Summer has arrived in Poreč in its full glory, turning the city into a dynamic open-air stage where the sounds of music, the scents of Istrian cuisine, and the laughter of visitors intertwine at every step. After the successful "Welcome Summer" concert last weekend at the Poreč Marina officially marked the beginning of the beloved summer event, the Poreč Summer continues with a rich and diverse program that will fill the city's streets, squares, and parks this week. Ahead of us are days filled with sweet temptations, historical journeys, authentic flavors, and dance rhythms, offering a plethora of content for all generations and tastes.

Just last night, on Monday, June 23, Poreč's Olga Ban Park was transformed into a mystical forest. The first edition of the "Mystic Forest" program this year took visitors to another dimension, combining ambient scenography, a carefully selected musical background, and light installations that brought the treetops to life. This audio-visual experience, designed as an evening oasis for relaxation, offered a unique experience that awakened all the senses and showed how nature and art can create magic under the starry sky.

Evening Sounds on Liberty Square

The atmosphere of summer evenings continues tonight, on Tuesday, June 24, when the center of events moves to the main city square. The "Music on the Square" program, starting at 9 PM, brings performances by local musicians who will fill Liberty Square with their music. In a relaxed environment, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy live music that will serve as the perfect soundtrack for an evening stroll through the stone streets, sipping a drink on one of the many terraces, or simply surrendering to the rhythm of a city that lives life to the fullest.

Thursday in the Sign of Istria: Flavors and Tradition

Thursday, June 26, is reserved for a deeper dive into the heart of Istrian tradition. From 9 AM until 8 PM, Liberty Square will become a colorful open-air market, hosting the traditional "Fair of Istrian Indigenous Products". This event is an excellent opportunity for all gourmands and lovers of local delicacies to get to know the fruits of the Istrian land firsthand. The stalls will feature top-quality olive oils, award-winning wines of local varieties, homemade honey and bee products, various types of cheeses, fruit and vegetable preserves, lavender products, natural cosmetics, and unique handicrafts. The fair is not just a place for shopping, but also an opportunity to talk with the producers, the people who preserve the indigenous heritage with love and passion, and to take home a piece of authentic Istria.

History Revived: A Free Walk with "La mula de Parenzo"

On the same day, Thursday at 7 PM, a real treat is being prepared for all those eager for culture and history. The first interpretive walk of the year, inspired by the legendary song "La mula de Parenzo," considered the city's unofficial anthem, will take place. This unique tour, led by professional actors, is not an ordinary city tour, but a journey through time. The walk begins at the North Tower and leads participants through the most picturesque parts of the old town – across Marafor Square, along the city's waterfront, to Fisherman's Square, and finally to the "La mula de Parenzo" Center. During the walk, participants will meet costumed characters from the past – from an old fisherman and a fish seller to the famous writer Ernest Hemingway, who will tell them stories about the rich fishing tradition and life in Poreč at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. The entire experience is accompanied by the sounds of an accordion, and participants will have the opportunity to learn and sing the verses of the famous song. The program is completely free, but due to high interest, reservations are required. You can secure your spot by calling 091 432 3745, sending an email to lamuladeparenzo@muzejporec.hr, or in person at the Visitor Center.

The Highlight of the Week: Sweet Magic at the "Gelato Park – World of Wonders" Festival

The end of the week brings the sweetest event of the summer! From Friday, June 27, to Sunday, June 29, Olga Ban Park will once again transform into "Gelato Park – World of Wonders," the second edition of the ice cream festival that won the hearts of thousands of visitors last year. This year, the festival promises an even richer program, more flavors, and unforgettable fun for the whole family. The park will become the epicenter of gelato art, bringing together some of Croatia's best gelato producers who will present their creative and classic flavors. Alongside them, Poreč's caterers will offer imaginative desserts with ice cream and refreshing drinks, and each exhibitor will have at least one product at a special, promotional festival price.

But "Gelato Park" is not just about ice cream. It is a world of wonders with a plethora of content for the youngest. Over three days, visitors can expect a colorful entertainment program: interactive theater shows, juggling and creative workshops where children can learn new skills, popular face painting, performances by magicians that will leave everyone breathless, and animators on stilts who will bring an extra dose of joy. A special attraction is the interactive NeuroStem BrainFreeze Expo, which explores the science behind brain freeze in a fun way. Dance rhythms will be maintained by Poreč's dance associations with their energetic performances. Each evening also brings a live music program: on Friday, the talented Zoe Šestan with a children's rock band from Poreč will take the stage, Saturday is reserved for Gordan Gregurović & The Band, and on Sunday, the festival will be closed by the dynamic Duo Discover. For lasting memories, there is also the popular Pablo photo bus, and the youngest will also be delighted by the offer of colorful balloons. Due to the festival, from 5:30 PM to 12:30 AM, some streets in the city center will be closed to traffic to ensure smooth and safe fun for everyone. The festival magic will extend beyond the park – the city's pastry shops Il gelato di Salvatore, Gelateria Venti 22, and Ice Box will each offer one special ice cream flavor at a promotional price every day, inviting everyone to explore the city's sweet offerings. The Poreč Tourist Board proudly invites all citizens and dear guests to join this week full of events and enjoy the unique summer atmosphere that beautiful Poreč has to offer.