This week, Poreč is transformed into the epicenter of cultural, musical, and eno-gastronomic events, offering a rich and dynamic program that intertwines tradition with modern expressions. The city becomes an open-air stage, attracting rivers of visitors and tourists eager to experience the unique atmosphere of Istria. The synergy of top-tier art and a relaxed summer ambiance makes this week one of the highlights of the season, and the diversity of events guarantees that everyone will find something for themselves, turning a stay in Poreč into an unforgettable experience.

Urban Rhythms and Magical Walks

Since July 4th, the city's waterfront has become a pulsating stage for urban dance. Until July 11th, visitors can enjoy daily performances by European break-dance champions. These street dance virtuosos, acrobats, and freestyle performers bring incredible energy and rhythm to the very heart of the city. Their energetic performances, which combine demanding acrobatics with original dance moves, have become a real attraction and a perfect introduction to the evening events that follow. The dynamics of their performances create an interactive experience, where the audience spontaneously gathers and becomes part of the spectacle.

In contrast to the urban bustle of the waterfront, Olga Ban Park tonight, July 7th, becomes a sanctuary of magic and art. As evening falls, the park transforms into "Mystic Forest," an innovative and interactive light installation. It is a unique evening experience that combines ambient lighting, suggestive music, and stage effects to create a multisensory promenade. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a fairytale scene where the boundaries between nature and artistic intervention are blurred, and the play of light and shadow turns the familiar park into a completely new, mystical environment. This program, which combines light installations, music, and the natural environment into a suggestive walk through light and sound, provides an experience for all senses and represents one of the most special events this summer in Poreč.

From the World's Funk Elite to Local Musical Forces

This week's music program brings a true spectacle for all tastes. Tomorrow, July 8th, Poreč will have the honor of hosting a musical icon for the first time in Croatia – Philip Lassiter. The eleven-time Grammy Award winner, esteemed producer, arranger, and trumpeter, known for his work with the legendary Prince as the leader of his backing brass section New Power Generation, will perform in the exclusive ambiance of the Villa Club. Lassiter's impressive career includes collaborations with music giants such as Kirk Franklin, Ariana Grande, Timbaland, and Roberta Flack. His musical style is an authentic fusion of funk, soul, jazz, and gospel, and the audience can expect a high-voltage performance filled with virtuoso solos and infectious rhythms. This concert represents a rare opportunity to experience world-class music production in the heart of Istria.

Simultaneously, as a counterweight to the world star, Freedom Square (Trg slobode) on the same day becomes a stage for local musical hopes as part of the "Music on the Square" program. This event provides a platform for local bands to showcase their talent and contribute to the city's vibrant music scene, creating a perfect balance between global and local artistic currents. It is an opportunity to discover new sounds and support local creativity, through which Poreč as a city of culture shows its breadth and openness.

Jazz Vibes, Sunsets, and Authentic Flavors of Istria

The middle of the week is reserved for more refined and intimate experiences. On Wednesday, July 9th, visitors will be able to choose between two unique events. The newly renovated Poreč marina will host the "Sunset Vibes" program, where with the relaxing lounge music of the duo Artfonix and refreshing cocktails, one can enjoy the spectacular view of the sunset. This event is designed as the perfect backdrop for relaxation and socializing in the elegant ambiance of the marina.

For jazz lovers, the same day brings a real musical treat as part of the jubilee, 30th edition of the "Jazz in Lapidarium" festival. In the authentic and historic setting of the Homeland Museum of the Poreč Region, the outstanding quartet Hojsak & Novosel ft. Stavridis & Tassios will perform. This ensemble, consisting of Tihomir Hojsak on double bass, Filip Novosel on tamburica, Thanos Stavridis on accordion, and Christos Tassios on percussion, is known for its innovative fusion of traditional music with jazz improvisation, creating a unique musical expression that pushes the boundaries of genres.

A day later, on July 10th, Freedom Square (Trg Slobode) transforms into a vibrant market of Istrian tastes and smells. An all-day exhibition of authentic Istrian products, which lasts from 9 am to 8 pm, will bring together the best local producers. Visitors will have the opportunity to taste and buy top-quality Istrian wines like Malvasia and Teran, award-winning olive oils, local cheeses, prosciutto, honey products, truffle delicacies, and natural cosmetics based on lavender and immortelle. The fair is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the rich gastronomic heritage of the peninsula and to have direct contact with the producers who preserve tradition.

Classics in the Euphrasiana and a Festival Premiere of Cocktails

The week full of events will culminate with a musical and festival exclusive. On Friday, July 11th, classical music lovers will have a rare opportunity to attend a piano recital by Lovro Pogorelić. As part of the 64th edition of the renowned festival "Concerts in the Euphrasiana," this internationally acclaimed pianist will perform in the sacred and acoustically impressive space of the Euphrasian Basilica, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Tickets for this musical event of the season are available through the website of the Poreč Public Open University and at the entrance before the concert itself.

For the very end of the week, on July 11th and 12th, an exciting premiere has been announced – the first Poreč Cocktail Festival, known as POCO. Olga Ban Park will become the meeting place for the best regional bartenders and mixologists. They will present their original, signature cocktails, as well as reinterpretations of classics with a Mediterranean touch. The festival is conceived as an all-day and all-evening gathering under the open sky, filled with a music program, a relaxed atmosphere, and a celebration of drinking culture. POCO brings a touch of world metropolises and promises to become a new unmissable spot for summer fun, providing the perfect end to a week in which Poreč truly offers diverse content for all generations.