In the heart of the wine-rich Vinodol region, in Novi Vinodolski, the beloved Wine Rose od Vinodol festival will once again come to life – a celebration that has, for over two decades, honored the beauty, diligence, and rich winemaking traditions of this area. From August 21st to 23rd, this unique event will transform the town into a vibrant meeting place of tradition, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences – filled with the aroma of wine and the charm of young women who, through laughter, effort, and customs, bring to life the centuries-old legend of The Wine Rose of Vinodol.

Inspired by a true custom from the time of the Frankopan noble family – when the most diligent and beautiful grape harvester, the “Ružica,”  (Wine Rose) was chosen at the end of harvest – this modern-day festival gathers young women who compete for the same title over three spectacular days, through nine themed challenges. The competitions are designed to reflect various skills – from vineyard know-how and household tasks to wine pouring and presentation.

The three-day event opens with a prologue on Saturday, August 16th, in Bribir, where this year’s contestants will be introduced to the public. The evening will also feature the bribir macaroni festival, along with performances by the bands Insula and Tedi Spalato.

Following the introduction in Bribir, the main competition begins on Thursday, August 21st, at the vineyards of Pavlomir Winery, where the girls will demonstrate their vineyard skills. The evening will be hosted by the popular duo Irena Grdinić and Robert Ferlin, while the musical atmosphere will be brought to life by Bosutski Bećari and Trio Nebuloza. Visitors can look forward to delicious local food and a magical atmosphere under the stars among the vines.

On Friday, the festival moves to the Old Town of Novi Vinodolski, where the contestants will take on household-themed challenges, accompanied by the music of Trio Nebuloza. Meanwhile, the band Insula will entertain visitors on the Croatian Defenders Promenade.

The grand finale takes place on Saturday, August 23rd, again in the Old Town. The contestants, accompanied by Trio Nebuloza, will face their final challenges – pouring and presenting wine – culminating in the crowning of The Wine Rose of Vinodola 2025. At around 11:00 PM, on the Croatian Defenders Promenade, the winner will be announced along with the first and second runners-up and the most charming contestant, as voted by both the participants and the official jury. The winners will receive valuable prizes, while the 2025 Wine Rose of Vinodol will also win a cruise for two on the Adriatic Sea. The evening’s music will be provided by Antonio Krištofić and his band.

Behind all the excitement of the competition lies another story – the story of wine. On Friday and Saturday, the Frankopan Square will host a Wine Festival, an essential stop for all wine lovers. In addition to Kvarner winemakers, producers from other parts of Croatia and Serbia will also be presenting their wines, offering a rich variety of flavors, aromas, and styles. The festival is a perfect opportunity to taste top-quality wines and discover new wine stories.

On the Vinodol Law Square, visitors can explore a presentation of traditional crafts and a fair featuring local handmade products. Floral wreaths – inspired by those once worn by the Wine Roses – will also be available for purchase, giving guests the chance to become part of this special story.

Saturday will also bring a culinary highlight – Novljanski Pijat, a local fish dish prepared with fresh regional ingredients, courtesy of chef Antonija Mikac.

The Wine Rose of Vinodol brings the spirit of Vinodol to life in a truly special way – through games, scents, crafts, and flavors, but above all through love for heritage. Along with engaging events, local delicacies, and wine delights, you’ll find an authentic atmosphere that lingers in your memory.

The Wine Rose of Vinodol is more than just a festival – it’s a vivid journey through time, emotion, and tradition. It awaits you with open arms, ready to enchant and provide an unforgettable experience. See you in Novi Vinodolski – where the legend lives on!

The Wine Rose of Vinodol festival is organized by the Tourist Board of the City of Novi Vinodolski and the Tourist Board of the Vinodol Municipality, in cooperation with the City of Novi Vinodolski, the Municipality of Vinodol, the Cultural Center of Novi Vinodolski, Pavlomir Winery, the Association of Friends of Grapes and Wine “Rose of Vinodol,” the Kvarner Wine Association, the Cultural and Artistic Society Ilija Dorčić, and the Čakavian Assembly’s Novljansko Kolo Chapter. The festival is supported by the Kvarner Tourist Board and the Croatian National Tourist Board, with sponsors including Katarina Line Travel Agency, Adria Mare Travel Agency, Health and Joy Salon, Bartelo Mali, API Kvarner, Leut Souvenir Gallery, Floral Atelier “Zola,” and Pavlomir Winery.