The town of Ogulin, located in the heart of Croatia, at the crossroads of Lika and Gorski Kotar, is celebrating an exceptional jubilee this year – 525 years of existence. This significant anniversary is celebrated alongside the Day of the Town and the traditional feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, and for this occasion, a multi-day, lavish program has been prepared that combines tradition, culture, sports, and entertainment. The entire town will become an open-air stage, offering a wealth of content for all generations, from the youngest to the oldest citizens and their guests. In the days that follow, Ogulin will breathe with full lungs, proudly showcasing its historical heritage and modern spirit.
An Overture to a Grand Celebration
The festive program begins with cultural and sporting events that serve as a perfect overture to the central part of the celebration. Art lovers will have the opportunity to enjoy an exhibition by the "Frankopan" Art Society, which will present the works of local artists and showcase the richness of the creative expression of the Ogulin region. The evening will be reserved for gentler tones with poetry organized by the Ogulin Women's Association, while sporting events will provide a dose of adrenaline and competitive spirit. The already traditional Ogulin Trail will attract runners eager for an adventure through the beautiful landscapes surrounding the town. Lake Sabljaci, known as the "Ogulin Sea," will host an exciting rowing regatta that will bring together numerous teams. Tennis and table tennis enthusiasts will not be left out, as tournaments are scheduled, while fishermen will be able to test their skills in organized competitions. This diversity of events ensures that everyone can find something for themselves and actively participate in the celebration.
Ceremony and Music in the Heart of the Town
The central part of the celebration is scheduled for Friday, September 12. The morning hours will be dedicated to a formal session of the Town Council of the Town of Ogulin, an opportunity to review achievements in the past period and to announce future plans for the town's development. It is a moment when town leaders, distinguished guests, and deserving citizens gather to celebrate this important day together. The evening program brings a real musical treat – a concert by the Ogulin Volunteer Fire Department Wind Orchestra. This orchestra, with a long and rich tradition, is one of the pillars of the town's cultural life. A special touch to this concert will be given by guests from Makarska, which strengthens the friendly ties between the two towns and offers the audience a unique musical experience.
The Climax of the Celebration: A Weekend to Remember
The upcoming weekend, September 13 and 14, brings the climax of the celebration, and the streets and squares of Ogulin will turn into a lively hub of events. Saturday, September 13, will be a day dedicated to flavors, tradition, and history. King Tomislav Park will become the epicenter of the event "Local in the Homeland of Fairy Tales," organized with much effort and love by the Ogulin Women's Association. Visitors will be able to taste and buy indigenous products from local family farms, and a special guest will be the famous Croatian chef Tomislav Špiček, who will surely delight everyone present with his culinary masterpieces. On the same day, the steps of history will echo through the town. The Frankopan Guard of Ogulin, a historical unit that preserves the memory of the town's founders, will organize a ceremonial parade of historical units, providing insight into the rich military past of this region. For all visitors, the "Klek" Ogulin Hunting Society will prepare a real feast – about 1300 free portions of hunter's or Székely goulash will be distributed, a gesture that testifies to hospitality and community. If you are looking for accommodation in Ogulin, now is the right time to book it.
The evening is reserved for a major music spectacle in the city parking lot. The atmosphere will be warmed up from 8 PM by the opening act D.K & The First Timers, and at 9 PM, one of the biggest stars of the Croatian music scene – Maja Šuput with the group Enjoy – will take the stage. Known for her energy and stage performance, Maja Šuput guarantees an evening filled with dance, song, and unforgettable fun for all generations. Admission to the concert is free, as are all other events, thanks to the patronage of the Town of Ogulin.
A Day Dedicated to History and Faith
Sunday, September 14, will have a solemn and dignified character. At 5 PM, the ceremonial unveiling of the restored monument to King Tomislav, one of the symbols of the town, will take place. This act has special importance as it occurs in the year marking the 1100th anniversary of the coronation of the first Croatian king, with which Ogulin joins the national celebration of this great jubilee. Following that, at 6 PM, a solemn procession and a concelebrated Holy Mass will be held in the parish church of the Holy Cross. The Mass will be led by Bishop Msgr. Marko Medo, which gives this religious ceremony a special solemnity. After the Mass, in King Tomislav Park, a suitable get-together will be organized for all parishioners and citizens, as an opportunity for community and sharing impressions in a relaxed atmosphere.
Final Tones of Celebration and a Look to the Future
The celebration continues into the following week. On Monday, September 15, lovers of choral singing will be able to enjoy a concert by the Croatian Choral Society "Klek," which has been nurturing the rich tradition of singing in Ogulin for decades. As a look towards the future, the celebration will be rounded off by a STEM week for children and youth. Organized by the Society of Technical Culture Pedagogues Ogulin, a series of workshops will be held at the Center for Technical Culture with the aim of popularizing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among young people. In this way, the town shows that while celebrating its glorious past, it is also investing in the knowledge and skills of new generations. All programs as part of the Day of the Town Ogulin celebration are fully funded by the Town of Ogulin and are free for all visitors, which is an invitation for everyone to join this grand celebration.
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Creation time: 11 September, 2025