On December 31, the centre of Novi Vinodolski was once again filled with joy, positive energy and great vibes. Around six thousand locals, guests and tourists gathered at the 13th edition of the traditional New Year’s Toast at Noon, including ten buses of organised visitors from Croatia and abroad, to raise a glass together to welcome 2026. Once again, the event confirmed that Novi Vinodolski knows how to make the end of the year truly special and unforgettable.

The rich programme started as early as 10:00 a.m. and continued until late afternoon, offering something for all generations. The town squares turned into lively entertainment hubs – on Ivan Mažuranić Square, the bands Trend and Face created an excellent atmosphere with their energetic performances, while Trio Family got the crowd dancing on Vinodolski zakon Square.

To make sure no one went hungry or thirsty, local caterers operated three Advent stalls offering a wide selection of delicacies, sweets and drinks. The gastronomic offer also included hunting specialties – venison goulash and sausages – prepared by the hunting associations Košutnjak – Novi and Gradina, while the Ružica Vinodola association kept visitors warm with mulled wine. As in previous years, a special New Year’s package was available for €10.00, including a mug with a coupon for unlimited consumption of red and white mulled wine and one hunting specialty.

Great excitement also filled the children’s corner at Frankopan Square, where the youngest visitors enjoyed free ice skating, an animation programme with the creation of time capsules containing New Year wishes, face painting, and the popular mascots Stitch and Angel. The sweet part of the programme was provided by members of the Novi Vinodolski Pensioners’ Association, who distributed doughnuts and juices, while two photo corners allowed visitors to capture the most beautiful moments of the event and take home lasting memories.

The most ceremonial part followed – the official countdown and New Year’s toast. The afternoon celebration on Ivan Mažuranić Square took place with special effects and warm wishes delivered by the Mayor of Novi Vinodolski, Mr Tomislav Cvitković.

Once again, the New Year’s Toast at Noon demonstrated how tradition, entertainment and togetherness can be perfectly combined, offering an ideal farewell to the old year and a joyful welcome to the new one. Together with the Novi Advent event, Novi Vinodolski enjoyed a December full of cheer, and Novi Advent once again ranked among the top five Advent events in the small towns category according to the portal gradonačelnik.hr.

With best wishes for a happy and successful New Year, Novi Vinodolski sends a message – see you soon at new and exciting events.