World’s top stunt performers coming to Croatia for unique festival

Karlovac is gearing up to become the most action-packed stage in Croatia as the STUNT Festival returns for its second year – and it’s bigger and bolder than ever.

This unique festival of stunt performance brings together professional stunt teams from across the globe for a weekend full of adrenaline, spectacle, and family-friendly fun.

Expect high-speed car chases, daring high falls, fire stunts and live-action combat scenes, all just metres from the audience.

What to Expect

The festival kicks off in dramatic style with a street chase through the centre of Karlovac – think Hollywood action scenes, but with a Croatian twist. Leading the action is a veteran stunt team headed by Goran Stjepanović.

Among the performers is Matija Podhraški, who holds the European record for the longest motorcycle ride on his head, as well as French stunt artists performing breathtaking jumps – some of which festivalgoers will even get the chance to try themselves in a safe format.

From Italy, Ivan Forlani, a Guinness World Record holder known for his flaming body relay (seen in The Matrix Resurrections), will also take part. He’s joined by Carl Stück, a three-time Taurus World Stunt Award winner.

More Than Just Stunts

The festival is more than just non-stop action. Visitors can enjoy workshops, panels, historical reenactments, and displays featuring Roman gladiators, film makeup, and special effects.

The world’s largest stunt school will also be showing off their skills in a special performance.

On Saturday, the action moves to Stari grad Novigrad na Dobri, where guests can witness epic siege, escape and battle scenes in a stunning medieval setting.

For those curious about how fight scenes are crafted for the big screen, international stuntman and choreographer Simone Belli – known for his work with Jean-Claude Van Damme – will host a masterclass. Simone also holds a Guinness World Record for the fastest flaming relay.

The festival wraps up with the Pegaz Awards, honouring the best stunt performances in both male and female categories.

For more information and the full programme, visit stunt-festival.com.

PHOTOS: Demjan Rožman/Dinko Neskusil