Opatija, known as "The Pearl of the Adriatic", during the holiday season transforms into a true winter fairy tale, attracting visitors from all over Croatia and abroad. Advent in Opatija, which lasts from November 29, 2024, to January 6, 2025, offers a rich program of events and activities for all generations.

Holiday Atmosphere in Opatija

The town is decorated with thousands of lights and lavish decorations that adorn parks, streets, and squares, creating a magical atmosphere during the Advent season. A special contribution to the holiday atmosphere was made by local entrepreneurs, creatively decorating the windows of their business premises. The Opatija Tourist Board recognized their effort and organized a competition for the best-decorated windows, with the aim of encouraging creativity and further beautifying the town during the holidays.

Advent Program in Opatija

Advent in Opatija covers a range of locations with various contents:

• Advent in Park Angiolina: Park Angiolina has been transformed into a fairy-tale promenade with holiday decorations, providing visitors with a unique experience.


• Advent at Šporer: A rich gastronomic offer and excellent programs make the Juraj Šporer Art Pavilion and the park around it an unmissable destination during the holiday season.


• Ice Magic at the Summer Stage: The outdoor ice rink provides fun for all ages, along with appropriate music and a festive atmosphere.


• Xmas Street Lungomare Advent: Lungomare hosts Advent houses with a rich gastronomic offer, music programs, and animation for children.


• Advent at Mrkate: The city market is included in the Advent events, providing additional content for visitors.

Music and Cultural Programs

During the Advent period, Opatija offers a variety of music and cultural programs, including classical music concerts, choir and klapa performances, and DJ performances across the town. Special attention is paid to programs for children, with numerous workshops, performances, and animations.

Gastronomic Offer

Opatija's restaurants, cafes, and Advent houses offer a rich gastronomic selection, focusing on traditional holiday dishes and drinks. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, top-quality hot chocolate, fritule, and other delicacies that complete the holiday experience.

Special Activities

For those seeking active rest, Nordic walking with professional guides, ice skating lessons at the Summer Stage, Christmas walks, and even New Year's swimming with Opatija's divers for the bravest are organized.

New Year's Eve Celebration

New Year's Eve celebrations are organized at various locations, including Mrkat, Tomaševac, the Juraj Šporer Art Pavilion, and Xmas Street Lungomare Advent. The traditional New Year's toast by the mayor will take place on January 1 at 12:00 on the terrace of the Kvarner hotel, with a glass of champagne and a performance by the Lovran Wind Orchestra.

Advent in Opatija grows in significance, program, and number of locations every year, and it is especially pleasing that a large number of entrepreneurs are involved, contributing to creating the unique atmosphere for which Advent in Opatija is known in Croatia and abroad.

Such initiatives not only beautify the town during the holidays but also encourage community and creativity among the local population, making Opatija an unmissable destination during the Advent season.