Croatian kids in New York prepare to welcome the Vatreni to America

(Photo: Emily Erceg)

NEW YORK – The Croatian community in New York is proudly preserving its heritage while preparing to welcome Croatia’s national football team, the Vatreni, during their visit to the United States.

At the heart of this vibrant diaspora community is the Croatian Parish of Saints Cyril and Methodius and St Raphael in Manhattan, one of the largest and oldest Croatian parishes in America. For decades it has served as a gathering place for Croats from across the east coast, who come together each Sunday to celebrate Mass in the Croatian language and reconnect with their cultural roots.

Following Mass, parishioners gather to socialise, share memories of their homeland and maintain strong ties with Croatia.

The parish is run by Croatian Franciscans based in Chicago and belongs to the Herzegovinian Franciscan Province of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Preserving Croatian identity abroad

Determined to preserve their rich cultural traditions and ensure younger generations remain connected to their heritage, members of the community established the Cardinal Alojzije Stepinac Croatian School and the Cardinal Alojzije Stepinac Folklore Group in 1971.

The school’s primary mission is to teach children the Croatian language, history and culture. Through weekly classes, students also learn traditional Croatian songs, dances and poetry.

Children regularly perform in front of the Croatian community at parish events, where they demonstrate their language skills and cultural knowledge. These performances are warmly attended and offer young participants the chance to showcase what they have learned.

Among the most anticipated events of the year are the Christmas programme and the Mother’s Day celebration, when the children perform songs, recite poetry and present folklore dances in Croatian.

Classes are held every Friday evening from early September until the end of May. Maintaining the programme requires considerable dedication from teachers, parents and volunteers who work together to ensure Croatian heritage remains alive among the younger generation.

For many families, the school has become a cornerstone of identity. Through its programmes, children not only learn the language but also develop a deep connection with Croatia and its traditions.

Parents say the experience leaves a lasting impression. Many young Croatian Americans who have passed through the school carry with them a strong sense of pride in their roots and a love for the country of their ancestors.

As Croatia’s national team prepares to visit the United States, the Croatian community in New York, especially its youngest members, is eagerly looking forward to welcoming the Vatreni.

For these children, raised thousands of kilometres from Croatia but deeply connected to its culture, cheering for the national team represents a powerful link between their present lives in America and their heritage.

The message from New York’s Croatian community is simple and heartfelt: good luck to our Vatreni.

Text: Ane Mljećke – Ane Strazicic Rodriguez.