Croatia, with its mesmerizing coastline, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, is the perfect destination for those seeking extraordinary experiences. In 2025, the country’s calendar is brimming with remarkable events that celebrate music, art, food, and tradition.
From the dazzling Adriatic shores to the cobbled streets of historic towns, there’s a festival in Croatia for Preview Changes (opens in a new tab)everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to the unmissable festivals in Croatia, 2025:
Dubrovnik Summer Festival
10th July – 25th August
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival is an annual celebration of performing arts. Running from mid-July to mid-August, this prestigious event transforms the city into a spectacular open-air stage.
Expect theatre, classical music concerts, opera, and contemporary dance performed in iconic venues such as the Rector’s Palace and Lovrijenac Fortress. In 2025, the festival promises a dazzling programme featuring renowned international artists alongside Croatia’s finest talent.
Pag Carnival
1st May – 4th May
The island of Pag, known for its stunning beaches and world-famous cheese, comes alive every February during the Pag Carnival. This vibrant celebration marks the pre-Lenten season with traditional masks, colourful parades, and lively music.
Bringing together a mix of modern and historic customs, the Pag Carnival is an unforgettable way to experience local culture. Make 2025 the year you join in the festivities and indulge in the island’s culinary delights.
Rijeka Carnival
17th January to 5th March
Every February, the city of Rijeka hosts one of the largest and most colourful carnivals in Europe. The Rijeka Carnival is a spectacle of elaborate costumes, parades, and street performances.
With a history dating back centuries, this vibrant event brings together tradition and modernity. In 2025, visitors can expect dazzling floats, live music, and a city buzzing with energy. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this joyous celebration.
Sinjska Alka
August 3rd
Steeped in history and tradition, the Sinjska Alka is one of the most unique festivals in Croatia. Taking place in the town of Sinj every August, this chivalric tournament dates back to the 18th century. Riders on horseback compete to spear a small metal ring, all while dressed in traditional costumes.
The festival commemorates a historic victory against the Ottoman Empire and is recognised as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. A visit to Sinjska Alka in 2025 offers a glimpse into Croatia’s proud heritage.
Split Summer Festival
11th to 13th July
The Split Summer Festival, running throughout July and August, is another cultural gem. Featuring opera, drama, and ballet performances, the festival utilises the city’s historical landmarks, including the iconic Peristyle of Diocletian’s Palace.
In 2025, the festival’s programme promises to captivate audiences with its mix of traditional and contemporary productions. Don’t miss the chance to experience Split’s artistic flair.
Ultra Europe Festival
11th July to 13th July
For lovers of electronic dance music, Ultra Europe is a must-attend festival in Croatia. Held in Split every July, this electrifying event attracts top DJs and partygoers from around the globe.
In 2025, expect headliners like Martin Garrix and David Guetta lighting up the Poljud Stadium, with additional parties hosted on nearby islands such as Brač and Hvar. With its high-energy atmosphere and stunning seaside setting, Ultra Europe is the epitome of a Croatian summer celebration.
Festival of Lights
19th March to 23rd March
Watch the winter nights disappear as we welcome spring with this colorful light show. This spectacular art festival in Croatia is making a return for 2024, showcasing all new light displays on Zagreb’s famous landmarks. Be sure to check out the Festival of Lights this year!
Zagreb Advent
While most think of summer when planning a trip to Croatia, the winter season offers equally magical experiences. Zagreb Advent, held from late November to early January, transforms Croatia’s capital into a winter wonderland.
Voted one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, this festival boasts twinkling lights, festive stalls, and live music. Sip mulled wine as you wander through Ban Jelačić Square and Zrinjevac Park, soaking up the enchanting holiday atmosphere.
Nights of Diocletian
Transport yourself back to a time when Diocletian ruled the eastern Mediterranean, or at least in a reenacted form of it. Nights of Diocletian is a Croatian event which sees performers dress in togas, tunics and sandals before parading the streets of Split. Think Roman carriages rolling past and soldiers standing guard in full armor, acting as a testament to a time when Emperor Diocletian was once in power.
The Festival of Oysters
This one-day festival is perfect for food lovers looking for a taste of Croatia’s freshest seafood. Journey to Croatia’s seafood capital, Mali Ston, for the opportunity to taste oysters and other local delicacies, paired with impeccable wine from the region.
Day of Truffles
Istria is famous for its truffle production, and each fall this festival in Croatia celebrates this local delicacy. Tourists from all over the world gather at this truffle festival to try the popular treat, as well as some tasty accompanying local delicacies such as honey, wine, cheese and more. You can even have a go at truffle hunting at one of their fun workshops.
If this sounds like something you would like to do on your next vacation to Croatia, speak to our travel experts who can create a custom tour to include truffle hunting on your itinerary.
Ready to explore the unforgettable festivals in Croatia in 2025? Let us craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your interests. Whether you’re drawn to cultural celebrations, world-class music, or culinary delights, our luxury tours ensure you experience the very best. Contact us today to start planning your dream Croatian getaway.
