Events in Croatia You Need to Visit during August and September
6 minCroatia, with its stunning Adriatic coast and rich cultural heritage, is a prime destination for unforgettable events during August and late summer. From film festivals to traditional maritime celebrations, Croatia offers a variety of experiences that cater to diverse interests. Check out some events happening in the coming months that you won’t want to miss!
Rab Film Festival: 23rd – 27th August
Rab Film Festival movie projection
When exploring events in Croatia in August, do check out Rab. From 23rd to 27th of August, the Rab Film Festival (RAFF) is back for its sixth edition, bringing a fantastic lineup of films to the charming town of Rab!
The festival kicks off with Nebojša Slijepčević’s film “The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent”, awarded the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, with Goran Bogdan in the lead role. Also, the festival brings the Croatian premiere of “Les Indésirables” by Ladj Ly, attended by lead actors Alexis Manenti, Anta Diaw and Aristote Luyindula. The movie is a sort of continuation of his film “Les Miserables”, an Oscar nominee and Cannes winner, but also the winner of the first Rab Film Festival.
Rab Film Festival audience
Another highlight is the Croatian premiere of the Danish film “The Promised Land” (also an Oscar nominee) starring Mads Mikkelsen, in cooperation with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Denmark. This year’s RAFF will also feature Croatian filmmakers, including renowned documentary filmmaker Goran Dević.
Besides the impressive film selection, RAFF Beat returns with performances by Zdenka Kovačiček and her band performing on Saturday, 24 August, DJ Maestro who combines jazz, blues and electro music and the Amsterdam-Zagreb band Soul Shadows. With its mix of film and music, RAFF offers a vibrant cultural experience on the scenic island of Rab. It will be great to be on Rab at the end of August!
The Poreč Dolphin: 30th – 31st August
Swimmers in front of Poreč, Istria
The Poreč Dolphin, Croatia’s beloved swimming marathon, transforms into a broader water sports festival this year. Taking place in Poreč on the 30th and 31st of August, the event spans two days at the Valamar Parentino Beach and features a range of activities for all ages.
The Poreč Dolphin continues its long-standing tradition with the 23rd consecutive edition, introducing significant changes and a wealth of new content. This beloved swimming competition, a staple of summer activities in Poreč, is evolving into a festival for all water sports enthusiasts and those simply looking to enjoy the summer fun.
Swimmers of the Poreč Dolphin
Participants can join in various swimming races, including 1500, 3000, and 5000-meter events, as well as a new 500-meter race for less experienced swimmers. Participants can swim in any style and use any swimming aids, such as fins, masks, swim boards, or air mattresses. The registration fee for the swimming marathon is 25 euros. You can register online until August 25th or on the day of the marathon, Saturday 31st August, from 6:15 am to 1:30 pm at the registration desk.
The Poreč Dolphin event
In addition to the central swimming competition, the festival is introducing exciting new events and activities. This year’s program features a water polo tournament with both domestic and international teams, an aquathlon competition and a SUP regatta. On the second day, attendees can look forward to the Cro Cup distance swimming competition, a children’s water polo tournament and free participation in sailing, SUP and cornhole demonstrations. Additionally, a free water park will be available on Parentino beach throughout Saturday.
Organized by the Sports Community of the City of Poreč, the festival aims to promote water sports and healthy living. Whether you’re a competitive swimmer or just looking to enjoy water activities, The Poreč Dolphin offers something for everyone.
Tunalicious Festival Poreč: 9th – 15th September
Tuna-fishing boats
The Tunalicious Festival in Poreč is a celebration of the Adriatic’s finest tuna, combining gastronomy, entertainment and sports. From 9th to 15th September, during its seventh edition, this festival features four main events: Tuna Restaurant Week, Spinnaker Gourmet Stage on September 12th, Tunalicious Street Food Festival, and TunIstra, a big game fishing competition.
The highlight for sports enthusiasts is the TunIstra fishing competition, where international teams compete to catch the largest bluefin tuna, with daily weigh-ins and catch-and-release practices. From September 11 to 14, competing boats will arrive in Poreč to test their limits in the hunt for the “queen of the Adriatic” over three days of fishing. A bluefin tuna catch quota of at least 960 kilograms has been approved for this competition. Each day, the largest tuna caught will be weighed and displayed on the Poreč waterfront, giving visitors the chance to see them up close. Other tuna and fish caught will be released back into the sea following the “catch & release” principle.
Tuna specimen at Tunalicious Festival
During Tuna Restaurant Week, local restaurants offer special menus featuring innovative tuna dishes at promotional prices. The Spinnaker Gourmet Stage, held on 12th September, showcases a gourmet dinner by renowned chefs, focusing on Adriatic tuna paired with fine wines.
Tuna meal at Tunalicious
For street food lovers, the Tunalicious Street Food Festival from 12th to 14th September offers a variety of tuna dishes from food trucks and stalls, accompanied by live music from popular regional bands.
The Tunalicious Festival not only highlights the culinary delights of tuna but also provides entertainment and excitement for all visitors, making it a unique event on the Istrian coast. Be there in September!
The Days in the Vala in Stari Grad Hvar: 19th – 22nd September
Sailboats during The Days in the Vala event
The Days in the Vala festival in Stari Grad on the island of Hvar is a traditional maritime celebration that transforms the bay into a vibrant stage filled with traditional boats. From 19th to 22nd September, visitors can enjoy gastronomic delights, concerts, exhibitions and workshops that celebrate the maritime heritage of the Mediterranean.
This year, the festival partners with the Kingdom of the Netherlands, showcasing Dutch maritime heritage alongside Croatian traditional boats. The event includes sailing and rowing demonstrations, educational programs and the spectacular night parade “Dance of Sails and Lights.”
Sailboats in Hvar port
Cultural programs include concerts, with a highlight performance by Croatian diva Doris Dragović. The festival also features a culinary program promoting “Dalmatinska marenda,” a traditional Dalmatian snack, with local restaurants offering authentic dishes at affordable prices.
The Days in the Vala is an excellent opportunity to experience the authentic maritime culture of the Adriatic, making it a perfect blend of tradition, culture and cuisine.
Enjoy Indian Summer Croatian Events
There is no shortage of events in Croatia in August and September. Croatia’s diverse events offer something for every taste, from film and music on the island of Rab to the water sports festival in Poreč, the gastronomic and fishing extravaganza of Tunalicious and the maritime celebration in Stari Grad on the island of Hvar. These events not only showcase the rich cultural and natural beauty of Croatia but also provide unique experiences that make for unforgettable memories. Enjoy Indian summer in Croatia and explore these events!
