The beginning of May on the island of Lošinj brings a real explosion of events, combining rich history with modern spectacles, all under the banner of a major anniversary – 140 years of organized tourism. Visitors who decide to spend the extended May Day weekend on this Kvarner pearl will have the opportunity to participate in a series of attractive events celebrating the long tradition of hospitality and the unique cultural heritage of the island.

Immediately following the traditional celebration of Labour Day on the main square in Mali Lošinj, a weekend filled with historical reminiscences and gastronomic feats ensues. A significant number of guests are expected, around six thousand according to the estimates of the Mali Lošinj Tourist Board, who will be able to enjoy a unique blend of past and present.

Historical echoes: 150 years of music and an imperial visit

Friday, May 2, 2025, will be a day dedicated to an important musical jubilee and remembrance of the imperial era. Namely, exactly a century and a half ago, back in 1875, the members of the musical ensemble we know today as the Puhački orkestar „Josip Kašman“ performed publicly for the first time. Their performance was arranged in honour of the arrival of the Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I to the island of Lošinj. This event was not just a ceremonial formality; it marked the beginning of organized musical life and the long tradition of wind music that continues uninterrupted on the island to this day. Records mention that on May 13, 1875, the Emperor visited Mali Lošinj on the occasion of the launching of a ship named after his wife, Empress Elisabeth, and on that occasion, he also visited the Nautical School of Lošinj.

In commemoration of that historical moment and the 150 years of continuous activity of the orchestra, on Friday, May 2, starting at 11 AM in the Mali Lošinj harbour, a meticulously prepared stage reenactment of the arrival of Emperor Franz Joseph will take place. After the "Emperor" docks and is welcomed, he will deliver a fitting ceremonial speech from the terrace of the Museum of Apoxyomenos, one of the most recognizable cultural institutions in Mali Lošinj. Visitors will have the opportunity to mingle with the "Emperor" and his entourage before he takes a ride through the town center in a horse-drawn carriage, accompanied by a solemn procession of the Puhački orkestar „Josip Kašman“. The procession will conclude with a visit to the Parish Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, adding another dimension to this revival of history.

The celebration of this significant jubilee for the orchestra will continue later in the month. On May 13, 2025, the promotion of a commemorative monograph titled "150 years of the Puhački orkestar Josip Kašman" is announced. The presentation of the book, which details the rich history and activities of the orchestra, will be held at the Vladimir Nazor cinema in Mali Lošinj, offering insight into a century and a half of musical tradition that has shaped the cultural identity of the island.

A sweet record for 140 years of tourism: Giant Lošinj Krokant

Just a day later, on Saturday, May 3, 2025, the celebration of 140 years of tourism on Lošinj will reach its peak with a unique and ambitious undertaking. On the main town square in Mali Lošinj, an attempt to break the Guinness World Record will take place – creating the largest Lošinj Krokant ever seen!

Lošinj Krokant is not just an ordinary dessert; it is deeply rooted in the island's maritime tradition. Made from simple but once precious ingredients – sugar and almonds – this sweet specialty symbolizes wealth, prosperity, and happiness. It was traditionally prepared in wealthier captains' families for the most important life events such as weddings and christenings, and its creation, which requires special skill and strength, was passed down through generations. Custom dictates that the krokant, often made in multiple tiers (sometimes up to seven), is ceremoniously broken with a saber at the height of the celebration for the luck of all present.

The revival of this tradition and elevating it to a record-breaking level has been entrusted to the renowned Lošinj pastry chef Petar Goleš from the Moby Dick pastry shops, whose family has preserved and nurtured the island's gastronomic heritage for decades, offering krokant also as a recognizable souvenir under the brand 'Crocantessa'. The creation of the monumental krokant will begin as early as 10 AM on Saturday, following several days of detailed preparations. Before the public eye, on the Mali Lošinj square, Goleš and his team will build the sweet sculpture, which is intended to have a symbolic 14 tiers – one for each decade of tourism on Lošinj.

The goal is to exceed a height of 2.5 meters, which is the requirement for setting a new world record in the category of the largest krokant. The all-day creation process will be an attraction in itself, with the culmination expected in the evening. From 7 PM to 8 PM, the official measurement of the krokant's height by a judge from the Guinness World Records organization is scheduled; the judge will be present to verify the potential record. During this time, visitors will be able to admire the imposing creation and take photos with it.

Exactly at 8 PM, the highlight of the evening will follow – the traditional ceremony of breaking the giant krokant with a saber. This spectacular act will mark the beginning of a large celebration on the square, bringing together locals and their guests in celebration of the island's history, tradition, and tourism success. To complete the atmosphere, immediately after the krokant breaking ceremony, the legendary Croatian rock band Parni Valjak will take the stage. Their free concert, part of a tour celebrating their 50th anniversary, will surely further lift the spirits and ensure an unforgettable evening for everyone present at the Trg RH in Mali Lošinj.

The director of the Mali Lošinj Tourist Board, Dalibor Cvitković, emphasized the significance of this event: "There is no better way to celebrate 140 years of tourism than by setting a world record with one of the most important symbols of our rich Lošinj past – the Lošinj Krokant. This event will connect one of the most beautiful traditions of Lošinj captains, which symbolizes wealth and prosperity, with new heights, literally and symbolically." Cvitković extended an invitation to all visitors who will be staying on the island of vitality to join this historic moment and celebration on the Mali Lošinj town square.

These events are just a part of the rich program with which Lošinj is celebrating 140 years throughout 2025, marking the moment when the arrival of Dr. Conrad Clar with his son Walter for recovery, prompted by the favourable climate studied by Professor Ambroz Haračić, marked the beginning of Lošinj's development as a tourist destination and climatic health resort, a status officially confirmed in 1892.