Tag Archive for: Events

I’ve just got back from a very lovely week in Zagreb, one of my favourite cities. It may not be a place that’s on everyone’s radar, whether that’s because they prefer to spend time in other parts of Croatia (they coast!) or other European cities are more famous for city breaks. Either way, that’s a shame as there’s so much to keep you occupied in Zagreb! And this time of year, the absolute number one activity is the Christmas celebrations. So please have a read of what I thought about Advent in Zagreb 2025.

What is Advent in Zagreb 2025?

Advent in Zagreb is the big Christmas market, fair, event…whatever you may call it…that takes over so many of Zagreb’s streets, squares, parks, promenades, museums and more. The event officially opened on Saturday, 29th November, and will continue to run until 7th January 2026. Whilst some aspects run almost all day, every day (for example, the food and drink stalls on the main square, the Ice Park skating rink and much more), other elements (concerts, museum events) take place only on certain days or for only part of the Advent run.

And whilst we’re officially in week two of Advent, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy the event. So book your flights to Zagreb now! Take a look at our Getting to Zagreb page for full details of these, and then our Accommodation in Zagreb page to find somewhere to stay.

Advent in Zagreb 2025 Highlights

The main square, Trg ban Jelacic

You can’t go wrong by starting your Advent escapade in Zagreb’s main square, Trg ban Jelacic, which is home to the giant Christmas tree, a small winter village installation (perfect for your festive selfies!), the Advent candles that are sited around Mandusevac Fountain and a number of food and drink (and trinket) stalls. Here, the Christmas tram starts and ends its journey as well. You’ll probably walk through this square a hundred times during your Zagreb exploration, so you’ll spend a lot of time here. It’s at night that the square really turns on the charm with all the fairy lights fully lit.

The winter wonderland installation is home to a number of bells which you can ring, which adds a sweet little interactive element. Youngsters and the not-so-young seem to love ringing these bells. Even I had a go!

Funnily enough, I reached Zagreb a few days before Advent opened and saw the preparations of the main square. Turns out that even city decorations involve exasperated people slowly untangling fairy lights.

Twinkly lights and excellent music in Zrinjevac Park

Just south of the main square is Zrinjevac Park. This park is also adorned with so many (really, so, so many) pretty Christmas lights, strung up on all of the many trees. The central pathway is lined by little souvenir stalls selling Christmas- and Zagreb-themed (and some that are neither themed) items. In the middle of the park is a bandstand that serves as a stage for musicians and bands who play from morning to late at night (obviously, several different acts play each day!) on the weekends, and evenings only on weekdays. Every time I was here, the quality of music was truly excellent, with a wide variety of songs (Croatian and English) and genres, some festive themed and many not. I heard a delightful chilled version of The Weeknd’s Blinding Lights, which of course has nothing to do with Christmas, but it was perfect for the general fun vibe!

Zrinjevac is also where you can find Santa giving his sleigh a little warm-up. Say what? Well, you can opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride around the park with Santa at the reins – how magical! Yes, he uses horses instead of reindeer here. I guess Santa must be giving his reindeer an extra sleep until he needs them on Christmas Eve.

Advent Zrinjevac is loosely its own thing within Advent in Zagreb. Take a look at the website to see the line-up of artists playing at the bandstand.

Feast at Fulliranje

Further south from Zrinjevac Par,k you come to Strossmayer Square/Park, which is home to Fuliranje, absolutely THE place to come to for tasty and inventive food. A great number of stalls, many of them run by established restaurants, eateries or names in the Croatian food world, have set up here offering their tasty dishes. It is here that the people of Zagreb descend to have a good time in the evenings, especially on the weekend, to indulge in the food and drink and general merriment. Should you want to experience Fuliranje but more quietly, come during the day – there were plenty of families here when I visited in mid-afternoon.

