bethlehem star, and a candle. The boys sometimes sing songs simultaneously, which symbolizes the end of the Christmas period.
Badnjak
During Christmas in Croatia, there is a Christmas tradition of bringing a log into the home, known as a badnjaks, and setting it alight with the idea that it burns until Christmas Day. Of course, this is not so common now that so few homes have a fireplace, but I am told we will do this when we own a fireplace. Goodie!
Historically, the log would pass through a religious ritual whereby the oldest man in the family sprinkles it with holy water and frankincense while citing a prayer. In some parts of Croatia, badnjaks are also sprinkled with rakija. The log is supposed to remain burning all night, so each family member will take turns during the evening to ensure it remains burning.
Church For Christmas
For Croats, Christmas is a time of Spiritual Celebration, as religion is an important part of their life. We celebrate the Birth Of The Lord and Savior, and it is customary to go to church at midnight after you’ve eaten your Christmas Eve meal.
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Traditional Croatian Christmas Food
Christmas is a wonderful time of year, no matter where you are, to celebrate it. If you’re in Croatia at Christmas time, you’re in for a real treat because December is a veritable feast (in more ways than one) of Christmas fun.
Christmas in Croatia is not a time to be on a diet! We’ve mentioned typical Croatian food on more than a few occasions, so what types of food can you expect to enjoy as part of a traditional Croatian Christmas?
Christmas Eve Food In Croatia
In some areas, Christmas Eve is a traditional day of fasting, and in the evening, a simple meal is enjoyed. Traditionally, this is not a day when Croatians eat meat. Instead, their main meal features fish, typically codfish, prepared in various ways in different regions of Croatia.
In the Dalmatia region, dried codfish is the traditional Christmas Eve meal, which is called Bakalar. The codfish is boiled and served in a red sauce with cabbage, potatoes, and a salad.
Seasonings are important in the recipe and are mainly chopped parsley, garlic, and olive oil. This dish is rather smelly but oh-so-tasty. We have an easy-to-make bakalar recipe here if you want to try it.
In Istria, codfish are also the star of culinary shows on Christmas Eve. They prepare it in their own typical way, though. Istrian Christmas Eve codfish is served in a bianco style with olive oil and garlic.
It’s a bit like a paté spread on freshly made, toasted bread. Another Istrian fish dish that is eaten on the day before Christmas is called pasutice. This is a typical local pasta dish, consisting of a square-shaped pasta with salted anchovies or Bianco-style codfish, topped with hot olive oil.
On the Croatian islands, popular Christmas Eve dishes include squid and potatoes baked in the oven or a stew of tomatoes and conger eel.
Slavonians, on the other hand, often opt for their famous pike perkelt on Christmas Eve. This delicious type of goulash is made with tons of onions, tomatoes, homemade lard, and hot red peppers (or paprika), a major staple in the Slavonian diet.
After their traditional Christmas Eve fish dinner, everyone goes to Midnight Mass and then comes home to start the Christmas festivities.
Christmas Day Food In Croatia
If Christmas Eve food is relatively sober and low-key in Croatia, you can expect the complete opposite on Christmas Day. Christmas Day is a true food fest!
The types of food you can expect to see are sarme (cabbage rolls – leaves of cabbage stuffed with rice and meat), sausages, and roasted meat of all different kinds. Think roasted pig, turkey, or perhaps even a lamb.
Your plate will be overflowing with bacon and pancetta, a massive variety of different cheeses, and freshly baked bread. Depending on the region, there is a variety of different Christmas Day meals enjoyed in Croatia.
In Dalmatia, for example, a beef stew dish called pasticada is the typical Christmas Day meal. Recipes for this typical stew vary throughout the Adriatic, though. Some people prepare it with wine, adding sugar, while others opt for dessert wine.
All kinds of other ingredients are added, including cloves, celery, bacon, carrots, and garlic. The dish gets its distinct density and taste from dried plums. Traditionally, homemade gnocchi accompanies the pasticada, making for a hearty and belly-filling Christmas Day meal.
