Iron Maiden, Nick Cave, Sting: Pula Arena targets big concert season
- by croatiaweek
- in Entertainment
Pula Arena
Iron Maiden, Nick Cave, David Byrne, Sting, One Republic and Carl Cox are among the global names expected to perform at Pula Arena in Croatia next summer.
Following an excellent run of concerts in 2024 at the famous amphitheatre, 2025 year saw a notable decline in major acts at the Arena.
Now, thanks to a new approach under new Mayor Peđa Grbin, the stage is being set for a much stronger 2026.
Central to this shift is the appointment of Goran Mihovilović to the city’s event commission, focusing on revitalising the Arena’s programme.
“There will be more surprises. I must thank the mayor for his support and also Nina Kamber, who carried the story for years on her own. We realised we could do much more, and I believe it will be good,” Mihovilović told istarski.hr.
His first move was to open proactive talks with leading global producers, addressing their concerns and improving conditions for performers.
Among the changes planned is the installation of a fixed stage and roof in the Arena, reducing wear on the historic monument and cutting logistical costs.
This will make Pula more attractive to organisers and allow for a denser concert schedule.
Looking ahead, tenders for 2026 will be launched earlier than before, aligning with international planning cycles.
“Big names make their schedules 14–15 months in advance,” Mihovilović explained. “If we want to attract acts like Coldplay or U2, we must start early. I would not hesitate to host them for multiple nights in a row – it would be extraordinary promotion for Pula.”
His vision extends beyond concerts, with the season potentially running from May through September, boosting the local economy and extending tourism.
MMA will also return to the Arena in September, with discussions already under way with international organisers.
“The Arena is the most special venue in Europe and the world – but only if we believe it,” Mihovilović concluded, emphasising optimism as key to Pula’s cultural and economic growth.
