Unique events & festivals in Croatia this spring!

If you thought that Croatia is just about the “sun and sea” in the months of July and August, you might think differently after checking out these pretty unique events taking place all over Croatia in April, May and June – it might be time to reconsider your time of visit and what to do when in Croatia, especially if you’re into art, sport, food or festivals!

1. Red Bull Air Race in Rovinj - for the first time in Croatia, on April 12-13 on the Istrian coastline, promising to be a great show in the air!

Red Bull Air Races, the most extreme aerial competition, will tour seven countries on three continents, including Abu Dhabi, Croatia, Malaysia, Poland, Great Britain, the USA and China. Read more about it, the programme and how to get tickets here

2. Zagreb Wine Gourmet weekend

When many of our friends and other visitors came to Croatia for the first time, they commented on a lack of international food options, but noticing plenty of italian-type foods, pizza, pasta and fish. Though for some this is ideal, for those wanting more international options, you must visit Zagreb on April 19-20 for the international food festival – check out all about it on the official website here

3. Marco Polo challenge triathlon in Korčula

The Croatian legend says that Marco Polo was born in Croatia, in Korčula, and you can even see his (tiny) birthplace when you’re there.  Connected to this, we now also have a sporting event, taking place on April 26th this year, great time to visit and also get involved in swimming in the clear waters, running through heritage sites and cycling one of Croatia’s most beautiful islands. See how to register and other details about the triathlon here

4. 100 miles of Istria – Ultratrail

A slightly more extreme sporting event awaits for you in Istria, dare to take up the challallenge of the ultra trail while taking in the natural environment and spring time atmopshere of Istria, on April 11-13, with more info here

5. Croatian one-minute film festival

Now something for the more artistic at heart, anyone can apply by submitting their one-minute film by April 22nd. The festival itself will take place on May 28-31 2014 in Požega, Croatia – if you check out the festival, it will also be a good time to visit the rest of the country side of Croatia, Slavonia. Read more about how to register and other festival info here

6. Adriatic boat show in Šibenik

We haven’t forgotten about the boaties! Croatia’s biggest boat show will take place on May 9th-12th this year in Šibenik, a new venue for this 5th annual event. Official website link

7.  Wine festival in Gračišće, Istria

On April 21st, Easter Monday, traditionally this unique wine festival will take place in the small Istrian hilltop town of Gračišće. Read more about small Istrian towns which you can visit during your visit in Istria here . The atmosphere at this particular fest promises to be fantastic - the whole town gets filled up with wine exhibitors and visitors, and on town entry you purchase a pouch and a glass (for a small price, something like 5 euros), then you’re able to walk around all day and fill up the glass, tasting different wines! Just make sure you have a designated driver…

8. Picigin competition in Split, Bačvice beach

The game of picigin was invented on Split’s beach Bačvice. Read more about it and the annual competition here This year’s competition in taking place on June 15th. Check it out, and try it out too!

9. Fiumanka regatta in Rijeka

For all those who love sailing, as well as good time outdoors, it’s time to visit Rijeka’s biggest regatta – Fiumanka ! 

10. Street performers festival in Split

Last but not the least, is our suggestion to visit Split during the street performers’ festival. We will be getting into the summer season by now, June 16-28, you’ll be able to make the most of the long sunny days, as well as enjoy the nights on the streets filled with events and international performers in Croatia’s second largest city. See more information about the festival here

For any other questions or suggestions of events to add, contact us here . See you soon in Croatia!

Slider-image credit: Jim Larrison