Elsewhere in Croatia, notably in the Zagreb region and northern Adriatic, the Christmas menu features roasted turkey and homemade mlinci pasta. The turkey is stuffed with fillings prepared with garlic, bread, apples, onions, celery, parsley, and even chicken liver.
In Slavonia, people traditionally eat roast suckling pig, served with an Olivier salad, a mix of veggies, eggs, and mayonnaise. In Međimurje, the culinary centerpiece is duck filled with porridge and buckwheat, while cooked pork and boiled cabbage are the traditional Christmas Day meal in Lika.
Croatia Christmas Desserts
Of course, we can’t forget about the millions of different types of traditional Croatian Christmas cookies and cakes. If you’re still not full after all that, there are plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth, from orahnjača walnut rolls and makovnjača poppy seed rolls to čupacvi cakes and cat’s eyes cakes.
As you can see, Croatian Christmas recipes, food, and traditions vary from place to place, family to family, and region to region, but one thing is for sure – Christmas in Croatia is a special time indeed.
How Do You Say Merry Christmas In Croatian
One of the most used Christmas greetings in Croatian is “Sretan Bozic,” which means “Merry Christmas” in Croatian.
Christmas Markets & Events In Croatia For A Jolly Good Time
Advent is a celebratory time of year for many countries around the world. It’s time spent preparing for the Christmas holiday and a long-standing tradition among Christians worldwide.
A Croatian Christmas is steeped in religious symbolism, notably celebrated by lighting candles that are placed on an advent wreath. It’s a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, and countries worldwide celebrate this particular time of year. Croatia is no exception.
From Rovinj to Osijek and Dubrovnik, towns and villages celebrate, and many put on fantastic displays all over Croatia. In addition to the religious aspects, cities transform into festive delights with decorations that adorn city squares and buildings while Christmas markets spring up.
Christmas markets in Croatia come to life with food, mulled wine, and gifts.
These traditions have existed for centuries and are still going strong today. Let’s look at just a few of the many places to enjoy a typical Croatian Christmas market.
1. Advent In Zagreb (Advent u Zagrebu)
The city of Zagreb celebrates the season of Advent, and it’s a real highlight of Christmas for us locals in Croatia. Advent u Zagrebu, as it’s known in Croatian, is a grand and colorful affair featuring thousands of Zagreb Christmas lights—exactly like you would expect to see on a movie screen.
The Zagreb Christmas markets mainly take place in the city’s squares and center. Last year, the rich artistry of the handmade crafts dotted around the Christmas stalls was too much for me, and I purchased far too many trinkets.
Several cultural societies entertain passersby with beautiful music from local choirs, dancing, and live music. The performers are all dressed in Christmas regalia, and Croatian Christmas melodies waft through the air, setting the tone for the season.
While you listen, you can window-shop or buy seasonal gifts and other items at many of the shops and stores around the squares. If that is not enough, strap on your boots and head out onto the Zagreb ice skating rink set up in Ban Jelačić Square. Visiting Zagreb in December is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit.
- Cost: FREE admission
- Where to stay: Find a hotel in Zagreb. We recommend Hotel Esplanade, which we stayed at when we visited the markets in Zagreb. We loved this hotel.
- Local Tip: Look out for the Kameni Otok stand; they sell items made from Brački Kamen (Stone from Brač). There is an excellent mortar and pestle and a wall clock I have my eyes on!
2. Advent In Belišće
Not exactly hot on everyone’s Christmas in Croatia must-do list is Belišće. Throughout December, you will find many events that are a joyous culmination planned and performed by most citizens from the town, suburbs, and surrounding areas.
The people of Belišće really value coming together and being a part of the Christmas in Croatia celebrations.
The townspeople participate in the daily events organized by many civic groups, town institutions, clubs, and school choirs. This leads to the famous Croatian Christmas concert and fair, which includes many sporting events at the local ice rink.
Advent and Christmas in this city create a sense of community and togetherness. They feel that this time is vital for the community as it fosters unity and goodwill. You feel a sense of family at these beautiful celebrations.
- Cost: FREE admission
3. Advent In Marija Bistrica
If you want to spend a spiritual Christmas in Croatia, head to Marija Bistrica, arguably the most spiritual place.
