The Most Beautiful Time of the Year - Zadar Christmas Market is Starting Soon
The renowned Kalelarga will take a backseat for forty days as the traditional Advent in Zadar kicks off on November 24 with a grand concert by the legendary Mladen Grdović. Most of the festivities will move to the city squares of Petra Zoranića and Pet bunara, where the program, featuring concerts by top Croatian musicians, choirs, theater performances, and holiday stalls, will run until January 2.
Iva Bencun, director of the Zadar Tourist Board, shares, "I have previously attended Zadar's Advent, and now I'm excited to be part of the organization. We aim to create a warm, intimate atmosphere while enhancing our program to attract locals and visitors alike."
Last year, Advent saw a 12% increase in tourist arrivals and overnight stays compared to the previous year, with nearly 20,000 tourists, 55% of whom were foreign. "We expect this positive trend to continue through the end of the year," Bencun adds.
This year's Advent will feature nearly six weeks of festive events starting on November 24 with Mladen Grdović. Subsequent weekends will host performances by groups like Cambi, Neno Belan, and more, alongside daily programs with various acts and activities for all ages.
Santa Claus will visit Zadar on December 24, with events leading up to his arrival, including the Zadar Christmas Run on December 21. New Year's Eve celebrations will take place at two outdoor locations, Narodni trg and Trg Petra Zoranića.
Most concerts will be held at Trg Petra Zoranića, where holiday stalls will offer delicious local cuisine and traditional delicacies. The Zadar Market will ensure everything runs smoothly.
Advent in Zadar is organized by the City of Zadar, the Zadar Tourist Board, and the Zadar Market, in collaboration with local chambers of commerce and hospitality associations.