Another edition of Fuliranje, called Fooling Around, is located in the courtyard of the very grand Esplanade Hotel. This version has perhaps a slightly fancier selection of food stalls. Many are loosely themed around train travel, for the Esplanade was constructed for travellers who were stopping in Zagreb when travelling on the Orient Express. There was also excellent live music here too; I especially appreciated a rousing rendition of Billy Idol’s Rebel Yell when I was here!

Ice delights at The Ice Park / Ledeni Park

Further south again, on King Tomislav Square in front of the Art Pavilion, is the Ice Park (Ledeni Park in Croatian). I talked last year about how impressed I was with this skating rink – the 1,500 square metre rink is one of the largest in this part of Europe and covers so much of the square. As well as the usual large rectangular rink, you also have paths that lead you around the central fountain and further so you can skate past the Art Pavilion. This is also beautifully lit up and provides an awesome backdrop for the skaters.

Now, I’m not the biggest fan of skating (despite taking lessons…many, many years ago!), but the Ice Park is also a fun place to be just to take in the general atmosphere. Again, there are a number of food and drink stalls here, lining the rink, so you can easily enjoy some festive fun even if you don’t take to the rink.

The rink is priced at €5 for peak times (evenings and weekends) and €3.50 for off-peak times, for a one-hour session. This is also very reasonable, in comparison to Christmas rinks elsewhere! Ice Park is open every day, even on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, so you can get in a skate session after some indulgence. You can even go skating at midnight on New Year’s Eve to celebrate the start of 2026…on ice!

The opening night of the Ice Park saw a free performance of the Nutcracker on the ice. Wonderful…but oh so busy! I would still recommend that you drop by for a future performance of this; there will be two more at 6.30pm on Monday, 15th and Monday 22nd December. Take a look at the Ledeni Park Program page for more details.

Warming drinks and tasty food

You’ll stuff yourself silly at Advent, really you will! Most of the main festive dishes have made a return this year, including sausages and fritule (doughnut balls). Something new is what they call germknedla, a giant dumpling filled with plum jam that’s traditionally topped with vanilla sauce and poppy seeds. Many stalls offer this with all sorts of different toppings too – chocolate, caramel, Oreo – but just be warned that these really are giant and will fill you up.

Warming winter drinks, of course, play a big part in the Advent experience, and I was pleased to see that white mulled wine was just as readily available as red mulled wine everywhere. (White is so much better, isn’t?!) But another favourite of mine, hot gin, was also on offer, as was hot pelin (made from the Croatian liqueur, Pelinkovac). Hot Aperol was a new one for me! A cup of mulled wine cost €3/€4 whilst other “cocktails” were around €8. Some locations offered drinks in a cute cup or mug (such as on the main square) for which you have to pay €1 or €2 extra, although you can get your money back for this if you choose not to keep the cup as a souvenir. But I thought the mug from the main square was definitely cute enough to keep!

Another lively place for food and drink (and live music) is Cafe de Matoš, on the other side of Lotrscak Tower from the Moon Garden (see below). This long promenade again features many stalls selling really rather hearty food, and lots of warming drinks and cocktails. Head right to the end of the promenade for a perfect photo opportunity of Zagreb Cathedral!

Live music

As I’ve already mentioned, there’s so much live music happening everywhere during Advent in Zagreb. One definite highlight for me was a free concert from the highly esteemed Zagreb Soloists in the Okotogon Arcade at midday on a Sunday. (They will repeat this on 14th and 21st December.) The lovely, smart setting was the perfect backdrop for the strings of this ensemble, who performed a 40-minute set of traditional and more modern Christmas (and non-Christmas) music.

Moon Garden magic

Located on Strossmayer Promenade, just to the west of Lotrscak Tower and at the top of the funicular (which is not operating at the moment because of renovations) you will find the Moon Garden. Last year, this Advent element was held in Ribnjak Park, which was also special…but it’s even better this year. Head up here to enjoy this peaceful setting decorated fully with lights, hanging from the trees, fences and more. There’s a very special feeling here as people do revert to an almost childhood joy when encountering so many pretty lights. There’s also a decent view of Zagreb’s skyline, although at night – when you experience the full effects of the Moon Garden – there’s not too much to see.

