A city that proudly preserves its rich history and tradition, Novi Vinodolski, is preparing for the second, even more spectacular edition of the event that won the hearts of locals and visitors last year. From Friday, July 4, to Sunday, July 6, the streets and squares of this Kvarner pearl will become the epicenter of a unique blend of cultural heritage and nostalgic fun under the name "Mesopust Nostalgia". The three-day event will revive the spirit of past times, intertwining protected Mesopust customs with the unforgettable rhythms and charm of the seventies and eighties of the last century.

The entire city will be transformed into a dynamic stage, with the main events spread across three key locations: Frankopan Square, Square of the Vinodol Law, and the Promenade of Croatian Defenders. The organizers, led by the Tourist Board of the City of Novi Vinodolski, promise a program that will satisfy all generations and tastes, creating memories that will be long remembered.

A Return to the Roots: An Evening Dedicated to Mesopust

The event begins on Friday, July 4, with a program at 8 PM that celebrates the most valuable thing Novi Vinodolski has to offer – its Mesopust. This unique carnival custom, which can be continuously traced back to the 19th century, is also recognized at the national level and was inscribed in the Register of Protected Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Republic of Croatia in 2011. Friday evening will be dedicated to this very gem of tradition.

A festive procession will pass through the city center, along the Promenade of Croatian Defenders, consisting of the Mesopustari, the tireless guardians of the custom, members of the Cultural-Artistic Society "Ilija Dorčić", and dedicated individuals from the Chair of the Chakavian Parliament "Novljansko kolo". They will be joined by many locals, dressed in magnificent and vibrant Novi Vinodolski folk costumes, creating a breathtaking sight. The highlight of the evening will be the performance of the authentic Novi Vinodolski kolo, which will be danced to the accompaniment of "kolo singers". Their singing gives rhythm and soul to the kolo, and the sound of the traditional sopila will round off this impressive display of cultural heritage, stopping time and reviving the spirit of the old Novi Vinodolski carnivals. The organizers extend a heartfelt invitation to all citizens who own a costume to join the procession and the kolo, as it is the mass participation and unity that give this event its authenticity and strength.

After tradition shows its beauty, the fun continues in a more modern rhythm. Visitors will be entertained until the late hours by the band Misho i Kovači and DJ Boris, ensuring that the dancing and good mood continue. Special attention has also been paid to the youngest, for whom a children's corner with a creative workshop for painting canvas bags has been prepared, giving them the opportunity to become part of the creative spirit of the event themselves.

Saturday Fever in the Rhythm of Disco

Saturday evening, July 5, is reserved for a musical and stylistic time machine that will take everyone present back to the golden age of disco music. Novi Vinodolski will turn into a huge retro dance floor under the stars, with as many as two stages from which the hits of the seventies and eighties will echo. The atmosphere will be further enriched by an original backdrop provided by members of the Vespa Club Novi Vinodolski and the Oldtimer Club Rijeka. Their shiny and meticulously preserved examples of Vespas and cars from that period will be displayed in the very center of the city, serving as a perfect background for photography in numerous retro photo booths.

The musical part is entrusted to true masters of retro sound. Disco Magic Band, DJ Luca Montecchi, and David Danijel with his Dance Party will ensure that the dance rhythms leave no one indifferent. Organizers invite visitors to dig deep into their closets, find forgotten bell-bottoms, colorful shirts, sequins, and other vintage pieces, and contribute with their outfits to creating an authentic and cheerful atmosphere that will revive old memories and create new ones. Along with music and dancing, visitors will be able to enjoy a rich gastronomic offer tailored to the theme of the evening.

Fun on Wheels and Community Support

Throughout the weekend, from July 4 to 6, the popular Rolly park returns to Ivan Mažuranić Square. This area will be dedicated to all roller skating enthusiasts, who will be able to enjoy skating completely free of charge in the evening hours to the musical backdrop of hits from past decades. It is an ideal opportunity for families and young people to have active fun and feel a touch of nostalgia on wheels.

The success and richness of the "Mesopust Nostalgia" program would not be possible without the strong support and cooperation of key city institutions and associations. The event is organized by the Tourist Board of the City of Novi Vinodolski, with the wholehearted support of the City of Novi Vinodolski. The contribution of the guardians of tradition – the Chair of the Chakavian Parliament "Novljansko kolo" and the Cultural-Artistic Society "Ilija Dorčić", who have been working diligently for decades to preserve the local identity, is indispensable. Logistical and organizational support is also provided by the Center for Culture, the municipal commercial company Ivanj, the Vespa Club Novi Vinodolski, and the Oldtimer Club Rijeka. The importance of the event has also been recognized by the umbrella tourist organizations, the Kvarner Tourist Board and the Croatian National Tourist Board. However, the greatest value lies in the enthusiasm and participation of numerous fellow citizens who, through their engagement, confirm that "Mesopust Nostalgia" is an event that truly combines the spirit of tradition and the energy of fun, celebrating the community and the heart of this region.