Advent Zagreb is upon us and the city centre has been entirely consumed by festive cheer, with Christmas markets, trees and lights strung across the capital’s busiest streets and squares. As ever, the programme is dense with things to see and do. Time Out Croatia already put together a more general preview of the event, but now it’s time to pick out five of the best attractions from the dizzying programme running through until January 7.
Ice Park
The perennial classic of Advent Zagreb, the outdoor skating rink at Trg Kralja Tomislava – Ice Park – is back for the tenth time. Glide along at this beautiful central location, sandwiched between the main train station and the Art Pavilion, a short walk from the main square – a walk that will take you past other Advent Zagreb locations in Zrinjevac park. Skating sessions start at 10am with slots lasting an hour, entrance onto the ice staggered every half-hour.
Once you’re off the ice, grab a bite and some drinks at the food stalls flanking the rink.
Where: Trg Kralja Tomislava
When: Daily 10am-11pm (last slot at 10pm); Christmas & New Year's Day 11am-11pm; Christmas Eve 10am-5pm; New Year's Eve 10am-2am
Admission: €3.50 (10am-3.30pm); €4.50 (4pm-11pm); family and other prices here.
Advent on Tuškanac
An Advent Zagreb debutant, Zagreb’s Hunting Museum and its garden are embracing the Christmas spirit. With a charmingly decorated garden and the quirkiest nativity scene – made entirely from the likeness of wild animals – Advent on Tuškanac is offering goulash, sausages, gin and wine that visitors can enjoy by the fire. Those who visit Hubert’s Cottage here have the opportunity to tour the Hunting Museum completely free of charge.
Where: Ulica Vladimira Nazora 61 & 63
When: Daily 3pm-11pm (Museum 5pm-8pm); Closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Eve.
Admission: Free
Fooling Around by Fuliranje
As ever, this favourite is being staged on the elegant Oleander terrace of the Hotel Esplanade, an Orient Express-era landmark by the main train station. This year’s theme – Felicità – is dedicated to Venice, promising "refined luxury and carefully selected Italian canzones”, as well as a classy gourmet offering prepared by top local chefs across nine stalls. The programme also includes a line-up of various DJs, a masquerade ball and a variety of themed parties. Further detail on Fooling Around can be found on the event’s Facebook page.
Where: Hotel Esplanade, Mihanovićeva 1
When: Until January 1. Mon-Fri noon-11pm; Sat-Sun & Christmas Eve 11am-11pm; New Year's Eve 11am-9pm; Christmas Day & New Year's Day 4pm-11pm
Admission: Free
Polar Express
This year’s installation in Zagreb’s Grič tunnel is sure to be another hit. Beginning at the Mesnička entrance, visitors walk through an icy fairy-tale scene drawing inspiration from the Chris Van Allsburg book after which it’s named. Icebergs, little projections, streaking blue lights and a little model train running in a loop above make Polar Express a magical experience. Guests will exit onto Radićeva, right in the heart of the centre and the rest of the festivities.
Where: Grič tunnel, Mesnička ulica entrance
When: Daily 9am-10pm; Christmas & New Year's Eve 9am-4pm; Christmas & New Year's Day, Boxing Day and January 6 noon-8pm.
Admission: Free
Moon Garden, Ribnjak
Perhaps the most romantic selection on this list, Moon Garden transforms Ribnjak park into a soft and inviting scene of moonlight. Hundreds of little lights create the illusion of falling stars and ‘moonflowers’, with a wooden footpath encouraging visitors to walk through this little wonderland. If you’re looking to share a special moment with someone, look no further than Moon Garden.
Where: Ribnjak park
When: Daily 4pm-midnight
Admission: Free