Zelina’s popular chestnut festival set to take place again
- by croatiaweek
- in Entertainment
(Photo: Turistička zajednica grada Svetog Ivana Zeline)
Sveti Ivan Zelina, just 40 kilometres northeast of Zagreb, is preparing for a weekend of autumn charm as the 27th Zelina Chestnut Festival (Zelinska kestenijada) takes place on 18 and 19 October on the scenic Kladeščica Peak.
This year’s celebration comes with international acclaim with the festival has been named among the Top 100 Stories by Green Destinations 2025 at the global conference in Montpellier, France.
“The award confirms our commitment to sustainable tourism and recognises Zelina’s Chestnut Festival as an example of best practice,” said Marinka Zubčić Mubrin, Director of the Sveti Ivan Zelina Tourist Board.
Saturday’s programme, under the motto “Don’t be ‘tree-headed’”, invites visitors to a guided 6-kilometre hike to Kladeščica with fitness coach Mario Valentić and the hiking club Izvor.
(Photo: Turistička zajednica grada Svetog Ivana Zeline)
The walk combines light exercise, breathing techniques and an eco-clean-up action, rewarding participants with a free lunch and Valentić’s nutritious Chestnut Smoothie.
Sunday brings a full-day celebration from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., transforming the mountain into a vibrant open-air fair.
Expect roasted chestnuts, local delicacies, craft beer, