During Friday and Saturday, Novi Vinodolski once again shone as a place where tradition, community, and joy go hand in hand. The event Carnival Nostalgia confirmed that this town, rich in heritage and the warmth of its people, knows how to connect cultural heritage with genuine joy of life. The Carnival Nostalgia program filled the city streets with music, emotions, dance, and moments to remember, even more impressively than last year. Frankopan Square, Vinodol Law Square, and Croatian Defenders’ Promenade transformed into stages of past and present, where carnival customs harmoniously merged with the timeless spirit of the seventies and eighties.

The event began on Friday, July 4th, at 8 PM with an evening dedicated to the Carnival – an intangible cultural heritage of the Republic of Croatia since 2011.

Carnival participants, members of the folklore group KUD “Ilija Dorčić”, the Čakavian Assembly’s department “Novljansko kolo”, and many locals in traditional costumes paraded along the Croatian Defenders’ Promenade greeting domestic and foreign visitors, followed by an authentic performance of customs – singing of the “kolo” dance and the traditional Novi Vinodolski kolo.

The evening brought an emotional and powerful experience reminding everyone of the importance of roots and community. After the traditional part, the celebration continued with the band Misho and Kovači, DJ Boris, and a creative workshop for painting canvas bags, which delighted visitors of all ages.

On Saturday, July 5th, Novi Vinodolski turned into a huge retro dance floor. Two stages, authentic scenery, and attractive vehicles from the Vespa Club Novi Vinodolski and Oldtimer Club Rijeka parked in the city center created an unforgettable atmosphere of the golden disco years. Numerous visitors enjoyed the rich gastronomy offer and fantastic atmosphere enhanced by performances of Disco Magic Band, DJ Luca Montecchi, and David Danijel with his energetic Dance Party. Dancing lasted until late at night, and the city radiated joy, laughter, and music that connects generations.

The beloved Rolly Park returned to Ivan Mažuranić Square, a space for all roller skating enthusiasts. Many visitors – children, youth, and adults – enjoyed free evening skating accompanied by music from past decades and the atmosphere of a true summer retro festival.

The event Carnival Nostalgia was organized by the Tourist Board of Novi Vinodolski, with support from the City of Novi Vinodolski, the Čakavian Assembly Novljansko Kolo, KUD Ilija Dorčić, the Cultural Center, Vespa Club Novi Vinodolski, Oldtimer Club Rijeka, KTD Ivanj, the Kvarner Tourist Board, the Croatian Tourist Board, and many local citizens who contributed their effort and enthusiasm to give a personal touch to the event.

Carnival Nostalgia once again demonstrated how strong the bonds are between tradition, community, and modern entertainment. Music, dance, customs, and the spirit of togetherness transformed Novi Vinodolski into a stage of hearts and memories.

“Until we meet again – because memories remain, and the fun continues!” say the Tourist Board of Novi Vinodolski, sincerely thanking all visitors, guests, and participants who made Carnival Nostalgia unforgettable with their presence, smiles, and good vibes.