Vukovar to host “SVI zaJEDNO HRVATSKO NAJ” festival showcasing Croatia’s heritage

Photos: V.Barić, V.Čuljak

The eighth edition of the “SVI zaJEDNO HRVATSKO NAJ” festival will take place in Vukovar from 1 to 3 May, bringing together the very best of Croatia’s intangible cultural heritage, tourism offerings and traditions.

Over three days, the city of Vukovar will transform into a vibrant cultural hub, hosting thousands of visitors from across Croatia and the diaspora. Events will be held at several prominent locations throughout the city, showcasing the richness and diversity of the country’s heritage.

Organisers say the festival continues to position Vukovar as a place of connection, tradition and positive energy.

“We are proud that our city brings together participants from all parts of Croatia and beyond, promoting the authenticity and diversity of our heritage through a rich and varied programme,” said Marina Sekulić, Director of the Vukovar Tourist Board.

Visitors can expect a wide-ranging programme. The BAŠTINA.HR segment will highlight protected cultural heritage, while folklore performances by cultural and artistic societies and vocal groups will take centre stage throughout the festival.

Food and wine will also play a key role, with eno-gastronomic presentations offering traditional dishes from different regions of Croatia, alongside tastings of high-quality local wines. An eco-ethno fair will feature authentic domestic products.

One of this year’s highlights is the first-ever majorette gathering in Vukovar, bringing together groups from across the country, including Sinj, Rijeka, Karlovac, Bjelovar and beyond. Ahead of the official opening on 1 May, majorettes will parade through the city from Eltz Castle to Republic of Croatia Square, where they will perform.

The festival also caters for families, with children’s programmes, creative workshops, theatre performances and street entertainers. The popular “Vukovar Pleše” programme will once again turn the main square into a large open-air dance floor, while live music and evening concerts featuring well-known Croatian performers will take place across all three days.

A special moment of this year’s festival will be the patriotic concert “Glasovi sjećanja” on 2 May, marking the 35th anniversary of the deaths of 12 Croatian police officers in Borovo Selo. The concert will feature performances of patriotic songs by finalists from The Voice Kids Croatia.

The festival is organised by the City of Vukovar and the Vukovar Tourist Board, with the creative concept led by Hrvatska kuća Materina priča. Financial support comes from national and regional tourism bodies.

Recognised internationally, the festival has received the EFFE Label, a European quality mark for outstanding cultural festivals, as well as the “Simply the Best” tourism award, further cementing its status as one of Croatia’s leading cultural events.