The peak of the summer season on the Kvarner Riviera brings a week filled with diverse events that will satisfy the tastes of all visitors and residents. At the heart of these happenings is Novi Vinodolski, a town of rich history and tourist tradition, which in the coming days becomes the epicenter of music, culture, gastronomy, and tradition. The entire week ahead offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the authentic coastal way of life, from revived history in the old town core to cheerful folk festivals in the surrounding places.

Okolotorno: The last journey through history this summer

The central cultural-historical event of the week, the Okolotorno manifestation, will have its final edition of the year today, Wednesday, August 13th. From 7:30 PM until late in the evening, at 11:30 PM, the stone streets of the old town will once again become an open-air stage. Historical figures who marked this region will proudly walk through them. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet the powerful Frankopan princes, the family that ruled this area for centuries and left an indelible mark, primarily through the Vinodol Codex of 1288, one of the oldest legal documents in Europe written in the Glagolitic script. They will be accompanied by the "people's ban" Ivan Mažuranić, born right here in Novi Vinodolski, as well as his granddaughter, the celebrated writer Ivana Brlić-Mažuranić, whose stories are woven into the childhood of many generations. To make the experience complete, these historical figures will be accompanied by members of the Cultural and Artistic Society "Ilija Dorčić," dressed in lavish and colorful Novi folk costumes, thus preserving a valuable ethnographic heritage.

A special charm to this event will be given by two authentic coastal taverns, which open their doors exclusively for this occasion, offering visitors a taste of local delicacies and a drop of good wine. The entire Old Town will be permeated with the sounds of music, as various music bands will perform at as many as four points, creating a unique soundscape. The stands of numerous exhibitors will offer original handicrafts and souvenirs, ideal as a memento of this special evening. The youngest visitors will not be forgotten either; a rich entertainment program has been prepared for them, which includes popular face painting and the opportunity to try their hand at archery, thus returning to the age of knights. As a special touch to the last Okolotorno of the year, the little carnival participants will also contribute, announcing that the spirit of tradition lives on among the youngest generations. This is an evening where history, tradition, and entertainment merge into a unique experience that only Novi Vinodolski can provide.

Music fever before and during the Assumption of Mary

This week's music program brings something for everyone, from Dalmatian pop to Kvarner ballads. Already on Thursday, August 14th, on the eve of the Feast of the Assumption, the nearby Povile becomes an unmissable destination for all lovers of Dalmatian song. In the popular Caffe Bar Puntica, starting at 9:00 PM, a major concert by one of the most popular Croatian bands – Dalmatino – will take place. Their hits, which combine modern pop sound with Mediterranean melodies, guarantee an evening full of emotions and dancing under the starry sky. Tickets are available at the entrance or in advance through the Entrio.hr system, priced at €15.00 for regular tickets and €50.00 for exclusive VIP tickets.

At the same time, on Thursday from 8:00 PM, the hinterland of Novi Vinodolski offers a different, but equally attractive experience. In Donji Zagon, the traditional Zagonj Night will be held. The proven masters of festivity, the tamburitza band Ferali, will ensure a superb atmosphere, and their repertoire will get all generations dancing. Visitors can also expect a rich gastronomic offer of autochthonous dishes, which makes this event a perfect blend of music and local flavors.

On the Feast of the Assumption itself, Friday, August 15th, the musical events return to the center of Novi Vinodolski. On the main stage, starting at 9:00 PM, the beloved voice of Kvarner, Joso Butorac, will perform, accompanied by the group Vivak. Their performance guarantees an evening filled with famous melodies and a romantic atmosphere. The music weekend continues on Saturday, August 16th, when from 9:00 PM on the same stage, the Kvartet Times will play, bringing their unique musical expression and guaranteeing a pleasant Saturday evening in the heart of the town.

The tradition continues: Hunter's and Klenovar's Night

The weekend also brings two traditional festivals that celebrate local customs and gastronomy. On Saturday, August 16th, in the village of Radinje, starting at 6:00 PM, the popular Hunter's Night will be held. Organized by the Hunting Society "Košutnjak – Novi," this event offers a unique insight into the hunting tradition of the region. Visitors can expect an extremely rich gastronomic offer of hunting specialties, and the tamburitza band Ferali will take care of the cheerful atmosphere. Along with music and delicacies, a rich raffle with valuable prizes will be organized.

Sunday, August 17th, brings a double program. For lovers of a more intimate atmosphere, at the beautiful location of Precrikva in Novi Vinodolski, starting at 9:00 PM, a special concert will be held. This time, Joso Butorac performs in a more elegant edition, with the piano accompaniment of maestro Mladen Žmak. An evening filled with the most beautiful ballads in a unique ambiance awaits us, and admission to the concert is free. At the same time, in the picturesque Klenovica, the traditional Klenovar's Night will take place. This fishing village, known for its beauty and gastronomy, will host numerous visitors again this year. The duo Mirakul is in charge of the musical part of the evening, and a rich offer of fresh fish specialties and other coastal delicacies will be in the foreground. Klenovar's Night is an ideal opportunity for a relaxed gathering by the sea, with music and flavors that define this region, providing a perfect end to a fulfilling summer week.