Vinkovci announces programme for 61st Vinkovačke Jeseni Festival

(Photo: Vinkovačke Jeseni)

VINKOVCI, 15 June 2026 – The programme for the 61st edition of Vinkovačke Jeseni, one of Croatia’s most significant traditional folklore festivals, has been officially unveiled.

The event will take place in the eastern Croatian city of Vinkovci from 11 to 20 September under the theme “Train of the Slavonian Plains” (Vlak slavonske ravnice), bringing together folklore, culture, music and heritage celebrations over ten days.

Presenting the programme, Vinkovci Mayor Josip Romić said the city would once again become a centre of tradition, culture and community spirit, highlighting the importance of preserving the region’s rich heritage.

The festival will open on 11 September with a performance by Vinkovci-born singer Jakov Jozinović, followed by a concert by Jelena Rozga.

This year’s entertainment programme will feature performers including Luka Bulić, Željko Barba and Đeram, Vranci, Sinovi ravnice, Slavonske lole, Mate Bulić, Štef, Vojko V and Peki. One of the highlights will be the Slavonska Rapsodija concert, which will bring together 100 tamburica musicians in Vinkovci for the first time.

The festival will conclude with a performance by Tony Cetinski.

Alongside the music programme, folklore remains at the heart of Vinkovačke Jeseni. The event will begin with Folklore Evenings and the County Folklore Review, followed by a series of traditional performances throughout the festival.

The first weekend will be dedicated to children and will include the 23rd Croatian Children’s Folklore Festival, being held as part of Vinkovačke Jeseni for the first time. Children’s folklore groups and young horse riders will parade through the city on 13 September.

The second weekend will feature the National Review of Authentic Croatian Folklore, while the traditional grand parade of participants, horse-drawn carriages and riders will take place on the festival’s closing Sunday.

Martina Kelava, President of the Cultural and Artistic Activities Association of Vukovar-Srijem County, said Vinkovci has served as a meeting place for people from different regions for more than six decades and continues to showcase traditional culture as an important part of Croatian identity.

(Photo: Vinkovačke Jeseni)

The theme of this year’s festival was presented by writer and opening ceremony director Marko Sabljaković, who explained that it symbolises the movement of people from various parts of Croatia and neighbouring regions who settled in Slavonia in search of new opportunities and a better future.

According to organisers, the theme also highlights the importance of Slavonia, Srijem and Baranja, while emphasising the preservation of identity, customs and a sense of belonging.

The official opening ceremony of the 61st Vinkovačke Jeseni will be held on 18 September on the main stage, with auditions for the cast due to be announced soon.

Organisers are also inviting applications for the rental of festival stalls and public booths. Applications are open until 24 June and are available to registered businesses and individuals operating in Croatia.

(Photo: Vinkovačke Jeseni)

For more than six decades, Vinkovačke Jeseni has attracted participants and visitors from across Croatia and abroad, celebrating the customs, music and traditions that continue to shape the country’s cultural identity.