Destinations

Five Reasons to Fall in Love with Advent in Poreč

11.12.2025

4 min

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Poreč once again turned into a winter fairytale, and Advent 2025 could well be its most magical edition so far. From free family fun to major concerts, authentic Istrian traditions, and two spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations, there’s a reason everyone is talking about Advent in Poreč. Actually, there are five.

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Below are the top experiences you absolutely shouldn’t miss on the 10th Advent in Poreč!

Festive Lights Switch-on: The Beginning of a Holiday Fairy-Tale

The magic began on 6 December when thousands of lights turned Poreč into a glowing Christmas postcard. Saint Nicholas himself arrived to greet kids, kick off the holiday season, and officially open Advent.

A person dressed as Saint Nicolas interacts playfully with another person dressed as a Krampus, a devil with red horns and a cape.

Holiday characters come to life at Advent in Poreč! A playful showdown between Saint Nicolas and a Krampus, a mythical creature who punishes naughty children.

Free Skating Rink – An Essential Winter Experience

The holiday season isn’t complete without ice skating – and in Poreč, it’s completely free. Whether you’re coming with kids, friends, or enjoying a romantic evening, the rink is the perfect way to get into the festive spirit. On top of that, skate hire is completely free, and children can also enjoy rides on the Advent train at no extra cost.

People of various ages are ice skating inside a festive indoor rink.

Winter fun at Advent in Poreč! Families and friends glide across a holiday-themed ice rink filled with colourful decorations and joyful energy.

The skating rink is open every day from 10:00 – 22:00. Let the party on ice begin!

This is not just a quick stop – it’s where memories are made, whether you’re taking your first glide or showing off your spins.

A small blue and white holiday train decorated with Christmas lights, at Advent in Poreč.

Advent in Poreč brings winter magic to the streets with a completely free holiday train.

Two Squares: Two Spectacular New Year’s Eve Celebrations for 2026

An aerial night view of a large crowd filling a town square for an outdoor holiday event, surrounded by historic buildings of Poreč and illuminated Christmas trees.

A spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration in Poreč! Thousands gather in the town square for a festive night of music, lights, and holiday celebration.

This year, Poreč is offering double celebrations in the heart of the city:

Trg slobode: Toni Cetinski, one of Croatia’s most popular pop singers, known for his powerful live performances.
Trg Matije Gupca: Miach & Kids from the Sky, a rising Croatian urban-pop star and an energetic band that guarantees a modern, dance-filled New Year’s Eve.

Two stages, two musical styles, two unforgettable atmospheres. Couples, groups, families – everyone gets their perfect party. And for the smallest visitors? A special children’s countdown at noon, complete with fireworks, music, and sparkling excitement, because midnight is overrated when you’re eight.

Authentic Istria: Live Nativity Scene & Istrian Supa Competition

Advent in Poreč goes beyond lights and concerts: it brings local traditions to life. So get ready for live nativity scenes, the legendary Istrian supa competition and winter flavours, mulled wine, and artisanal delicacies. If you’re searching for an authentic winter experience with real local character, this is it.

More Than 100 Events: Something Happening Every Single Day!

If you’ve ever said, “There’s nothing to do in winter,” Poreč is here to prove you wrong. Poreč is making sure there’s never a quiet night during Advent. More than 100 events will take over the old town and festive squares: concerts by top names, stand-up comedy nights (Sundays), Pub quizzes, and DJ programs in historic streets and bars.

A large crowd gathers outdoors at night under trees decorated with string lights, watching a popular Croatian singer in a white coat perform on stage during the opening concert of Advent in Poreč.

The Advent in Poreč festivities begin in style! Crowds pack the square for the opening concert by a popular Croatian singer.

Don’t forget the winter magic with Santa Claus and free photographs with your kids every day at 17:00. Take your little ones to Santa Claus’ cottage or to one of the children’s shows and workshops, which will take them into a world of imagination and joy.

Be sure to stop at Advent in Poreč’s photo point for the perfect festive snap. Capture the moment and take the best memories home with you.

A person stands smiling inside a large festive photo frame decorated with Christmas symbols and the sign “10 Advent Poreč”.

Capturing the holiday spirit at the 10th Advent in Poreč!

Poreč Advent: More Than a Stop

A festive outdoor Christmas market at night, seen from above, with decorated trees, illuminated archways, food stalls, and crowds of people walking among holiday lights and displays.

A magical winter scene at Advent in Poreč: from twinkling lights and snowy trees to cosy food stalls and festive music.

From family days to late-night music, every corner of the city will be buzzing. Weekend visit? Perfect. Weekday visit? Also perfect.

Book your accommodation in Poreč, with a variety of Valamar hotel options to choose from, and arrive ready to stay longer than you expected. Because here’s the truth: Advent in Poreč isn’t something you pass through – it’s somewhere you stay.

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Morena Milevoj

How can we capture all those emotions and everything that happens at our destinations and Valamar’s properties? We’ve found a way. Through our Destination Insider - Morena Milevoj, passionate about marketing, communications, and content, in love with Istria, the Adriatic Sea, and travel, has combined her experience, passion, and knowledge of destination management and the world of social media to give you a first-hand look at everything awaiting you at our destinations.