The Moon Garden is the perfect place to relax for a little while, away from the crowds of the rest of Advent in Zagreb.

You can also enter Strossmayer Promenade (by ramp) from Mesnicka ulica to the west, right by an entrance to the Gric Tunnel.

The people

Was Advent in Zagreb busy? Oh yes! Everywhere was pretty full of Advent revellers, and Zagreb was generally taken over by a happy atmosphere. I encountered many visitors to Zagreb – young and old – who seemed to be really enjoying the Advent experience, delighted at the fact that Advent was happening “all over the city”.

Some slight misses

Now, last year I loved the experience of the Christmas tram, which takes you on a short (20-minute) circular sightseeing journey from and back to the main square, during which Santa and an elf put on a “show” on board. This year, my experience wasn’t so great – from not being able to buy tickets at the booth because it was closed (despite it saying it should be open!) to being made to buy them online via a URL that didn’t make any mention of the Christmas tram, to my chosen tram (the modern one) breaking down forcing me onto the next one fifteen minutes later…it seemed as if there were some early “operational difficulties”, let’s just say. I also chose an evening tram this time round (they only run in daytime on Friday and the weekends) but it was hard to see much of Zagreb in this tram at night.

I would still recommend the Christmas tram – especially if you have kids – but book a daytime one! You will be able to see much more of your surroundings.

Another miss for me… Gric Tunnel is located just west of the main square, and often hosts installations for different events throughout the year. Last year for Advent, the tunnel housed a Polar Express interpretation, with light shows and a miniature running train. This year, the tunnel features bells (the theme of this year’s Advent in Zagreb) recreating – but not fully playing – Jingle Bells. It’s not bad, but not great. Sorry to say it, but some lights would really make the tunnel more special!

Other delights in Zagreb

If you’ve had your fill of Advent and want to do something else for a second, there really is plenty to occupy your time in Croatia’s capital city. Take a look at our Sightseeing in Zagreb, Eating and Drinking in Zagreb or Shopping in Zagreb pages to get you started. Or just head to our Zagreb section and take it from there!

More info

There’s all there is to know about Advent in Zagreb on the official website: www.adventzagreb.hr/en. Do also keep an eye on the Zagreb Tourist Board Instagram and Facebook accounts for news and regular updates

Advent in Zagreb 2025 – is it worth it?

Absolutely, YES! It’s a very fun experience, full of Christmas cheer, fun events, and hearty food and warming drink. (What else do you want at Christmas time?) As the main part of Zagreb is fairly compact, it’s also super easy to get around the main parts of Advent in Zagreb as well. All in all, book your flights to Zagreb now!

We are only a week or so away from December, and all of the very merry, festive cheer that that month brings! You will likely know that Christmas celebrations take place in many towns and cities all across Croatia, the largest and most visited being in Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb. This year, the event – Advent in Zagreb – sees many favourite elements return, along with new items in the calendar taking place. Officially on from 29th November 2025 to 7th January 2026, find out everything you need to know about Advent in Zagreb 2025 here!

Where will Advent in Zagreb 2025 take place?

All over Zagreb! Unlike some European markets or experiences in other cities, Advent in Zagreb occupies multiple central, large spaces – such as the main square (Ban Jelacic Square), Strossmayer Park, Zrinjevac Park and Tomislav Square. But so many other venues and locations will also offer festive cheer throughout the Advent in Zagreb run. Really, the festival takes over so much of the city – it’s not contained in just one space!

Although many of the festivities will run for the duration of Advent, do note that some will only run on specific days or for only part of the official dates. Do always check the official website – www.adventzagreb.hr/en – to see what’s happening when!

Advent in Zagreb 2025 Highlights

Some of the best spots to head to first during Advent in Zagreb include the below. You can’t help but have fun here!

