The Rovinj waterfront tomorrow evening, on Sunday, August 3, 2025, will once again exude the spirit of tradition, the aromas of fresh fish, and the sounds of local music. Starting at 7 PM, the Riviera Square will transform into the epicenter of a unique eno-gastronomic and cultural event – the second edition this year of the popular Tunafest. This event, which already captured the hearts of numerous visitors and locals last year, represents the pinnacle of the summer offerings in Rovinj, combining the best of the sea with the city's rich fishing heritage.

Organized by the tireless Kuća o batani - Associazione Casa della batana Association, and in fruitful collaboration with experienced local fishermen from the Abyss Tuna Fishing team, Tunafest is not just another folk festival. It is a meticulously designed experience that celebrates the queen of the Adriatic – the tuna. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to witness the entire process that brings freshly caught tuna from the Rovinj aquatorium directly to their plate, offering an authentic experience that delves deep into the identity of this Istrian pearl.

The Heart of the Event: From the Sea to the Table with Masters of the Craft

The central moment of the evening will undoubtedly be a demonstration of skill and knowledge. The main star, a magnificent tuna, begins its journey in the hands of the famous chef Matija Medaković Meda. His art of filleting this powerful fish has grown into a true performance, where precision, strength, and respect for the ingredient combine into a breathtaking sight. Spectators will be able to watch up close as the huge fish is transformed into perfect steaks, ready for further preparation. It is this educational and visually attractive segment that makes Tunafest special, as it demystifies the process and brings it closer to the audience in a direct way.

After chef Medaković has done his part, the hardworking members of the "Kuća o batani" Association take the stage. Their skilled hands, guided by generations-old recipes, will turn the fresh tuna fillets into irresistible delicacies. The aromas that will spread from their stands, from classic grilled tuna steaks to more imaginative dishes, will entice visitors to indulge in gastronomic delights. Preparing the food in front of the audience further enhances the impression of freshness and authenticity, creating an atmosphere of trust and community. This is an opportunity to taste dishes that bear the seal of tradition, prepared with love and passion for the sea and fishing that has shaped Rovinj.

Guardians of Tradition: Ecomuseum "Kuća o Batani"

The event's organizer, the "Kuća o batani" Association, is much more than an ordinary association. It is the heart and soul of Rovinj's maritime culture. Their Ecomuseum, located in the very center of the city, is a living monument dedicated to the preservation of the batana, a traditional flat-bottomed wooden boat that for centuries was the foundation of fishing and daily life in Rovinj. Their dedicated work on preserving intangible heritage – from the Rovinj dialect (rovinježa), traditional bitinada songs, to the art of building and maintaining these unique vessels – has been recognized on a global level. The batana preservation project is included in the UNESCO Register of Best Practices for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which testifies to the exceptional importance of their work.

Through events like Tunafest, the Ecomuseum successfully conveys its mission to a wider audience. The event is not only an opportunity to enjoy food but also a platform for education on the importance of sustainable fishing, respect for the sea, and the preservation of local identity in times of globalization. Every bite of tuna prepared at this festival carries within it a story of history, the hard work of fishermen, and the dedication of a community that refuses to forget its roots. By visiting Tunafest, visitors directly support the work of this praiseworthy institution and become part of the story of preserving heritage for future generations.

Musical Backdrop and the Unique Atmosphere of the Riviera

The music group Le Cronache will ensure a complete experience and a well-rounded atmosphere. Their rhythms, imbued with local melodies and Mediterranean charm, will create the perfect soundscape for this fishing evening. Dancing by the sea, as the sun sets behind the silhouette of the old town and the church of St. Euphemia, is an experience to be remembered. The Riviera Square, with its open view of the sea and the island of St. Catherine, provides the ideal setting for such an event.

The combination of fantastic music, the embrace of the sea, and the intoxicating aromas from the grill creates a magic that attracts both tourists and locals. It is a moment when Rovinj shows its most sincere face – that of a city that lives in harmony with its history, yet is at the same time open and hospitable. The evenings of fishing culture thus become more than a festival; they are a celebration of life, community, and the unbreakable bond between man and the sea that is woven into every stone of this beautiful city. Therefore, do not miss the opportunity to be a part of this unique story tomorrow evening and experience Rovinj in the most authentic way possible.