Entering the warmest period of the year traditionally marks the awakening of the city on the Rječina, which transforms from an urban bustle into a lively summer stage. July in Rijeka brings refreshment not only to its beautiful beaches but also through a rich and diverse spectrum of cultural, entertainment, and gastronomic events. City squares, historic fortresses, and hidden corners become stages for unforgettable experiences, offering residents and visitors a handful of reasons to enjoy summer evenings under the clear Kvarner sky. This year's program promises a month filled with music, laughter, art, and adrenaline, confirming Rijeka's status as a destination that skillfully combines its rich industrial heritage with a dynamic contemporary scene.

Summer at the Gradina 2025: A fusion of history and contemporary art

One of the most anticipated summer events, "Summer at the Gradina," this year once again transforms the Trsatski kaštel and the magnificent Nugentov park into the epicenter of cultural and entertainment happenings. Organized by the Rijeka Tourist Board, this program brings to life the ancient walls that have watched over the city for centuries. The Trsatski kaštel, a former Liburnian watchtower in a strategic position offering a spectacular view of the Riječki zaljev, provides a unique backdrop for events that merge the past and the present. The program for July has been carefully designed to satisfy the most diverse tastes. As early as this Sunday, July 6th, art lovers will have the opportunity to enjoy a unique open-air exhibition titled "Pul Kaštela," which will turn the area around the castle into a gallery under the stars. The musical part of the program brings real treats – throughout the month, some of the most popular performers in the region will take the stage. Rock sound enthusiasts will be delighted by the concerts of the cult band Majke, led by Goran Bare, while fans of a more modern pop-rock expression will enjoy the performance of the group Silente. A romantic atmosphere will be created by one of the most esteemed singer-songwriters, Sergej Četković, whose concert will surely attract a large audience. For those eager to dance and enjoy a club atmosphere, the "Milde Sorte party by DJ Zdrave" is a must, guaranteeing top-notch entertainment late into the night. To ensure the summer doesn't pass without laughter, popular comedians will perform the stand-up show "Taboos" on July 24th, bringing a dose of humor and questioning of social norms in a relaxed summer environment. Many visitors who come to experience the magic of these events also often look for accommodation in Rijeka to fully immerse themselves in the festival atmosphere.

Tobogan Festival: Imaginative and active summer holidays for children

Under the motto "active holidays for children," the Rijeka City Library and its partners, through the innovative platform of the Children's House, are organizing the beloved children's Tobogan Festival again this summer. Launched as part of the successful Rijeka 2020 – European Capital of Culture project, the festival has established itself as a central place for a creative and fulfilling summer break. The Children's House, located in the renovated Benčić art-quarter, becomes the main center for play, learning, and creation. The program is designed to stimulate children's curiosity and creativity through a series of workshops, from science and technology (STEM) to art and film. Children have the opportunity to participate in interactive games, watch animated films, listen to stories, and create their own works of art, all under the expert guidance of mentors. Special emphasis is placed on accessibility, so the majority of the festival's activities are completely free, thus providing children from all social strata with access to quality cultural and educational content.

Rijeka Summer Nights: Art takes over the streets and squares

The "Rijeka Summer Nights" event transforms the entire city into a spectacular open-air stage. During July, squares, parks, historic ports, and other attractive city locations become the scene of a rich and eclectic program that erases the boundaries between different art forms. This year, the program brings a fascinating blend of classical music and contemporary electronic rhythms, drama performances under the starry sky, literary evenings that bring together local and regional authors, and innovative visual installations. Visitors will be able to experience opera arias in unexpected places, attend theater performances that communicate with the urban environment, and surrender to musical rhythms that echo through the historic core. "Rijeka Summer Nights" celebrate creativity in its purest form, inviting the audience to explore the city in a completely new way and become part of a unique cultural dialogue.

Octane spectacle on the Korzo: Yiannimize Grand Tour has roared through Rijeka

On Tuesday, July 1st, Rijeka's Korzo turned into an exclusive open-air car showroom. The city was one of the stops of the prestigious Yiannimize Grand Tour 2025, an event that attracted a huge number of car enthusiasts and onlookers. As part of its seven-day tour that started in Rim and also includes Firenca, Venecija, Split, and Dubrovnik, a caravan of 32 luxury supercars stopped in the heart of Rijeka. From 3 PM, visitors had a unique opportunity to see and photograph up close some of the most desirable cars in the world, including models from brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, and Bugatti. The sound of powerful engines echoed through the city, and the gleam of polished bodies created a sight to remember. This event not only provided a visual and auditory spectacle but also confirmed Rijeka's status as a city capable of hosting world-renowned events, further promoting it on the international stage.

A musical treat with young German virtuosos

For the very end of the month, on Thursday, July 31st, a real musical treat is being prepared. At Trg 128. brigade Hrvatske vojske, starting at 8 PM, a free concert by the Happy Junior Band will be held. An impressive orchestra of almost ninety young accordionists from Germany will fill the Rijeka evening with the sounds of their instruments. This unique performance is an opportunity to enjoy the energy and talent of young musicians and a rich and diverse repertoire they will present. The concert is open to all citizens and visitors, offering a perfect way to bid farewell to July with quality music and a positive atmosphere.

Rijeka's Gastronomic Ports: A culinary journey through the heart of Kvarner

Summer in Rijeka is unimaginable without enjoying the flavors of the Mediterranean, and the "Rijeka's Gastronomic Ports" project invites you on an unforgettable culinary journey. Launched with the aim of branding and raising the quality of the gastronomic offer, this project connects the city's best restaurants and taverns into a unique story. The air in the port is filled with the smells of fresh seafood, native herbs, and spices, and the sound of the waves creates the perfect backdrop for exploring the richness offered by the Kvarner region. Catering establishments, holders of titles such as "Fishing Port," "Port of Local Foods," or "Romantic Port," guarantee the use of fresh, locally grown ingredients. The menus feature specialties made from freshly caught fish, Kvarner scampi, shellfish, and dishes prepared with premium olive oil. This is an opportunity to step into the largest Croatian port and sail into the world of authentic flavors that tell the story of the long history and tradition of this region.