On Monday, July 31, the first edition of the Dreams of Vinodolski event took place. The Knez Branimir waterfront (Pod barana) was filled with visitors who soaked in the charm of a special summer evening!

This year, Novi Vinodolski is celebrating 145 years of tourism. That long tradition is not just a solid foundation—it’s a limitless source of inspiration, as the destination continues to surprise with its offerings. On one hand, it enriches the Kvarner region for locals, and on the other, it creates compelling events that offer guests unforgettable experiences and great reasons to return!

Dreams of Vinodolski kicked off with a fashion show of Croatian designers. The runway featured Krie design, Stehlik by Anja Stehlik, Peperoncina Design, and Miau Couture. Jewelry was presented by Drveni Val and Infinity Design, who also showcased stunning floral crowns. Boom Design Poreč offered perfect summer bags inscribed with Dreams of Vinodolski. The models—young girls—wore Tanya Bracelets, and complementary accessories came from ZTC Rijeka. The backstage was hosted at Marina Novi, hairstyles were created by My Way hair salon, and gifts for participants were provided by Adrialab, Delmerion, and Tany bBracelets.

What made the event truly special were the models—real women—moms and daughters, friends—who volunteered to walk the runway and immerse themselves in a new experience. The audience cheered and applauded them as “models for a day.”

But the event offered so much more than fashion. “Magic in the details that make a difference” brought the most beautiful photo corner to life. Adventures of the Little Eyes and face painting provided children with unforgettable memories. After the show, a dance workshop with dance virtuoso Elio Bašan kept the festive spirit alive—tourists joined in spontaneously, full of enthusiasm! Delicious food, drinks, local producers’ stalls, and music by Glamour House Project and Dinamika heightened the enchanting evening along the Kvarner coast.

Marija Mažar shared: “Although I live in Rijeka and visit Novi Vinodolski often, I keep discovering new beauties, details, hidden corners. While the charming hinterland embraces this special town, the coast is everything it should be—beautiful and inspiring. That’s exactly how this event felt—it gave everyone a few hours of joy and dreaming.”

Sailing Club Burin crafted a special maritime scenography. Under the starry sky and full moon, senses fully alive, Novi Vinodolski showed everyone how the most beautiful dreams are dreamt with eyes open. One of the most memorable events of the summer revealed Novi Vinodolski in a new light. It was pure magic!

The final walk-down paid tribute to the renowned Ružica Vinodola festival—models handed out roses, and in August, Novi Vinodolski will gift visitors with a new experience of that iconic event. Be sure to mark it in your calendars!

Tena Peričić, director of the Novi Vinodolski Tourist Board, concluded: “I am happy and proud of this new event we realized. We utilized the beautiful setting of Pod barana in the best possible way, and I think it was a full success that will become a tradition. The blend of fashion, culinary offerings, children’s programs, dance, and beautiful handmade crafts attracted a large audience and once again proved that seaside experiences are well received and well attended. From the bottom of my heart, thanks to dear Marija Mažar, an excellent collaborator and co‑organizer, and to everyone whose presence and participation enriched this beautiful story.”