In the heart of Šokadija, in the picturesque Babina Greda, on June 8, 2025, the 44th cultural and economic event "White Horses" was held, an event that uniquely celebrates the unbreakable bond between man and horse, deeply woven into the identity of Slavonia. This traditional event, which attracts an increasing number of visitors and participants year after year, has once again confirmed its status as one of the most important guardians of heritage in eastern Croatia. Special weight was given to this year's edition by the arrival of the President of the Republic, Zoran Milanović, who graced the opening ceremony with his presence and a suitable address.

The clatter of hooves, song, and laughter echoed through the streets of Babina Greda, creating a picture of a revived past. The event, according to established custom, began with a magnificent procession of festively decorated wedding carriages. The brilliant whiteness of the Lipizzaner horses, proudly trotting in pairs, harnessed to richly decorated wagons, provided a breathtaking sight. In the wagons, dressed in lavish folk costumes, sat married women and men, preserving from oblivion the appearance and customs of old Slavonian weddings. This mobile exhibition of tradition and beauty testifies to the deep respect that the people of Babina Greda have for the heritage of their ancestors and the role the horse played in all important moments of life.

The President's Words as an Incentive for the Future

Opening the event, President Zoran Milanović sent a strong message to the assembled crowd, emphasizing the importance of preserving local customs as the foundation of national identity. "Babina Greda maintains tradition without pomp, as a folk custom, and let it remain so. Preserve your customs and identity. That is, in fact, us and what makes us who we are," said the President, praising the authenticity and immediacy with which tradition is approached in this region. In his speech, he drew a parallel with his childhood in Sinj, evoking memories of horses that were then an indispensable part of everyday life. He recalled how they were strong working horses, not as noble and for show as today's Lipizzaners, but hardworking animals that shared the fate of people and helped them in their struggle for survival. This comparison between the former working horses and today's parade horses, both in Sinj and in Babina Greda, clearly illustrates the transformation of rural life, but also confirms that the love for these noble animals has remained unchanged. Along with President Milanović, the event was also attended by the President's adviser for human rights and civil society, Melita Mulić.

Competition in Old Crafts and Skills

After the ceremonial procession, the center of events moved to the Babina Greda hippodrome, where the most attractive part of the event followed – a competition in skills and daily tasks that were once crucial for life in the countryside. The audience watched with great interest the competition in disciplines such as assembling wooden wagons, a skill that required speed, strength, and precision, and harnessing horses, where the coordination and speed of the team were judged. Particularly attractive were the 'vožnja na paliji' (driving on a pole yoke), a specific way of driving a team that tests the driver's skill, and 'tekličko jahanje' (courier riding), a discipline that simulates former messengers on horseback and requires exceptional skill and speed from the rider. These competitions are not just mere entertainment, but a practical demonstration of knowledge and skills passed down from generation to generation, thus preserving a valuable part of intangible cultural heritage.

Guardians of Tradition with a Vision for the Future

The main organizer and soul of this event is the Horse Breeding Association Babina Greda, one of the oldest associations of its kind in Croatia. Founded way back in 1942, in the midst of turbulent times, this association has been working tirelessly for 83 years to achieve its primary goal – the preservation and promotion of Lipizzaner breeding. Their mission goes far beyond organizing an event; it is deeply rooted in the desire to preserve the authentic way of life, to instill in younger generations a love for horses and tradition, and to show how families once supported themselves through hard work, with the irreplaceable help of these noble animals. The two-day nature of the event, which includes a Lipizzaner Horse Fair and a show competition in two-horse carriage driving held the day before, confirms the seriousness and dedication with which the association approaches its work. Along with the president of the association, Franjo Gregorović, the crowd was also greeted by the Mayor of the Municipality of Babina Greda Josip Krnić, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Marinko Beljo, as an envoy of the Prime Minister, and Member of Parliament Petar Šimić, as an envoy of the Speaker of the Croatian Parliament.

The Lipizzaner – a Living Monument of Slavonian History

The story of the "White Horses" event is also the story of the Lipizzaner, a breed that has become a symbol of Slavonia. The breeding of Lipizzaners in this area has a long and rich history, dating back centuries, to the time of the Military Frontier. This tradition, inscribed in the Register of Cultural Goods of the Republic of Croatia, represents an intangible asset of national importance. The Lipizzaner was not just a working animal; it was a family member, a status symbol, and the pride of every host. Their grace and beauty adorned weddings, holiday processions, and other festivities. Today's breeders, gathered in associations like the one in Babina Greda, continue where their ancestors left off, ensuring that the genetic potential and purity of this breed are preserved for the future. Anyone who decides to visit this region and look for accommodation in Babina Greda can witness this unique synergy of man and nature. The "White Horses" event, first held in 1981, grew out of this love and became a platform for promoting not only horse breeding but also the entire traditional culture, gastronomy, and hospitality for which this part of Croatia is widely known.