As early as last week, Novi Advent brought that special festive feeling of joy and warmth into the hearts of visitors – a feeling that reminds us the most beautiful days of the year are just ahead. Laughter, music, ice skating, creative workshops, concerts and a variety of events filled Novi Vinodolski, creating a unique atmosphere that reflects the magic of this season every day. On Friday, 19 December, the Advent programme at the Winter Magic of the Frankopans ice rink continued, delighting entire families. The youngest visitors were welcomed by Santa Claus and took part in the interactive animation programme “Toy Factory”. With animation, face painting, themed gifts, a DJ and free skating, Frankopan Square turned into a true Santa’s playground. The programme continued on Saturday, when the atmosphere was further enlivened by stand-up comedians Tomislav Primorac and Josip Škiljo from the Split scene, while the rhythms of Trio Marinera made the square even livelier. On the same day, the skating school began and will run until 27 December, free of charge for all registered children. The Advent magic was joined by Ivan Mažuranić Primary School, which delighted visitors yesterday with a Christmas quiz, a festive performance and an attractive fair of creative works by students and teachers held in the school courtyard.

We have entered the most beautiful Advent week – the week when Advent comes to an end and the Christmas season begins. Numerous events await visitors, all designed to awaken the true festive spirit.

On Tuesday, 23 December, a Christmas concert by the Novi Children’s Choir and music school students will take place at the National Reading Room and Library, starting at 5:00 PM.

On Christmas Eve, the Friends of Grapes and Wine Association Ružica Vinodola will traditionally serve fried sardines and wine on Frankopan Square from 10:00 AM. In case of bad weather, the event will be held in front of the entrance to the Novi Vinodolski marketplace.

This year’s Advent also brings two Christmas concerts by Jose Butorac – on Christmas Day after the morning Holy Mass at the Church of St Margaret in Klenovica, and on 26 December after the 6:00 PM Holy Mass at the Church of St Philip and James in Novi Vinodolski.

The programme at the Winter Magic of the Frankopans ice rink continues on 27 December at 7:00 PM, when visitors will be entertained by the Reaktiva cover band and DJ Saša Šostarić. Please note that skating is free throughout the entire Advent period, and the ice rink will be open daily until 11 January 2026.

Two PAŠTAda workshops are also coming up, both of which were in such high demand that they filled up in record time. On Monday, 29 December at 7:00 PM, the popular New Year’s Quiz will be held at the Cultural Centre. Registrations are still open via email at info@nmig.hr, with an entry fee of 10 euros.

The last day of the year in Novi Vinodolski brings the traditional New Year’s Toast, starting at 10:00 AM. As usual, two hunting associations will prepare traditional game specialities – game stew and sausages – while the Ružica Vinodola Association will offer red and white mulled wine. Mugs allowing unlimited mulled wine consumption, along with one meal at the hunters’ stands, will be available for purchase at the Ružica Vinodola stalls in the city centre at a symbolic price of 10 euros. A children’s corner will be organised for the youngest visitors, featuring animation, face painting, mascots, free skating, doughnuts and juices provided by the Novi Vinodolski Pensioners’ Association. Live music by the bands Trend and Face will entertain visitors at Ivan Mažuranić Square until 4:00 PM, while Trio Family will perform on the stage at Vinodol Law Square.

With a rich programme, music, tradition and a warm winter atmosphere, we invite you to celebrate the holidays with us and once again make Advent in Novi Vinodolski truly unforgettable.