As the most joyful time of the year approaches, the City of Bakar is preparing a rich and diverse program for the "Christmas in Bakar" event for the year 2024, intended for all generations. Numerous local associations, institutions, and individuals have joined forces to create a unique festive experience that will satisfy different tastes and interests. Visitors will have the opportunity throughout December to enjoy a festive atmosphere and holiday mood that will enrich the cultural and social life of the city.

Program of the "Christmas in Bakar" Event 2024.

December 1st – Lighting of the First Advent Candle and Concert by Jose Butorca

The ceremonial lighting of the first Advent candle will take place in Banj Park starting at 6:00 PM, accompanied by a suitable program that includes musical performances by local artists and recitations by children from primary schools. After the ceremony, at the "Matija Mažić" Cultural Center in Bakar, at 7:00 PM, the exhibition "Faces of Kogul" will be opened, showcasing portraits of prominent citizens of Bakar throughout history. At the same time, a Christmas fair with an offer of handicrafts and local products will be held, and the evening will culminate with a concert by the renowned musician Jose Butorca, who will perform traditional Christmas songs and his most famous hits.

December 5th – "Read to Me"

The Bakar City Library at 5:30 PM is organizing a special storytelling session and a creative workshop led by Aunt Josipa Lazarević. This event is intended for the youngest, aiming to foster a love for reading and develop creativity. Children will have the opportunity to participate in interactive readings of Christmas stories and create their own Christmas decorations to take home.

December 7th – Cooking Beans in a Hundred Ways

The Bakar Volunteer Fire Department is preparing a unique culinary event in the City Garden in Bakar starting at 5:00 PM. Visitors will be able to taste beans prepared according to traditional recipes, as well as try modern variations of this favorite dish. The event will be accompanied by a musical program and appropriate entertainment activities for all ages.

December 8th and 15th – Christmas Train Adventure

The magical Christmas train, filled with joy and children's laughter, will travel from Škrljevo to Zlobin. Departure is scheduled from Škrljevo railway station at 1:45 PM, and return from Zlobin at 5:00 PM. On the train, children will be greeted by playful elves, gifts, and plenty of fun. Upon arrival in Zlobin, the magic continues at the Cultural Center with a children's program, animators, a Christmas fair, and catering services. On December 8th, the play "Santa Claus and Forest Animals" will be performed in the production of Production Z, while on December 15th, the Orange Theater will present "The Nutcracker." Due to the limited number of seats, registration via an online form is mandatory.

December 12th – Advent in Škrljevo

At the Škrljevo Cultural Center from 5:00 PM, there will be a Christmas program for the "Bee," "Bambi," and "Škrljevo" kindergartens, Škrljevo Regional School, and "Zumbe" Škrljevo. The program includes a handicraft fair, tree decorating, and a Christmas gathering with mulled wine and music, organized by the Škrljevo Local Committee Council.

December 13th – "Potle dela" Fest with the Group "Point"

The Christmas gathering in front of the Administrative Building of the Bakar Industrial Zone begins at 4:00 PM, with a performance by the group "Point." Visitors will be able to enjoy traditional dishes and drinks, and workshops for creating Christmas decorations will be organized for the youngest.

December 15th – Christmas Concert by KUD "Sloga"

The Cultural and Artistic Society "Sloga," along with guests, will hold a Christmas concert at the Hreljin Cultural Center starting at 7:00 PM. The program includes traditional Christmas songs and folk dances from various regions of Croatia.

December 20th – Christmas Concert by KUU "Sklad"

The Cultural and Artistic Association "Sklad" is organizing a Christmas concert at the Church of St. Andrew the Apostle in Bakar at 7:00 PM. The audience will have the opportunity to enjoy performances of classical and contemporary Christmas compositions performed by a choir and soloists.

December 21st – Play "4 Funerals and a Wedding"

At the "Matija Mažić" Cultural Center in Bakar, starting at 7:00 PM, Irena Grdinić and Mario Lipovšek Battifiaca will perform the play "4 Funerals and a Wedding." Tickets priced at 10 euros are available on the "Moje karte" portal.

December 22nd – Advent in Hreljin

The Hreljin Local Committee Council is organizing an Advent gathering in front of the Marohnić Ethno House from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM, with a suitable program that includes traditional Christmas songs, performances by local musicians, and workshops for children. Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy warm drinks and homemade pastries, and the youngest can participate in making decorations and playing with animators. In case of unfavorable weather conditions, the program will be moved to the Hreljin Cultural Center.

December 24th – Traditional Snack

On Christmas Eve, the City Garden in Bakar becomes the center of festive gathering for all citizens and visitors. From 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, a traditional snack is organized with homemade specialties and an entertainment program. Musical accompaniment is provided by the "Trio Dar Mar," whose performances will bring an extra dose of joy and festive spirit. This event is an opportunity for all generations to gather, socialize, and enjoy togetherness.

December 24th – Traditional Tree Decorating

The "Our Children" Society in Bakar is organizing a joint tree decorating at Trg Vrata in Bakar starting at 5:00 PM. This event invites families and children to participate together in decorating the Christmas tree with warm drinks and suitable music. Decorating the tree is a symbol of togetherness and Christmas joy, aiming to create memories that will last a lifetime.

December 26th – Bakar Chanting

On the feast of St. Stephen, the traditional "Bakar Chanting" is held, a custom that preserves the cultural heritage of the city of Bakar. Members of the Cultural and Artistic Association "Sklad" visit homes in Bakar from 2:00 PM, singing the traditional song "Pejmo, pejmo." This custom symbolizes festive community and the spreading of joy through music and song, reminding us of the importance of preserving local traditions.

Additional Festive Activities

In addition to the aforementioned events, various activities will take place throughout December in Bakar, including Christmas markets, workshops for children, concert evenings, and gastronomic events. Visitors will be able to enjoy Advent walks, sightseeing of historical landmarks, and special festive decorations of city streets and squares. The "Christmas in Bakar" program is designed to enliven the city during the winter months and attract visitors from the wider region.

Practical Information

All events within the "Christmas in Bakar" program are open to the public, with the note that for certain activities, such as the "Christmas Train Adventure," there is a limited number of seats, so prior registration is required. Organizers advise visitors to regularly check program updates on the official websites of the City of Bakar and the Tourist Board.

The "Christmas in Bakar" event in 2024 brings a diverse and rich program designed for all generations. Through numerous cultural, entertainment, and gastronomic activities, the City of Bakar creates a festive experience that combines tradition and contemporary holiday trends. Visit Bakar this December and be part of this magical Christmas story that celebrates community, joy, and the spirit of the holidays.