Advent in Marija Bistrica is celebrated in the town’s central square, and it centers around a traditional celebration. Many of the shops, trees, and buildings are lovingly adorned with lights and marvelous decor.
Local artisans present traditional crafts and hold special workshops, mainly for children, who are a significant focus of the season. The most anticipated event takes place on December 6, St. Nicholas’ Day, when the town’s children receive a gift from St. Nick himself. It is a joyous and fun occasion for both boys, girls, and grown-ups.
- Cost: FREE admission
4. Advent In Split
December in Split is an exceptional time of the year to visit. With temperatures of around 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 Celsius), you can easily spend your Christmas in Croatia hanging out on the Riva by the sea. Cool, huh? Just be sure to bring a coat and grab a glass of mulled wine.
A Christmas in Split, Croatia, sees bustling Christmas markets filled with stands selling traditional Croatian Christmas food, souvenirs, and drinks all day long. Keep an eye out for those delicious Croatian Christmas cookies made by locals. During the evening, secure a position center stage for the festive concerts and folklore performances. If you like ice skating, head to Spaladium Arena and lace up your skates.
- Cost: FREE admission
- Where to stay: Find a hotel nearby.
5. Advent In Dubrovnik
This UNESCO-protected fortified Old Town comes to life in December. A Dubrovnik Christmas begins with Advent workshops for kids and the Feast of St Nicholas, where you’ll see all the local children out celebrating. Several other events, including the big event, the Advent concert held at Saint Blaise’s Church. It is hard to find online information on this Christmas in Croatia event, but trust me, it does happen each year.
- Cost: FREE admission
- Where to stay: Find a hotel nearby.
6. Advent In Delnice
Priceless family moments with fun, family-friendly events in the Gorski Kotar area are held each weekend in December. Streets covered in snow, wood fires burning, and mulled wine, sausages, and cookies are calling your name.
The residents of Delnice, a charming little town and, in fact, the highest town in Croatia, invite you to join them in the Village of Bake Mraz. On display are farm animals, carriage rides, and creative workshops and activities for kids. They can even meet Mrs. Santa Claus!
Each Friday and Saturday evening, the stage is filled with local performers, concerts, and various exhibitions. On Saturday and Sunday, various daytime events entertain children and adults alike. In the main square, you’ll find a food fair filled with domestic products and unique Croatian souvenirs.
This year, the Advent celebrations in Delnice take place on four different weekends, from November 11 through December 29.
7. Advent In Štrigova
Advent celebration in Štrigova, a town located just kilometers from Slovenia, gives it an air of comfort and homeliness. There are several small celebrations in December, all leading up to the most celebrated Christmas Day.
The Christmas Fair is by far the most popular event. During the fair, the town looks like something out of a Charles Dickens novel. You will find homemade crafts and food and enjoy live concerts held in St. Mary Magdalene Church. The festivals carry on to New Year’s, complete with fireworks and more celebrations. The lights, sounds, and smells give life to this town’s traditional Christmas season.
Croatians love Advent and Christmas! It is one of the most highly celebrated and important times of the year. From the lighting of Advent candles to the music and smells that waft through the air, ushering in Christmas, everyone around feels the excitement and wonder of the Christmas season. It would make even the Grinchiest or Scroogiest person feel the spirit of Christmas all over again.
8. Advent In Zadar
Yet another town where you can enjoy Christmas in Croatia is Zadar. This charming and ancient town lies on the northern Dalmatian coast and has numerous incredible attractions suitable for year-round visits.
At the end of the year, however, Zadar turns into a winter holiday hotspot.
Advent in Zadar starts in November and runs until January. That amounts to no fewer than 40 days of Christmas and New Year’s celebrations and festivities!
Like elsewhere in Croatia, Zadar has its own Christmas market, where you can enjoy Christmas tunes and lights while sampling a wide variety of delicacies, from sausages and bacon sandwiches to hot smoothies and the classic mulled wine.
Of course, there’s an ice-skating rink, too, as well as numerous children’s Christmas programs and activities. Additionally, Zadar’s museums and theatres offer several different exhibitions and cultural events, including concerts, plays, and other performances.
