Find out how Kvarner, as the European Region of Gastronomy 2026, brings together carnival customs, parade festivities, and a table full of local dishes. We provide an overview of the opening in Matulji and announcements of events in Rijeka, Opatija, and other Kvarner destinations during the carnival period. Plan your visit to Kvarner to the rhythm of carnival and local flavors.
Find out where to gather for the free tours of Rijeka and Trsat in the “Get to Know Your Country” project on Sunday, 18 January 2026 at 12:00. It is a national initiative of guides with the support of the Croatian National Tourist Board, on the occasion of the Day of International Recognition. We bring the departure points and the registration method because the number of participants is limited.
Find out who the faces of the campaign „The people who make the carnival“ are and how Sandra Picco with the Draga maskers spends months preparing costumes, choreographies, and events like Masked bocce, as Rijeka enters the Fifth Season 2026. We also bring the key dates of the parades and the exhibition on Korzo that reminds that the carnival is made by people, not only masks.
Find out how Rijeka turns into a stage of freedom, satire and togetherness during carnival time. We bring an overview of key dates, parades, charity events and the people who make Rijeka Carnival 2026, from children’s masks to international guests, with tips for visitors planning their arrival, accommodation and stay in the city during the fifth season.
Find out how Motovun on 18 January 2026 turns into a large open-air classroom with a free tour of the historic old-town core, a walk along the Motovun walls and costumed guiding by the Venetian captain Sebastian Venier through the Get to Know Your Country project that invites citizens and visitors to rediscover their own heritage.
Here is an overview of Opatija Carnival 2026: opening on 17 January at the market, the Children’s Carnival Corso on 1 February and Balinjerada on 8 February with Taxi balinjere and Kukalka, plus the Masked Klapa Marathon on 6 February in the Marino Cvetković Hall. Find out the main routes, when to expect the biggest crowds and what the carnival “fifth season” brings.