For the second year in a row, the historic town of Cres is preparing for a transformation not often seen. This weekend, from June 27th to 29th, the stone streets, picturesque squares, and ancient palaces will not just be monuments of the past, but will become the epicenter of magic, fantasy, and incredible encounters. The "Isle of Wonders" festival opens its doors once again, turning the entire island into a living stage where worlds from books, films, and legends meet. Forget about everyday life, because Cres will be ruled by knights in shining armor, wise wizards, elves from hidden forests, and heroes we have only met on the big screen. The imposing Moise Palace, the Venetian tower that proudly guards the town, and the labyrinth of narrow streets will become the backdrop for the first and only island fantasy convention in Croatia, an event that combines elements of history, folklore, and modern pop culture into a unique experience. If you are looking for the perfect place to stay during this magical event, ideal accommodation in Cres awaits you.

Star Guests from Middle-earth and the world of Dungeons & Dragons

This year's edition of the festival brings a touch of Hollywood glamour and legends from the world of fantasy. Two true heroes who have marked one of the greatest film sagas of our time are coming to Cres. Actors Jed Brophy and Adam Brown, best known to the audience for their roles as the brave dwarves Nori and Ori from Peter Jackson's epic trilogy "The Hobbit," will be the guests of honor at the festival. Their arrival is not just an opportunity for a photo or an autograph; it is a meeting with the people who breathed life into the characters from Tolkien's Middle-earth. Visitors will be able to hear anecdotes from the filming firsthand, feel the spark of enthusiasm carried by true lovers of stories and fantasy, and toast with them under the starry sky of Cres. Both have promised to spend the entire weekend with fans, sharing their experiences in an informal gathering.

But that's not all. The world of fantasy is unimaginable without the game that defined the genre – Dungeons & Dragons. Directly from the heart of that legend, Luke Gygax, the son of the creator of D&D, Gary Gygax, is coming to the island. His presence represents a bridge between the roots of tabletop RPGs and its modern renaissance. He is joined by Kate Welch, one of the most influential figures in the contemporary D&D scene, a former designer at Wizards of the Coast and a storyteller whose adventures are followed by millions. The two of them will not be just passive observers; they will lead exclusive D&D sessions where lucky individuals will have the opportunity to crawl through dungeons, fight dragons, and create their own legends under the guidance of true masters of the craft. These are living stories where every roll of the dice shapes destiny, and every decision builds an unforgettable adventure.

The Art Forge: A Forge of Art and Humanity

One of the brightest gems of this year's festival is certainly the new initiative called The Art Forge. Conceived as a living workshop of imagination, this forge of art will gather some of the most recognized names in fantasy illustration today in one place. In the unique ambiance of the Moise Palace, visitors will have a rare opportunity to watch as magical works are created under the fingers of masters. World-renowned artists will bring their canvases and digital tablets to life: Tyler Jacobson (USA), whose works have graced the covers of Dungeons & Dragons manuals, Milivoj Ćeran (Croatia), known for his mythological depictions, Anna Podedworna (Poland), Katerina Ladon (Italy), Marco Bernardini (Italy), and Inna Vjuzhanina (Ukraine).

These artists will create before the eyes of the audience, turning inspiration into visual magic. But The Art Forge also has a deeper, humanitarian mission. On the last day of the festival, all the created artworks will be offered at an auction. The collected funds are intended for the local community – for the beautification and improvement of the quality of life of the elderly members of the island's home for the retired. In this way, the world of fantasy directly contributes to the real world, connecting creative energy with a noble cause.

A Rich Program for All Generations

"Isle of Wonders" is not a festival just for die-hard fans, but is designed as a place of entertainment for the whole family and all ages. The program is filled with diverse activities that allow visitors to become part of the fantastic story themselves. For those eager for action, there are sword fighting and archery workshops, where they can learn the basics of these ancient skills under the watchful eye of experienced instructors. Creative individuals will find their place in workshops for craft making and miniature figure painting, where imagination has no limits.

Fans of socializing and competition can gather around tables with board games or test their knowledge in themed Pub Quizzes that promise a tense but extremely fun atmosphere. The pinnacle of the visual spectacle will certainly be the CosPlay competition. A parade of incredible costumes is expected, from detailed replicas of film heroes to original creations inspired by fantasy. It is an opportunity to see how much effort, skill, and love cosplayers invest in their characters, turning themselves into walking works of art. To enjoy all these activities without a care, secure your accommodation in Cres on time.

Musical Backdrop for an Epic Adventure

Every good story needs a perfect musical score, and on the Isle of Wonders, it will be loud, energetic, and thematically impeccable. The evening hours are reserved for concerts that will fill the Cres night with melodies from distant worlds. Taking the stage is Balkalar Band, a group that uniquely combines the traditional music of the Balkans with modern arrangements, creating a sound that is both ancient and contemporary. Their music fits perfectly into the historical ambiance of Cres.

After them, the atmosphere will be brought to a boiling point by the legends of the Rijeka scene – B Belfast Food. Their recognizable sound, inspired by Irish folk, has been synonymous with partying and good fun for decades. The rhythm of their songs will make even the most tired adventurers dance. And when the concerts quiet down, the fun doesn't stop. The night is taken over by DJs Gandalf & Saruman, whose names say it all. This DJ duo will ensure that the fantastic adventure continues long into the night with carefully selected beats.

Cres – The Perfect Stage for a World of Fantasy

The success and uniqueness of this festival are inextricably linked to its location. The town of Cres is not just a host; it is an active participant and the most important protagonist of the story. Its preserved historical core, with stone houses, the Renaissance Moise Palace, and Venetian defensive towers, provides an authentic and unsurpassed backdrop. A walk through the narrow, cobbled streets is in itself a journey through time, and when they are filled with characters from imagination, the illusion becomes complete.

Behind the entire organization stands the enthusiasm and love of the local association Realms Long Forgotten. A group of best friends from Cres, longtime fantasy lovers, decided to share their passion with the world. Their dedication and vision to create an event that will enrich the cultural offer of the island and bring together a community of like-minded people is felt at every step. It is precisely this local rootedness that gives the festival its soul and warmth, turning it from a mere convention into a true celebration of imagination and friendship. Experience this unique atmosphere and find your corner in a fairytale by securing accommodation in Cres.