Rovinj, the pearl of the Adriatic coast, traditionally dons its most festive attire with the first days of September, preparing for one of the most anticipated events of the year – the Eufemia Festival. This festival, dedicated to the city's patron saint, St. Euphemia, represents a symbolic and celebratory farewell to summer and an invitation to enjoy the last warm days in the city's unique ambiance. This year's edition, which will take place during the first weekend of September, once again promises plenty of good music, top-notch entertainment, and authentic gastronomic delicacies, turning Rovinj's squares and streets into a vibrant open-air stage. Organized by the Tourist Board of the Town of Rovinj-Rovigno, the festival has become an unmissable meeting point for both the local population and the many tourists who plan their stay at this time of year to experience the authentic spirit of the city. Many of them have already secured their accommodation in Rovinj so as not to miss a moment of this extraordinary event.

Grand Opening with Traditional Sounds and Pop Rhythms

The festival events begin on Friday, September 5th, in a way that perfectly combines tradition and modern entertainment. As early as 6:30 PM, the streets of the old town will be filled with the sounds of the Rovinj Brass Band, whose long history testifies to the city's rich cultural heritage. Their ceremonial parade, accompanied by the attractive and coordinated steps of the Rovinj Majorettes, will create an overture worthy of the start of a great celebration. This picturesque procession will pass through the city center, bringing a touch of festivity and inviting everyone present to join the evening program. The main stage on Marshal Tito Square will come to life at 8:30 PM, when the energetic band Grooversi will play the first chords. Known for their dynamic performances and a wide repertoire that includes the biggest domestic and foreign hits, Grooversi are masters at creating a hot atmosphere and are the ideal choice to warm up the audience. Their music will get even the shyest visitors dancing and set the stage for the stars of the evening.

The highlight of the first day of the festival is undoubtedly the performance of the legendary group Magazin, scheduled for 10:30 PM. This pop band from Split, which has been active on the music scene since 1979, rightly holds the status of an institution. Through decades of existence, Magazin has produced countless hits that have marked generations, and their songs like "Kokolo," "Ti si želja mog života," or "Sve bi seke ljubile mornare" have become part of the general culture. With their recognizable Mediterranean pop sound and songs that celebrate love and Dalmatia, Magazin has won the hearts of audiences throughout the region. Their concerts are always filled with emotion and nostalgia, and the audience sings every verse in unison. There is no doubt that Marshal Tito Square will be filled to capacity, and the performance of this cult band will provide visitors with an unforgettable musical treat under the starry Rovinj sky.

Rock'n'Roll Saturday and Musical Diversity in the Squares

The second day of the festival, Saturday, September 6th, brings a continuation of the musical spectacle, with a special emphasis on fans of heavier sounds. The program on the main town square begins at 8:30 PM with a performance by the band Febra, a local musical force already well-known to the Rovinj audience. With their energy and passionate performance of popular rock and pop hits, Febra will ensure a great mood and prepare the atmosphere for the arrival of true rock legends. After them, the cult band Psihomodo pop will take the stage, a band that has indebted the Croatian music scene with its uncompromising rock'n'roll attitude and stage charisma. Led by the inimitable Davor Gobac, Psihomodo pop has been delivering pure rock energy for almost four decades. Their hits like "Frida," "Ja volim samo sebe," "Ramona," and "Sexy magazin" have become rock anthems sung with equal fervor by both old and new fans. Their performance in Rovinj will be an opportunity for the audience to surrender to the raw power of rock music and experience a concert that will be talked about for a long time to come. A real explosion of sound and energy is expected, which will shake the foundations of the old town.

At the same time, to expand the musical offer to different locations and tastes, Riviera Square will become a stage for a different musical experience. There, the band Le Cronache will entertain visitors, bringing their unique musical expression to the more intimate ambiance of the square by the sea. This diversification of the program allows visitors to choose the atmosphere that suits them best, whether it's a large concert spectacle on the main square or a more relaxed gig on the picturesque waterfront. A walk through the city that evening will be filled with different melodies coming from all sides, creating a unique soundscape and confirming Rovinj's status as a city that lives for music and art. For those who want to experience all the charms of the festival, it is ideal to find private accommodation near the center, which allows easy access to all events.

A Gastronomic Rhapsody of Istrian Flavors

The Eufemia Festival would not be complete without a rich gastronomic offer that celebrates the authentic flavors of Istria. Along the city's waterfront and on Riviera Square, visitors will have the opportunity to embark on a true culinary journey. Numerous stalls and cottages will offer a variety of local specialties, from freshly caught fish prepared in the traditional way, such as on the grill, to the unmissable seafood. The menu will also feature Istrian prosciutto, cheese with truffles, homemade pasta like fuži and pljukanci with various sauces, and meat delicacies from the Boškarin (Istrian ox). This is a unique opportunity to taste the best flavors Istria has to offer in one place, and the aromas that will spread along the waterfront will entice passers-by to stop and indulge in hedonistic pleasures. Every bite will be imbued with tradition and a love for local ingredients, providing an authentic experience of Istrian cuisine. Many visitors come to Rovinj precisely for the combination of culture and cuisine, and finding the ideal apartment or room allows them to fully immerse themselves in the local way of life.

Of course, top Istrian specialties are unimaginable without a drop of excellent wine. Winemakers from the Rovinj area will proudly present their best wines, with an emphasis on the indigenous Istrian Malvasia, a fresh and mineral white wine that pairs perfectly with fish dishes. Fans of red wines will be able to enjoy the powerful Teran, a wine with a rich taste that ideally accompanies meat specialties and mature cheeses. In addition to wine, the offer will also include homemade brandies, liqueurs, and craft beers from local producers. Visitors will be able to enjoy a glass of their favorite drink while strolling along the waterfront, listening to music, and soaking up the unique atmosphere of the festival. The gastronomic offer at the Eufemia Festival is not just about food and drink; it is a celebration of the richness and diversity of the Istrian region and an opportunity to create unforgettable memories through the tastes and smells that define this magical peninsula.