This holiday season, Ban Jelačić Square in Zagreb becomes the center of Advent events with a unique theme dedicated to urban legends. Organizers from the Caffe de Matoš team have prepared the "Legendary Advent at the Square," which will offer visitors a rich program filled with music, gastronomy, and interactive content.

Scenography inspired by Zagreb's legends

The central Zagreb square will be decorated with handcrafted wooden dolls in life-size, representing famous characters from Zagreb's stories. Among them are Manda and the thirsty knight, Countess Nera, Dora Krupićeva from Šenoa's "Zlatarovo zlato" and the Grič cannon, a symbol of the city's defense. These figures will be placed under a sparkling sky made up of 1300 meters of glowing stalactites, creating a magical atmosphere.

Music program and entertainment

Advent at the Square starts on November 30th with the lighting of the lights, followed by a concert of the legendary band Psihomodo Pop. Throughout December, visitors will be able to enjoy performances by artists such as Novi Fosili, Alen Đuras, Ante Gelo and his band, Sabrina Hebiri, Gelato Sisters, Elvis Sršen & the Funkblasters, and Toma & the Twisters. Additionally, themed nights with DJ performances are planned, and visitors will be able to learn program details through the AI WhatsApp assistant.

Children's program

The youngest visitors will not be forgotten. Every Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 1 PM, there will be performances of "Colorful World," scientific workshops by Tinker Labs, writing letters to Santa Claus, and face painting. A special children's New Year’s Eve celebration will include a festive performance and dance.

Gastronomic offer

The gastronomic offer of Advent at the Square includes 13 catering booths with a variety of dishes and drinks. Visitors will be able to taste buncek with horseradish sauce and sour cabbage in flatbread, ćevapi in bao buns with ajvar sauce, secali goulash, sausages, tacos, kurtoskalacs, dumplings, and fritters. The beverage offer includes mulled wine, mulled gin and pelinkovac, rum punch, hot chocolate with rum, tea with honey, brandy, liqueurs, beer, wines, and sparkling wines.