It’s not only Zagreb that is staging magical Advent attractions in the run-up to Christmas. All across Istria, lights, market stalls and family-friendly activities are brightening up main squares and streets.
Here are some of the highlights:
Motovun
This Saturday, December 16, sees the start of the Advent celebrations in Motovun, a hilltop community known for its wine and gastronomy. Both will be firmly in evidence around the historic main square until December 30, as well as Santa’s house and a Christmas garden. For more details, see here
Poreč
A free skating rink centrepieces the Advent illuminations in the coastal town of Poreč, the celebrations accessible on a special Christmas train that runs through the town. Kids can visit the home of Santa Claus himself, while grown-ups can enjoy free live music performed by some of Croatia’s most famous acts. For more details, see here
Pula
Giardini is where you find Pula’s Advent attractions, themed around a magic forest and running until January 7. With free parking after 5pm on weekdays and all day over the weekends, families will be flocking from miles around to Istria’s biggest city for live music and entertainment, as well as the chance to meet Santa Claus, his wife and his elves. For more details, see here
Rovinj
Christmas by the Sea is the theme of the Advent celebrations in Rovinj, where a promenade and three Yuletide hubs has been set up around town, as well as a traditional batana boat. Christmas shows and workshops are scheduled all through December, with a concert on Christmas Eve itself. For more details, see here
Umag
This lively town in north-west Istria starts the party later than others, on December 21, but from then until January 1, Umag will be transformed into UMAGic thanks to live shows, DJs and parties, bookended by the traditional communal bike ride at noon on New Year’s Day. For more details, see here