Opatija, the pearl of Kvarner, this Saturday, July 19th, once again becomes the global capital of the most original race in the world. In its fifth summer edition, the Summer Balinjerada returns to the city streets, bringing a unique blend of carnival creativity, adrenaline-fueled racing, and a hot summer atmosphere. As the sun sets over Učka, Opatija's main thoroughfare will transform into a stage for a spectacle that unites generations and celebrates the authentic spirit of local tradition. This event is not just a race; it is an experience that attracts thousands of visitors every year, many of whom seek the ideal accommodation in Opatija precisely because of such events, to be at the center of the action.

What exactly is the Balinjerada? From a children's game to an Opatija brand

For those encountering this term for the first time, the Balinjerada is much more than a simple competition. It is a race on "karići" – imaginative, hand-made vehicles that move using ball bearings, or "balinjere," from which the event gets its name. What was once a children's game on the steep streets of coastal towns has grown into a trademark in Opatija, an event with a tradition spanning over four decades. The originator of the idea, Duško Jeličić Dule, also known as the "father of the Balinjerada," started this story out of pure enthusiasm, and over time it has become a symbol of Opatija's "dišpet" (a local term for defiance/spite) and creativity.

Competitors gather in several official categories that testify to the diversity and inventiveness of the participants:

• Monopatini: The simplest vehicles, often just a board with ball bearings, require exceptional skill and courage from the driver.


• Karići unjuli: Single-seaters, classic 'karići' that represent the core of the competition and the spirit of tradition.


• Karići dvojki: Double the fun and challenge, where coordination between the driver and co-driver plays a key role in achieving speed and stability.


• Merikanska vozila: The pinnacle of creativity! Here there are no rules except imagination. These are real small allegorical floats on ball bearings, often with a large "crew," which comment on current social events and delight the audience with their design and messages.

This event, which the Opatija Tourist Board has officially protected as an indigenous brand, is proof of how local heritage can be turned into a first-class tourist attraction that offers something completely different from the usual summer offer. If you are planning a visit, it is also worth exploring the offer of apartments and hotels in Opatija to enjoy the entire weekend without a care.

Saturday Night Fever, Opatija Style

This year's Summer Balinjerada program begins as early as 7 PM (19:00), when the track in the very center of the city opens to all curious onlookers. This is an ideal opportunity for visitors to feel a part of the adrenaline. As part of the "Taxi Balinjera", experienced drivers will take all interested parties down the track in specially prepared vehicles, providing them with a unique memory and a first-hand view of the race. It's a warm-up that best illustrates what it means to race down Opatija's asphalt on ball bearings.

The real excitement starts at 8:30 PM (20:30), when the official competition begins. The night-time ambiance gives the summer edition a special charm. The track will be equipped with professional lighting, a starting ramp with a traffic light, and numerous light and pyrotechnic effects, turning the race into a kind of Opatija version of a Formula 1 night race. The opening ceremony will be graced, as every year, by the founder of the event, Duško Jeličić Dule, and the Mayor of the City of Opatija, Mr. Fernando Kirigin. Their traditional descent down the track, with musical accompaniment by the Puhački orkestar Lovran (Lovran Wind Orchestra) and a performance by the Mažoretkinje opatijske rivijere (Majorettes of the Opatija Riviera), will mark the beginning of another unforgettable evening.

More than a race: Fun, glamour, and prizes for everyone

The Balinjerada would not be what it is without a rich accompanying program. The legendary trio of hosts, who have become synonymous with laughter and good fun in Kvarner, will once again ensure a top atmosphere: Mario Lipovšek Battifiaca, Irena Grdinić, and Dražen Turina Šajeta. Their witty comments and interaction with the audience and competitors are an integral part of this event's charm.

The music program is also promising. At the start, the popular band grupa Bonaca will warm up the atmosphere, while a big afterparty will be held at the finish line, near Slatina, with rhythms provided by DJ Blondie. A special moment of the evening will be the traditional election of Miss Balinjerada, a title that embodies not only beauty but also charm and a carnival spirit. The finale of the event will be further enriched by a colorful parade of carnival groups who will bring a touch of winter madness to the hot summer night with their costumes and choreographies.

The awards at the Balinjerada are a special story. Besides rewarding the fastest in their categories, awards also go to those who stand out in other ways. Prizes are awarded for the most likeable ("za lepo videt" - for being a pretty sight), for the youngest and oldest participant, and there is also one of the most prestigious and amusing awards – the one for the slowest competitor, which perfectly reflects the philosophy of this event where participation and good fun are more important than winning.

Important service information for visitors

Due to the Summer Balinjerada, traffic in the city center will be specially regulated. Opatija's main street, Ulica maršala Tita, will be closed to all traffic on the section from the intersection with Ulica V. C. Emina (at the turn for the port) and Radnička ulica all the way to Slatina (the area of the former Hotel Zagreb). The traffic ban comes into effect on Saturday, July 19th, at 4:00 PM (16:00) and lasts until Sunday, July 20th, at 5:00 AM (05:00) in the morning. Additionally, a parking ban will be in effect on the entire closed section of the road. All citizens and visitors are asked to adhere to the posted signs, use alternative routes, and park their vehicles in designated areas outside the restricted zone. Given the expected crowds, arriving in the city earlier is recommended, and for a complete, stress-free experience, securing accommodation in the center of Opatija is ideal.