The Kvarner region, known for its vibrant tapestry of cultural, entertainment, musical, and sports events, this weekend once again confirms its status as an unmissable destination for all those eager for diverse experiences. There is hardly a corner of this area that does not offer some interesting content, and the upcoming days will especially delight fans of traditional music in a contemporary guise and enthusiasts of sport fishing at sea. From Friday, May 9, 2025, until Sunday, May 11, 2025, Kvarner will pulsate to the rhythm of music and sportsmanship, offering residents and visitors unique experiences.

The tradition of brass bands in a new light on the Opatija Riviera

One of the central events of this weekend is undoubtedly the 33rd edition of the International Wind Orchestra Festival titled "Our World is Music". This renowned festival, hosted and organized by the diligent Puhački orkestar Lovran, represents a true treat for all music lovers throughout the Opatija Riviera. The festival not only celebrates the long-standing tradition of wind orchestras but also successfully positions it within a contemporary musical context, showcasing its vitality and adaptability. Wind orchestras, often also called brass bands, represent one of the oldest forms of organized music-making. At their core, these are most often associations of musical enthusiasts and amateurs connected by a sincere and deep love for music and joint creation. Over decades, even centuries, these ensembles have evolved, raising the level of their performance, expanding their repertoire, and surpassing previous expectations and technical capabilities. Today's wind orchestras boldly venture into various musical genres, from classical marches and traditional compositions, through arrangements of popular film music and jazz standards, to contemporary original compositions written specifically for such ensembles. Their ability to convey a wide range of emotions and styles is truly impressive.

The "Our World is Music" festival in Lovran is an ideal opportunity for the public to witness this transformation and the high quality of today's amateur orchestras. This year, Lovran will host three exceptional orchestras from the region and abroad, each with its own rich history and specific musical expression. From Montenegro comes Gradska glazba Budva, known for its Mediterranean temperament and energetic performances. From Croatia, more precisely from Donji Kaštela, comes Hrvatsko glazbeno društvo Zrinski, an ensemble with a long and proud tradition of nurturing Croatian musical heritage. The international character of the festival will be complemented by Il Gruppo Folkloristico Musica di Palazzuolo Sul Senio from Italy, bringing a touch of Italian folk music and cheerfulness.

Musical notes throughout Kvarner: Festival program

The magic of wind music will not be limited only to Lovran. The festival is designed to bring music closer to the widest possible audience, so concerts will be held at several attractive locations throughout the region. Residents and visitors of Mošćenička Draga will have the opportunity to enjoy the orchestras' performances and explore ADJUST THE TEXT CONTENT YOURSELF for a stay in this picturesque coastal town. Of course, the central venue will be Lovran, where the solemn opening and most of the program will take place, and visitors can take the opportunity to find ADJUST THE TEXT CONTENT YOURSELF. The Queen of the Adriatic, Opatija, will also be one of the festival stages, offering an elegant ambiance for musical performances; don't forget to check ADJUST THE TEXT CONTENT YOURSELF if you are planning a visit. Matulji will also contribute to the festival atmosphere, where the sounds of brass music will resonate, and for those who wish to extend their stay, there is ADJUST THE TEXT CONTENT YOURSELF.

A detailed program with exact times and performance locations will be available through local tourist boards and the organizer, Puhački orkestar Lovran. What is certain is that the audience will have the opportunity to hear a diverse repertoire, from classical works to modern arrangements, and witness the skill and enthusiasm of the musicians. An atmosphere filled with positive energy is expected, where music connects people and cultures, celebrating the universal language of notes. The organizers invite everyone to join and support these musical enthusiasts, whose effort and talent enrich the cultural scene of Kvarner.

Puhački orkestar Lovran, as the host, invests exceptional efforts in organizing this festival, continuing a tradition that has lasted for more than three decades. Their dedication to preserving and promoting wind music is crucial for the success and longevity of this event. The festival is not only an opportunity to present musical achievements but also for orchestras to socialize, exchange experiences, and create new friendships among musicians from different backgrounds. It is an event that celebrates community, amateurism in the best sense of the word, and the timeless beauty of music.

Sport fishermen facing a big test in the Lovran waters

Parallel to the musical notes that will fill the air, Lovran will this weekend also be the scene of a significant sporting event. Sportsko ribolovno društvo Zubatac Lovran is proud to host this year's National Championship in sport fishing for seniors in the discipline of boat angling with a rod. This prestigious competition will gather the cream of Croatian sport fishing, with the expected participation of about forty of the best fishermen from all over the country. For all of them, this is an opportunity to show their skills, knowledge, and sporting luck in the rich Lovran waters, which are known for their diversity of fish life.

Boat angling with a rod is an extremely demanding discipline that requires competitors not only to be skilled in handling equipment and knowledgeable in fishing techniques but also to have a deep understanding of the sea, sea currents, weather conditions, and fish habits. Success often depends on the correct choice of location, bait, and tactics, as well as on physical endurance and concentration during several hours of fishing. Sportsko ribolovno društvo Zubatac Lovran, as an experienced organizer of numerous fishing competitions, will certainly ensure top conditions for all participants, respecting the strict rules of sport fishing and the principles of marine ecosystem conservation. The catch is scored according to predefined criteria, and the most successful individuals and teams will be rewarded with accolades, as well as important points for ranking lists.

This National Championship is not only a sporting event but also a promotion of Lovran and the entire Kvarner region as an attractive destination for sport fishing. Clean sea, indented coast, and rich fish stocks make this part of the Adriatic ideal for all forms of recreational and sport fishing. Many visitors and tourists come to Kvarner precisely because of the opportunity to enjoy fishing, and if you are one of them, explore ADJUST THE TEXT CONTENT YOURSELF to find the ideal place for your stay. Events like this championship further increase the destination's visibility and attract enthusiasts of this sport.

For SRD Zubatac Lovran, hosting such a competition is a great recognition, but also a responsibility. The members of the society, known for their expertise and enthusiasm, actively work on promoting sport fishing, educating young fishermen, and caring for the sea and its resources. Their engagement is crucial for the development of sport fishing in the local community and beyond.

While musicians will compete in harmony and virtuosity on stages throughout the Opatija Riviera, from Mošćenička Draga, through Lovran and Opatija, to Matulji, sport fishermen will demonstrate their skills on the open sea, in silence and concentration, hoping for a rich catch. We wish them all much success – to the musicians, pleasant and inspired music-making that will touch the hearts of the audience, and to the fishermen, calm seas and "a good bite". May this weekend in Kvarner once again confirm the richness and diversity of the offer that this beautiful region provides to its residents and guests. Visitors planning to enjoy these events and explore the charms of Kvarner can search for ADJUST THE TEXT CONTENT YOURSELF to make their experience complete.

The Kvarner region, with its pearls like Lovran, Opatija, Mošćenička Draga, and Matulji, continuously invests in the development of cultural and sports tourism. Events such as the International Wind Orchestra Festival and the National Championship in sport fishing significantly contribute to this image, enriching the calendar of events and attracting different profiles of visitors. They provide an opportunity to discover local tradition, enjoy top performances and sports competitions, and get to know the natural beauties and hospitality of the hosts. If you are considering a visit, don't forget to check ADJUST THE TEXT CONTENT YOURSELF for the best accommodation in the heart of the events.