PHOTOS: Impressive Advent in Osijek opens

by croatiaweek
December 1, 2025
in Entertainment

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Advent in Osijek officially opened on the weekend on the historic Trinity Square in Tvrđa, ushering in a month of festivities that will take place in the city until 31 December.

The event, now firmly established as one of the most visited winter attractions in Slavonia and Baranja, promises lights, music, seasonal flavours, and activities for all generations.

Speaking at the opening, Osijek’s Deputy Mayor Dragan Vulin emphasised the spirit of togetherness the festive season brings and invited locals and visitors from across Croatia and abroad to experience the city at its most enchanting.

“I am delighted that we once again have a fully organised Advent here in Tvrđa for our citizens and many guests. I invite everyone to enjoy Osijek’s Advent, its rich food and drink offerings, and the festive atmosphere, with the well-known Dome of Good Wishes now even more beautifully decorated than last year,” Vulin said.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

He highlighted the city’s positive tourism trends, noting a 6% rise in arrivals and a 14% increase in overnight stays between January and October compared with the same period last year.

“I believe Advent will boost these numbers even further,” he added, while also urging visitors to prioritise safety during the holidays by avoiding pyrotechnics.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Tajana Rogulja, Director of the Osijek Tourist Board, noted that Advent in recent years has evolved into a unique Christmas experience spread across several city locations. Trinity Square now hosts 25 festive stalls, including 14 dedicated to food and drink, while the others showcase local artisans.

The popular Dome of Good Wishes returns as a highlight, allowing visitors to send Christmas postcards worldwide free of charge.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Families will find plenty to enjoy. The Archaeological Museum will host daily Christmas workshops for children until 21 December, and the large amusement park in King Držislav Park is back, featuring Croatia’s tallest panoramic wheel at 35 metres.

Traditional Advent features also return, including the weekly lighting of Advent candles outside the co-cathedral of St Peter and St Paul, the Sokol ice rink, Osijek’s festive tram, and a lively music programme on the Tvrđa stage.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

The opening was headlined by Danijela Martinović, with a full line-up of performers scheduled throughout December, including Teška industrija, Baruni, Jole, Matija Cvek, Slavonske lole, Giuliano and many others.