Inspired by tradition and local customs, the picturesque town of Klimno on the island of Krk is preparing for a unique event that will revive the spirit of times past. On Saturday, May 3, 2025, the Kivna Association proudly organizes an event called "Kivna po starinsku tonca", inviting all lovers of authentic experiences, good music, traditional gastronomy, and old games to join them in the afternoon and evening hours.

This event, whose name evokes dancing and fun in the old, traditional way ("toncati" means to dance in the local dialect), is designed as a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Klimno and the entire island of Krk. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the atmosphere that once prevailed in this coastal town, known for its shipbuilding tradition and the peaceful Soline bay.

Musical rhythms for everyone's taste

The music program begins already at 5:30 PM with a performance by the energetic band Tri mladića. These musicians gained wider popularity after winning the renowned Melodije Istre i Kvarnera (MIK) festival in 2024, captivating the audience with their infectious rhythms and authentic expression that combines modern sound with elements of local musical tradition. Their performance will surely warm up the atmosphere and prepare visitors for the rich remainder of the evening.

Following them, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM, the Tabako band takes the stage. Known for their wide repertoire covering domestic and foreign hits of various genres, Tabako band guarantees good fun and dancing for all generations. Their music will create a pleasant backdrop for socializing and enjoying the other contents of the event.

The highlight of the musical part of the evening is expected at 9:00 PM, when the esteemed Klapa Tramuntana will perform. Known for nurturing traditional klapa singing, with a cappella performances that touch the soul, the members of Klapa Tramuntana will bring a touch of original coastal melancholy and beauty. Their songs, often inspired by the sea, love, and life on the island, will perfectly fit into the ambiance of the "Kivna po starinsku tonca" event. Klapa singing, as an indispensable part of the Dalmatian and coastal cultural heritage, will provide a special emotional experience.

Traditional games and skills

Parallel to the music program, from 5:30 PM onwards, visitors will be able to participate in or watch an exciting tournament in balanje. This traditional game, also known as bocce, is deeply rooted in the culture of Mediterranean countries, including the Croatian coast. Precision, a steady hand, and strategy are key to success in balanje, and watching skilled players is always an interesting experience. Fans of card games will also get their share as games of the popular briškula and trešeta will be organized. These games, which require skill, memory, and good cooperation with a partner (in the case of trešeta), have been a favorite pastime of the local population for generations, especially during long winter evenings or during breaks from hard work. The question "KI ĆE?!" (Who will win?!) will surely resonate among the players, adding to the competitive spirit and fun.

Tastes and smells of tradition

The gastronomic part of the event will be dedicated to autochthonous dishes that represent the heart of the local cuisine. A special attraction will be the presentation of making homemade makaruni. Visitors will be able to see firsthand how the dough is kneaded and these traditional pasta shapes, often prepared for festive occasions, are formed. The skill of making makaruni has been passed down from generation to generation, and each family often has its own little secret for the perfect dough.

In addition, master chefs will prepare brudet, the famous fish specialty. Cooking brudet outdoors, with the spread of tempting aromas, will be a special experience. This thick fish stew, traditionally prepared from various types of fresh fish and seafood, with the addition of tomatoes, onions, wine, and spices, is an indispensable part of the coastal table. The best part for all visitors is that the prepared dishes – both makaruni and brudet – can be tasted for free in small portions, providing an opportunity to enjoy the authentic flavors of Klimno.

A glimpse into the maritime past and folklore

From 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, an exhibition of caulking tools will be set up. Klimno is historically known for its skilled shipbuilders, caulkers (kalafati), who built and repaired wooden ships. The exhibition of the tools they used in their demanding craft – various axes, saws, chisels, hammers for driving oakum and pitch into the seams of planks to make the ship watertight – will provide insight into an important part of local history and maritime heritage. Visitors will be able to better understand the effort and skill required to build traditional wooden vessels that were the lifeblood of the island for centuries.

In the period from 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM, the program will be enriched by a performance called "Kanot i folklor". This segment is dedicated to the preservation of local songs ("kanot" - singing in the local dialect) and dances. A performance by a local folklore group is expected, presenting traditional costumes, songs, and dance steps characteristic of the island of Krk and the town of Klimno, further contributing to the authentic atmosphere of the event.

Evening chats with Irena Grdinić

A special segment of the program, scheduled from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM, bears the intriguing title "Pridi, vidi, potla ćakulaj s Irenom Grdinić". The popular host and comedian Irena Grdinić, known for her sharp humor and charming hosting, will socialize with visitors. The "come, see, then chat" format suggests a relaxed and interactive atmosphere, likely filled with laughter, interesting conversations, and comments on events, local stories, or current affairs, all in the recognizable style of Irena Grdinić. This part of the program will surely attract many seeking good fun and laughter.

The event "Kivna po starinsku tonca" in Klimno offers a complete experience that combines music, gastronomy, traditional games, crafts, and local folklore. The organizer, the Kivna Association, has made an effort to devise a rich and varied program that will satisfy different tastes and interests, while simultaneously promoting and preserving the valuable cultural heritage of this region. Free tastings of autochthonous dishes are an additional incentive to visit Klimno this Saturday and experience the unique atmosphere of celebrating tradition on the island of Krk.