The “Stroll Around the City” initiative aims to get locals and visitors alike walking around the city and eating at local restaurants, which serve discounted dishes.
- Cost: FREE admission
- Where to stay: Find a hotel nearby.
9. Christmas Story Of The Salaj Family: SalajLand
Located in the small town of Čazma, which is about 60 kilometers east of Zagreb, SalajLand is without question the region’s biggest Christmas event. It takes place on the property of the Salaj family and features no fewer than 5 million (!) Christmas lights.
You can follow many kilometers (or miles, if you will) of walking paths, all lit up by atmospheric and colorful lights, across wooden bridges, through woods, and around lakes. This is an incredibly popular destination in Croatia in December, so popular that there’s even a so-called Christmas Train from Zagreb to SalajLand.
This is such a magical event that describing it as a Christmas wonderland would actually do it justice! SalajLand is an absolute must-visit event if you’re in Croatia in December.
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More Markets, Regional Highlights & Practical Tips
If you’re planning to spend Christmas in Croatia, you’re in for a treat. While the magic of Zagreb’s famous Advent is well-known, there’s a lot more to discover throughout the country during the holiday season. Here’s a deeper dive into the regional differences, lesser-known markets, and practical tips that can make your Croatian Christmas genuinely unforgettable.
Regional Christmas Traditions: Discover The Local Flavors And Customs
Croatia is a country of diverse regions, each with its unique spin on Christmas celebrations. For example, in Dalmatia, the coast is alive with festive markets and seafood feasts. Here, Christmas Eve is all about bakalar, a dried cod dish that’s been part of the holiday tradition for generations. The region’s milder climate means you can stroll through markets without the need for heavy winter gear, making it perfect for those who prefer a milder festive season.
In contrast, Slavonia offers a more rustic, hearty Christmas experience. The chilly winter here calls for warm fireplaces and even warmer dishes like sarma (cabbage rolls) and roasted meats. The Christmas markets in this region often feature homemade sausages, local wines, and traditional crafts that you won’t find anywhere else.
Istria blends Italian and Croatian influences, and this is reflected in their Christmas celebrations.
The Istrian coast offers charming markets where you can sip on mulled wine made from local Teran grapes while browsing for truffle-infused treats. And don’t miss out on the pasutice, a pasta dish traditionally served on Christmas Eve.
Beyond Zagreb: Croatia’s Underrated Christmas Markets
While Zagreb’s Advent is a must-see, there are plenty of other markets across Croatia that deserve your attention. Dubrovnik’s Winter Festival transforms the Old Town into a festive wonderland. The historic walls are decked out in lights, and the markets offer everything from handmade ornaments to local sweets.
Plus, the lack of summer crowds makes it a great time to explore this famous city at a more relaxed pace.
For something truly unique, head to Šibenik. This coastal town hosts Croatia’s first plastic-free Christmas market, perfect for eco-conscious travelers. The market is set up in the city park, surrounded by beautifully lit trees, and offers a range of local products served in sustainable packaging. The atmosphere here is cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot for families.
If you’re looking for a snowy, picturesque Christmas, Delnice in Gorski Kotar is the place to be. This small town is Croatia’s highest, and its Christmas market feels like stepping into a winter postcard. Think snow-covered streets, hot mulled wine, and local performers bringing the holiday spirit to life. Kids will love the Village of Mrs. Claus, complete with farm animals and carriage rides.
Practical Tips For Your Croatian Christmas Adventure
Traveling around Croatia during the Christmas season is generally easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Weather
First, December weather can vary greatly depending on where you are. Coastal areas like Dalmatia and Istria are milder, while inland regions and the north can get quite cold, especially in places like Slavonia and Gorski Kotar. Pack accordingly if you plan to visit multiple regions.
Transportation
Public transportation is reliable, but renting a car can give you more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore smaller towns and markets off the beaten path. Just be mindful of local driving conditions, particularly in snowy or mountainous areas.
