Novi Vinodolski – a stunning Kvarner destination, the cradle of Croatian law and one of the most devoted guardians of Croatian tradition and history. Preserved historical remnants, rich cultural and natural heritage, tradition, and kilometers of scenic trails along the coast and inland, combined with attractive beaches and crystal-clear sea – all form the perfect invitation to enjoy your holiday in Novi Vinodolski.

In addition to its natural and cultural beauty, Novi Vinodolski hosts numerous cultural, entertainment, sports, children’s, gastronomic, and traditional events throughout the year. One of the most important and recognizable among them is Ružica Vinodola, a manifestation that dates back to 1880.

There is a story, passed down through oral tradition, that originates in Novi Vinodolski and the wider Vinodol region. It tells of a custom from centuries ago, during the time of the noble Croatian Frankopan family – the tradition of selecting the “Ružica of Vinodol,” the most skilled and hardworking young woman during the grape harvest. At the time, harvesting grapes was a festive event and a unique experience in Novi and the surrounding Vinodol villages. At the end of the harvest, which usually lasted a day or longer for bigger vineyard owners, one of the women would cut a vine with three bunches of grapes and crown the most diligent girl with it – she was named “Ružica.” The most beautiful among a group of about thirty young women would become the Ružica. Each Ružica led a procession of harvesters dressed in traditional folk costumes, adorned with grapevines. She carried in her hand a “skočac” – a vine branch with the most beautiful grapes. Along the way, traditional Novljan songs were sung, accompanied by instruments like sopile, fidulice, mišac, and even old gusle. Among all the Ružicas, the young men would then choose the fairest and most skilled to be crowned Ružica Vinodola. Folklore tells us that the last such selection happened in 1880.

Inspired by this story, the event was revived in 2004 as Ružica Vinodola – a vibrant journey through tradition, flavor, and music. Each year in the second half of August, twelve girls compete over three days in nine traditional challenges related to winemaking, vineyard work, homekeeping, and wine serving, all for the prestigious title of Ružica Vinodola. The event also includes displays of old crafts, a market of handmade products and souvenirs, local delicacies, a rich musical program, gourmet areas, and a wine festival.

This year, Ružica Vinodola celebrates its grand 20th anniversary from August 22nd to 25th. The competitive part of the program will take on a more ceremonial and exhibition-style tone, featuring all those who have contributed to the event over the past two decades, as well as former Ružica winners who will compete once again on August 22nd in Pavlomir and August 23rd in Bribir. The most skillful will receive exciting prizes. Saturday, August 24th, is reserved for a special exhibition-style competition involving media and tourism professionals – including some familiar faces. The musical program across the four days features Klapa Kampanel, B Band, Damir Kedžo, Insula, Berekini, DJ Saša Šoštarić, Dellboysi, and Trend, while the culinary highlight on Saturday will be prepared by Antonija Mikac Tonka, a MasterChef contestant who will create a new dish using traditional ingredients, perfectly paired with Ružica Vinodola – the rosé wine from the Pavlomir winery, ideal for warm summer days.

Firmly rooted in wine traditions and customs, this year’s third Wine Festival will feature not only wines from the Kvarner region but from across Croatia. Exhibitors will present their finest wines and offer visitors the chance to expand their wine horizons and experience the richness of Croatian wine heritage in Novi Vinodolski. In collaboration with the Kvarner Wines Association, the local Tourist Board is organizing a mini wine festival from August 23rd to 25th, showcasing wines from Slavonia, Međimurje, Pokuplje, Moslavina, Istria, Dalmatia, and all ten Kvarner wineries – with Pavlomir as the event host. This is true proof of how wine and tradition are celebrated in Kvarner.

Children will enjoy the historically inspired atmosphere through puppet making, old-fashioned games, a wooden carousel with baskets, and fun face-painting stations. As a memorable keepsake, everyone can print their own design on a cloth bag to take home. The flower shop Zola will make traditional flower crowns to help revive the spirit of the past and the tradition of the Ružica.

Charming games, the rhythm of local music, and the magical ambiance of vineyards, the old town, and the city center all come together to create a truly unique atmosphere you simply must experience. We invite you to become part of Ružica Vinodola, one of Croatia’s most celebrated wine events.

“The program has already been fully announced, so I won’t highlight anything further. I would just like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who made it possible for this legend from the past to come alive – and to those who have kept it going for 20 years now. I won’t name names because I don’t want to forget anyone, but we will certainly express our gratitude through thank-you notes to everyone involved throughout the years. I believe this is our signature event, and we’ll continue to work hard to attract more visitors and make it one of the key reasons for visiting our beautiful destination. To spark interest among our guests, we have placed images of past winners throughout the town at the start of August, each with a QR code where visitors can learn more about the event – it’s wonderful to see people stopping, taking pictures, and showing interest. I’m especially proud that through my role I’ve had the chance to help organize such an important event and that I’ll take part in this year’s competition again as the 2011 winner. It was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life,” said Tena Peričić, Director of the Novi Vinodolski Tourist Board.

Ružica Vinodola awaits you with open arms – ready to enchant you and offer an unforgettable experience!

Organizers: Tourist Board of the City of Novi Vinodolski and Tourist Board of the Municipality of Vinodolska, with the support of the Kvarner Tourist Board and the Croatian National Tourist Board.
Co-organizers: City of Novi Vinodolski, Municipality of Vinodolska, Pavlomir Winery, Ružica Vinodola Association, Kvarner Wines Association, and the Cultural Center of Novi Vinodolski.
Sponsors: Arctic, Jamnica, Katarina Line, Marina Novi, Marengo Restaurant, API Kvarner, Primus Physio, Studio Moni, Flower Atelier Zola, Beauty Center Glamour.