Every summer, the streets of Novi Vinodolski are transformed into a playground of pure delight and fun for the biggest annual event called Summer Carnival. Over three days in June and July, locals and tourists from around the world come together to drink, eat and parade around in unique costumes while their faces are embellished with smiles that radiate pure joy.
Photo credit:
Tourist Board of the Town of Novi Vinodolski
People of all ages, from toddlers to the young at heart, adorn themselves in vibrant outfits, transforming into characters from folklore, history, and whimsical realms. The streets become a rich tapestry of colors as laughter echoes through every corner, and wide smiles grace the faces of participants and onlookers alike.
''Novi Vinodolski boasts a rich carnival tradition that dates back to 1993. During that time, the inaugural summer carnival took place, aiming to grow and attract an increasing number of masqueraders and visitors. It proved to be a full success as the Novi Vinodolski Carnival attracted thousands of visitors and masqueraders, and this year it is also celebrating its 30th anniversary. This year the program has been slightly expanded, so we hope that in the first weekend of July, Novi will truly live the summer carnival and that all visitors and all masqueraders will have a great time", said Tena Peričić, director of the Tourist Board of the Town of Novi Vinodolski.
Colorful Costumes and Endless Smiles
This year, this spectacle of colors, music, and laughter will open its doors once again, celebrating its 30th anniversary. It all starts on June 27, with a captivating photo exhibition hosted at the Tourist Information Center of the Tourist Board of the Town of Novi Vinodolski. Additionally, a part of the exhibition will be featured along at the Korzo Hrvatskih Branitelja following the official opening in the TIC.
Continuing the festivities on June 29, a vibrant carnival party will liven up the city, serving as a prelude to the parades scheduled for Friday and Saturday. DJs will be stationed at three different locations throughout the city, each playing diverse genres of music. The mesmerizing display will be complemented by disco balls, enhancing the ambiance of the day. This will mark the official commencement of the three-day program for the 30th International Summer Carnival in Novi Vinodolski.
On the following day, Friday, June 30, the much-anticipated Children's Summer Carnival will take place, as per tradition. This joyous event brings together numerous children participating in the parade, accompanied by parents, grandparents, and eager onlookers. The procession will kick off from Pizzeria Nava, situated at the lower part of the Korzo Hrvatskih Branitelja, and culminate at the bus station. Starting at 8:00 p.m., the parade will be accompanied by delightful children's programs and music on two stages at Ivan Mažuranić Square. In addition to the organized groups participating in the procession, Novi Vinodolski Tourist Board warmly invited all children present in Novi Vinodolski that day to dress up and join the lively gathering.
Saturday is the pinnacle of masquerade madness and an internationally renowned procession that has been cherished for three decades. This year, the procession will once again traverse the Korzo Hrvatskih Branitelja at 8:00 p.m. Three stages will reverberate with music, while a diverse selection of culinary delights will tantalize the taste buds of attendees. The atmosphere will be electric and continue long into the night, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Novi Vinodolski Summer Carnival is a culmination of dreams, laughter, and unadulterated fun. It has that magical ability to awaken the inner child in all who attend. And the 30th-anniversary edition of the Summer Carnival promises to be a truly memorable experience.
Photo credit:
Tourist Board of the Town of Novi Vinodolski