Trg ban Jelacic

Zagreb’s main square will once again be the central spot for many of the Advent celebrations, and where you should head to first to get your bearings and start immersing yourself in the spirit of Christmas. It is here that the main Christmas tree is situated, beautifully decorated. Here you will also find a magical winter wonderland, perfect for snapping yourself in whilst in a festive pose! One side will also see a market where you can indulge in some tasty food and warming drinks (try my favourites, hot pelen or white mulled wine!), or pick up a few souvenirs.

The main square is also the location of the Advent Candles, located around Mandusevac Fountain. The first candle will be lit at 4.30pm on Saturday 29th November, the official opening day of Advent in Zagreb.

The main square will also be the location for a concert – featuring no fewer than eight Zagreb choirs – at 11am on Christmas Eve, and for seeing in the New Year during the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Details of the latter have yet to be announced, so watch this space!

Zrinjevac Park

Another of my favourite spots was all the fun of Zrinjevac Park, which is home to many, many stalls selling lovely little trinkets. In the centre of the Park is the bandstand, which, of course, hosts many a musical number. Around the bandstand, you’ll find plenty of other stalls selling food and drink. The beauty of Zrinjevac Park is its space; you can retreat a little away from the mass of people whilst still enjoying the atmosphere. And the twinkly lights! So many twinkly lights!

The stalls in Zrinjevac Park are open daily from 12pm (10am on weekends) until late. You can really have your fill of Christmas excitement here!

Fuliranje

Just south of Zrinjevac Park is Strossmayer Park, which will host the ever-popular Fuliranje…which translates to Foolin’ Around in English. Here is where some of the best fun is had, as well as so much incredibly tasty food. 16 different food establishments will be feeding the revellers, with stalls from establishments such as Noel, SpudBud, Gdje Je Jura? and Burger Institute all present. Not forgetting drinks – festive hot drinks, cocktails, beer, wine…

There’s another, smaller but no less charming edition of Fuliranje/Fooling Around on the outdoor terrace of the Hotel Esplanade. This one is themed after the Orient Express, a nod to the Hotel Esplanade once being a stop on this train tour.

Grič Tunnel

Gric Tunnel, just to the west of the main square, is an interesting experience any time of year. During Advent, the tunnel is always transformed into something rather special, with the enclosed space utilised very well. This year, the installation For All to Hear will see eight mechanical bronze bells play different versions of Jingle Bells.

Nearby, Grič Park will be adorned with beautiful arches of lights.

Moon Garden

Moon Garden was another of my highlights last year, and this year, the spectacular yet peaceful light installation moves to Strossmayer Promenade in the Upper Town. I found Moon Garden a great spot to get away from the Advent crowds…for many spots can get very busy indeed!

Ledeni Park / Ice Park

Located in King Tomislav Park, with the imposing Art Pavilion as a very impressive backdrop, is the Ledeni Park ice skating rink. It’s a very large rink, certainly comparable to large-scale rinks in other European cities. But what makes this one even more fun, in my opinion, is the ice paths that encircle the central fountain – you can enjoy a leisurely (or high speed!) skate all around the edge of the park rather than just sticking to a small patch of ice that you might have to do on more traditional rectangular rinks.

Ledeni Park is open daily – even on Christmas Eve/Day and New Year’s Eve/Day. On New Year’s Eve, it’s even open until 2am, so you can see in the New Year on ice, if you wish!

(Christmas) music to your ears

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without some glorious musical pleasures!

Music and Art Group Kralj will be hosting pop-up performances of Christmas cheer in several locations around the city, including the Stone Gate, Krvavi Bridge, Radiceva Street and Stara Vlaska Square. Performances take place on Fridays and Saturdays at 7pm or 7.50pm; take a look at their Instagram for more details.

Zagreb Soloists will be holding their wonderful performances at the Oktogon Centre every Sunday at 12pm whilst the Zagreb Chamber Orchestra will be putting on four wonderful evening concerts to spread some musical holiday cheer. The first of these will take place at 8pm on Sunday 30th November at the Church of St Blaise. Entrance is free, but spots must be reserved by emailing zagrebacki.komorni.orkestar@gmail.com.

