Nin šokol, a unique gastronomic delicacy, will once again be in the spotlight in the historic city of Nin. The traditional "Šokol Feast" or Nin Šokolijada, as it is popularly known, will this year, on July 20, 2025, be held in full splendor, celebrating the skill of making this indigenous product. This event is not only a gastronomic event but also a guardian of intangible cultural heritage, promoting the preservation of skills passed down through generations.

Šokol, a meat product specific to the Nin area, is made by carefully processing pork neck, salt, pepper, and specific spices, with the indispensable role of the Nin bora wind. The process of its production begins in January, when meat is distributed to competitors, the guardians of this heritage. For months, šokol goes through the processes of salting, marinating, and drying, so that in July, at the Šokolijada itself, it will be ready for evaluation and enjoyment.

Over the years, Nin Šokolijada has grown into one of the most significant gastro-ethno-fair events in Zadar County. Its primary goal is to save and preserve the traditional way of preparing šokol, which is deeply rooted in the identity of Nin and its surroundings. Through this event, visitors are given the opportunity to get acquainted with the rich gastronomic and cultural heritage of the region.

This year's feast will begin with an eco-product fair, which will gather numerous exhibitors on Višeslav's Square in Nin, starting at 7:00 PM. Visitors will have the opportunity to taste and buy various local products, including, of course, šokol. The fair provides an excellent opportunity to promote small family farms and local producers, contributing to the development of rural tourism and the preservation of indigenous products.

The evening program will be filled with cultural and entertainment content. Visitors will enjoy performances by cultural and artistic societies (KUDs) and klapa groups from Zadar County, who will perform traditional songs and dances, further enriching the authentic atmosphere of the event. These performances highlight the richness of the region's folklore heritage and provide insight into the diversity of local culture.

At 9:00 PM, on the summer stage, the highlight of the evening follows – **the announcement of the best šokolar and šokolarica of 2025**. This moment always attracts great attention, as the winners represent the best guardians of Nin's tradition and the skill of making šokol. Competitors are evaluated based on the quality, taste, and texture of their šokol, and an expert jury carefully evaluates each sample.

The music program will continue from 11:00 PM on Višeslav's Square, providing entertainment until late evening hours. The atmosphere will be relaxed and celebratory, ideal for enjoying gastronomic delicacies and good music. Nin Šokolijada thus becomes not only an event for gourmets but also a full-day celebration of tradition, culture, and community.

Importance of institutional support

This year's Šokolijada will be held under the **high patronage of the President of the Republic of Croatia Zoran Milanović**. This support indicates the national significance of the event and its importance in preserving Croatian cultural heritage. In addition to the presidential patronage, the event is also supported by key ministries of the Republic of Croatia:

• **Ministry of Tourism and Sport:** Recognizes the potential of Šokolijada as a tourist attraction that contributes to the development of selective forms of tourism and the promotion of Croatia as a gastronomic destination.


• **Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries:** Supports the event due to its role in preserving traditional agricultural production and promoting indigenous products, which is crucial for the sustainable development of rural areas.


• **Ministry of Culture and Media:** Emphasizes the importance of Šokolijada as a guardian of intangible cultural heritage and its role in preserving traditional crafts and skills.

In addition to state institutions, significant support is also provided by **Zadar County** and the **Zadar County Tourist Board**. Their involvement ensures logistical and financial support, which is crucial for the successful realization of such a large event. These institutions recognize Šokolijada as an important element in promoting Zadar County as a destination rich in cultural and gastronomic content.

The organizer of the event is the **Tourist Board of the City of Nin**, which invests significant efforts in the promotion and organization of this event. Their dedication to preserving Nin's heritage is visible in every segment of Šokolijada, from the distribution of meat to competitors to the final ceremony. In cooperation with local communities and institutions, the Tourist Board of the City of Nin successfully maintains this unique event which attracts an increasing number of visitors every year.

The final evening, which this year takes place on Sunday, July 20, is the culmination of several months of work and preparations. It is a day when the efforts and skills of šokol masters are celebrated, but also a day when visitors are given a unique opportunity to experience authentic Nin tradition. Through a combination of gastronomy, culture, and entertainment, Nin Šokolijada remains an indispensable event on the calendar of summer happenings in Croatia.

Tradition of making Nin šokol

Nin šokol is not just a food product; it is a symbol of identity, family stories, and centuries-old tradition. Its production is deeply rooted in the history of Nin, a former royal city. The recipe is passed down from generation to generation, often kept within families as a precious heritage. Key is the specific preparation and drying process that relies on the **unique microclimate of the Nin area**, characterized by the bora wind and salt from nearby salt pans.

Pork neck, used for making šokol, is carefully selected. After the meat is prepared, it is thoroughly salted, often with sea salt from Nin's salt pans, which gives it a special taste. This is followed by a marinating phase in a mixture of spices, which may include pepper, garlic, and sometimes red wine, depending on the family recipe. After marinating, the šokol is air-dried, where the bora wind plays a key role in the drying and ripening process. This natural process, combined with careful nurturing, results in the unique taste and texture of Nin šokol.

In addition to being an exceptional gastronomic product, šokol is also an important part of social life in Nin. The production process is often a family event, bringing together family members and friends, strengthening ties within the community. Through Šokolijada, this tradition is not only maintained but also passed on to younger generations, ensuring its existence in the future.

Nin as a tourist destination

Nin, known as the oldest Croatian royal city, offers much more than gastronomic delights. Rich history, impressive architecture, and natural beauties make it an attractive tourist destination. Visitors can explore the Church of St. Cross, which is known as the smallest cathedral in the world, and the remains of the Roman forum. Nin's salt pans, which have played an important role in the city's economy for centuries, are today open to visitors, offering insight into the traditional way of salt production.

In addition to historical sights, Nin is known for its sandy beaches, ideal for family vacations. The long sandy beach Kraljičina plaža (Queen's Beach), with its medicinal mud, attracts visitors seeking relaxation and the benefits of nature. The proximity of Paklenica National Park and Vransko Jezero Nature Park allows nature lovers to explore diverse landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities.

Nin Šokolijada thus perfectly fits into the wider tourist offer of Nin, attracting visitors who seek authentic experiences and want to delve deeper into local culture. Through such events, Nin positions itself as a destination that offers a combination of history, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauties, providing an unforgettable experience for all visitors.