Business Closures
Finally, remember that Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are significant holidays in Croatia, and many businesses are closed or operate on reduced hours. Plan your shopping and dining around these dates to avoid any inconvenience.
By venturing beyond the well-known spots and embracing the local traditions, you’ll experience a Croatian Christmas that’s rich in culture, flavor, and festive cheer. Whether you’re wandering through a market in a coastal town or enjoying a hearty meal in a snowy village, Croatia offers a holiday experience that’s both unique and unforgettable.
Have you ever celebrated Christmas in Croatia? Which Christmas Markets in Croatia would you suggest?
From my family to yours, have an excellent, safe, and Merry Christmas.
Xmas wheat looks like a great tradition – think I’ll join in. Oh! See what you’ve started :-D
Whooooosie, Sorry Maria. Good thing it’s easy to do :)
I did Christmas wheat in the US last year, baked batches of “paprenjaci”, and as for licitar heart ornaments, the gingerbread was a nightmare to deal with – never again! :) I’ve seen decorations made from ružmarin in place of pine. As for the tree, can you make a small one from stuff you have around the house? Or find a baby pomegranate tree?
I’m finding it really fascinating reading about all the different ways things are done over there! Hope you have a great first Christmas in Croatia!
Thanks Anna. Merry Christmas to you.
I love that you don’t indulge the Santa lie – my parents never did, but partly that’s because we are an indian family. They didn’t want to give credit to a fat white man for all their hard work and who can blame them ?
YAY! Finally someone who is not telling me I am bad parent for it. Did you feel cheated?
Never bought into the whole Santa thing, mainly because my parents couldn’t stop grinning whenever they mentioned the chubby white-bearded man. Love the Christmas wheat tradition! Happy holidays!
Yay! Someone else who knew it was a crock of yaddda daddda. Happy Holidays back at you both!
wow it sounds so different over there at this time of year – really interesting to read about – especially Crimbo Wheat!
That does sound very different! I look forward to hearing more about you do at Christmas :)
I don’t celebrate Christmas myself but I love hearing about different traditions and the way things are done in different countries. Happy holidays! x
this is so interesting! I have no idea about the wheat. brill!
Very different than here, but almost refreshing to not have the overwhelming pressure that we seem to put on Christmas here. I don’t know if I could wait that long to put the tree up either though! :)
wow very different to the UK then! looking forward to hearing more about a croatian christmas!
Interesting! Much of this is similar in Hungary, but since I was in Budapest, there was a bit more of Christmas-ness than what you described here. The only thing I’ve never heard of this the Christmas wheat. Is it purely for decoration? Or do you eat it too?
It’s always wonderful to know how Christmas is celebrated in other parts of the world. Great things to know about Croatia. I like the Christmas wheat portion. I kinda like to low key version without all the commercialism that have seemed to take over the true meaning of Christmas. Love that angel ornament. Merry Christmas to you and your family and a lovely first one in Croatia.
love reading about all the different christmas traditions in this link up
It’s really interesting to hear about how other people celebrate Christmas – it must be quite refreshing in a way not to have all the commercial stuff that goes alongside Christmas these days x x
How interesting – I’d quite like not to be facing Christmas stuff from about October on – I think it does dilute the whole thing – so in that way Croatia gets my vote.
Just found your blog! Looking forward to reading it all! Thank you for taking the time to post everything. Information is key in a relocation. My wife and family are in the process of wanting to relocate to Croatia. We will visit this summer (may/june) and have zeroed in on Istria as fitting our needs. I am good with language and through my job here in the US I have met and spoken with MANY Croatians, Serbs and other Balkan people. I think with our goal of moving there to become a Croatian instead of an “expat” or American in Croatia (if that makes sense) we will be successful. I want to open my own café/bar serving good old fashioned southern American barbeque with a New Orleans twist on it!
Hvala!!
Sounds like a great venture – and Istria is a wonderful place. Enjoy your scouting trip there, you may also want to find another blog ‘Istria outside my window” for some inspiration.
Thank you so much for the suggestion of the other blog. Both of your blogs will help us get a better take on everything. Found you on fb so following the blog from there! Regards, waynek
Aww, your tree is up – yay! And my, that wheat is looking great!