Evenings with Brahms will take place in the Hungarian Cultural Centre in Zagreb, involving a rare Streicher piano built in 1868! Entry is free, but you must reserve a spot prior to each concert by emailing info@uocristoforium.hr. Concerts take place on 1st, 3rd, 8th and 12th December.

What could be better than enjoying music at that icon of Zagreb, St Mark’s Church? Classic and religious music will be played at a concert by The Oratorio Association at 12.30pm on Sunday 14th December, and they will also perform a midnight mass on 24th December.

One of the magical musical moments I enjoyed at last year’s event was the Advent Under the Lantern by Lotrscak Tower. After the traditional lighting of the gas lamps, the Association Musica Nota will perform some wonderful carols.

Watch out for sudden tram flash mobs! The Maranatha Association will sing their heart out on a tram going from Ban Jelacic Square through the Lower Town.

Head to the Cravaticum Museum of the Cravat or Tklacicevs Balcony (performances alternate between the two) to hear Ad Gloriam Brass and Wind Ensemble.

Advent in Zagreb 2025 for families

What could be more delightful for younger ones than a ride in a sleigh with Santa? There will be evening rides in Santa’s carriage sleigh, every day from 6pm to 8pm, around Zrinjevac Park. The ride will cost €15 for adults and €8 for children.

Mala Scena (Small Scenes) Theatre will be hosting twice daily, weekend performances of “Saving Father Christmas” – a tale of a girl called Iva who needs to help rescue Father Christmas, with her grandmother, as he’s been trapped by a witch!

From 20th December, head to Opatovina Park to view a live nativity scene. Members of the local Cenacolo Community have created all aspects of the nativity – from the set, the costumes and the music to the performance itself. There will be three performances a day, at 4pm, 5pm and 7pm.

Museum fun during Advent in Zagreb

Zagreb is home to many fine and fantastic museums, home to exhibits ranging from the very traditional to the modern and eclectic. It is these very museums that will also host a number of top Advent events…

The Museum of Chocolate will present a special exhibition showing Christmas chocolate products through the ages, from chocolates to Advent calendars to advertisements.

The Croatian Natural History Museum will run a rich series of events, from workshops to film screenings (including that Christmas classic, Home Alone!), classical music concerts and lectures.

Zagreb City Museum is worth a visit any time of year, but especially at Christmas, as they always host a lovely variety of events! These include regular concerts by the Zagreb Soloists, a special edition of a “pub quiz”, crafts workshops including making Christmas wreaths and Christmas baubles, and a guided tour of “The Spirit of Old Zagreb Cafes”.

Arty types will delight in the Museum of Unfinished Art‘s Friday evenings. Join them to explore different art techniques – with some guidance and a glass of wine – and create your own work of art.

Other Advent fun

Something new for this year will be special rides provided by Old Zagreb. They will offer scenic drives of many of the sights of Zagreb in an electric replica of a retro car.

The reconstructed Upper Town will also host much more of the Advent in Zagreb celebrations this year, with a number of spectacularly decorated spaces and art installations. Be sure to take a walk through the Upper Town this year!

Getting to Zagreb and Accommodation

Zagreb is very well served with flights all year round. Croatia Airlines flies from London Heathrow three times a week, whilst Ryanair fly from London Stansted daily and from Dublin as well. There are also numerous flights direct to Zagreb from all over Europe – find out more on our Getting to Zagreb page.

You can search for and book hotels, hostels, apartments and more on our Accommodation in Zagreb page. Croatia’s capital city is blessed with an abundance of accommodation options, something for all budgets and tastes!

More info

The official website is www.adventzagreb.hr/en, where you can find details of all the goings on. Do also read up my Visit Croatia Review: Advent in Zagreb about all the fun I had attending last year’s event! And take a look at the video of my experience below.

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Advent in Zagreb 2025
29th November 2025 to 7th January 2026
multiple locations all over Zagreb
www.adventzagreb.hr/en