Feast of Blessed Jakov of Zadar

On the eve of the feast, Sunday, April 26, an award ceremony for selected works from the school art competition “Blizu je blizu” 2026 will take place after the evening mass at 7 PM in St. Francis Church. This event brings together young talents and highlights the importance of heritage and spirituality in contemporary expression.

The main celebration will be held on Monday, April 27 at St. Francis Church. At 6 PM, a procession with the relics of the Blessed will begin. The relics, brought to Zadar exactly 100 years ago, bear the inscription: “From the body of Blessed Jakov of Bitetto, friar, citizen of Zadar.” The procession route will lead from St. Francis Church to the Roman Forum, along the waterfront promenade, past the Sea Organ, and back to the church, where visitors will have the opportunity to pay their respects to the relics.

The solemn Holy Mass will begin at 7 PM.

Residents and visitors are warmly invited to take part in this meaningful traditional event, an important part of Zadar’s spiritual and cultural heritage.