I KNOW!!! So exciting…. I mean I waited long enough ;)
It’s great that you held out for a real tree! We are in Ethiopia for Christmas and our tree is a sad, little artificial one. Nonetheless, we are decking it out and found the only non-blinking Christmas lights in the country to decorate it. Sretan Božić!
A tree is a tree – better to have one than not! Merry Xmas back at you.
Wow, the wheat this is so weird – I’ve never heard of it! I am neck-deep into Christmas spirit, but I am kind of miffed that Russia has been invaded by the Western Christmas. Ours is on Jan 6-7th, and the big holiday stuff is for New Years, and involves no red-suited Santas, reindeer or Jingle Bells. GRR.
Merry Christmas now and for the New Year :)
I love the Christmas wheat idea, the kids would love it. I am all bought into Santa Im afraid – I would really miss that!
The wheat is a very kids activity, super easy!
I also like the fact that the Christmas fuss starts a lot later here. I’m also enjoying all the Christmas music on the radio! Have a wonderful Christmas!
Yes it’s so wonderful! Stretan Bozic to you also.
This week I have submitted a link to the guest post I have written about Christmas Destinations, it is not from my page, but I would love people to read this one this week :)
Thanks Marysia. We can certainly keep the link even though it does not have the badge & we hope to see you link up next year with more of your travels. Merry Christmas.
Thanks a lot!
Hiya, I am really glad I have found this information. Today bloggers publish just about gossips and internet and this is really irritating. A good website with interesting content, this is what I need. Thanks for keeping this site, I’ll be visiting it. Do you do newsletters? Cant find it.
Oh I miss my babas Bakalar it not the same having it on a hot day. I’m from Hvar left there 47 years ago when I was 11. We have been back many many time with our children and hope to bring our grandchildren one day.
Thank you for all your wonderful posts.
Yeah, I found my first Xmas here hard as it was cold. So strange so I know what you mean. You are so welcome, your comments are enough to make me smile all day. :D
Sounds great to me! Especially the lack of commercialism :)
I agree 100%!!!! Although this year I can see trees and ornaments already for sale in Zadar – so things are changing.
That’s nice too…always makes it more festive to have decorations around. It’s the TV commercials and marketing that kills me!
Hopefully to enjoy a Croatian one
NICE!! Make sure you are in Zagreb, no better place to be for Xmas!
love the “no santa lie” haha! couldnt agree more.
Great article! Any chance you can direct us to some recipes for the traditional Christmas cookies and cakes?
YES!!!!! I am preparing them this weekend. Next week I’ll have some good – easy ones in English for you!!
Yay! Can’t wait to see them. I have some Croatian cookbooks but my reading skills aren’t great. I tried to make čokoladne ploške figuring they looked pretty easy and the topping ended up more like a soup than a ganache lol
What about Sveti Nikola and Krumpus, celebrated on the 6th of December, good kids get a present, naughty kids get a visit from Krumpus. My daughters are grown women and are still shit scared of Krumpus!
You know what, we never did that as my son was so small – I never learned about it. I must learn and add it in, thanks Suzana Kubitzky
Suzana, my dear late dad was krumpas at the old chief st cro club…..wonderful times and memories!
Hello!!! I live in Croatia for almost whole my life and I can’t agree with you with some things! Santa Claus is all over the place and the ornaments you can find in Konzum and other Shopping Centers from November 5th!
When I wrote this article back in 2013 it was not the case – there were no Christmas decorations for sale that early – I did see many more this year that is for sure. In Australia the department stores have WHOLE MASSIVE sections for decorations, not just one isle like Konzum. I STILL have never seen a live Santa in any shopping mall – every mall has one in USA or Australia (or similar). If you spent time in these places you’d soon see the VERY HUGE difference between one Santa photo versus the commercialism there.
Hi, nicely done and written. always great to find new information in your blog. so useful and practical for me.
What do you mean NO CHRISTMAS TREE? No, no, no! It’s the whole point. :D
I love reading about other traditions. What an extensive post you have put together on Croatia. It was a great read.