The Rijeka Carnival, known as the "fifth season," brings a rich program full of diverse events that will satisfy all generations this year as well. From traditional parades and the election of carnival rulers to creative workshops and musical performances, Rijeka will be the center of masquerade fun during February and March.

Election of the Prince and Princess of the Rijeka Carnival – February 7, 2025.

On Friday, February 7, 2025, starting at 5 PM, the election for the Prince and Princess of the Rijeka Carnival will take place on the fourth floor of the Tower Center Rijeka. These young rulers will lead the Children's Carnival Parade, scheduled for February 15. A professional jury, including the Queen of the Rijeka Carnival, Meštar Sandi, and Mauro Staraj, will evaluate the performances of children who will present themselves through dance, song, and other talents. Everyone is invited to support the little masqueraders and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere.

Carnival Riviera – February 8, 2025.

The next day, February 8, starting at 5 PM, the Exportdrvo area in Rijeka will become the center of carnival fun. For the first time, a competition of carnival groups in various games called "Carnival Riviera" will be held. Groups such as "105 pa opet," "Draške maškare," "Pikići," "Siti i pijani," and "Viva Ri" will participate. After the games, concerts by Šajeta at 7 PM and Gustaf at 9 PM will follow, guaranteeing great fun and a dance evening.

Masquerade Ričina – February 9, 2025.

On Sunday, February 9, from 10 AM to 4 PM, the Kont in Rijeka becomes the entrance to the "Ričina Nature Park." Visitors will be able to participate in fun carnival games, creative workshops, and trips to Žaklja and Matešić's mill. The Kont Mountain Lodge will be the gathering place for all nature and carnival lovers.

Masquerade Workshops – February 6 and 13, 2025.

For the youngest, masquerade workshops are organized on February 6 and 13 in the premises of the Old School Hostel at Brig 45. The program starts at 6 PM, and registration is mandatory. Children will have the opportunity to make masks, learn about carnival traditions, and socialize with Karmelino the clown, Meštar, and the Carnival Queen.

Carnival Costume Exhibition – February 8 to March 5, 2025.

From February 8 to March 5, an exhibition of carnival costumes will be set up in the Tower Center Rijeka. Visitors will be able to view fantastic costumes and masks that have marked past carnival years.

Children's Carnival Parade – February 15, 2025.

The highlight for the youngest participants will be the Children's Carnival Parade, which will take place on February 15 in the city center starting at 1 PM. The youngest participants will show their creativity and imagination through diverse costumes and choreographies.

International Carnival Parade – March 2, 2025.

The main event of the Rijeka Carnival, the International Carnival Parade, is scheduled for March 2, starting at 12 PM. This parade gathers numerous domestic and foreign carnival groups that will march through Rijeka's Korzo, presenting their impressive masks, costumes, and allegorical floats.

History of the Rijeka Carnival

The Rijeka Carnival has a long tradition dating back more than a hundred years. Organized parades and masked balls were held as early as the beginning of the 20th century, attracting aristocracy from all over Europe. After a break, in 1982, the carnival was revived when three groups – "Lako ćemo," "Pehinarski feštari," and "Halubajski zvončari" – marched through the Korzo, marking the beginning of the modern era of the Rijeka Carnival. Today, it is the largest carnival in Croatia, known for its diversity and rich program.

For more information about the program and events, visit the official website of the Rijeka Carnival.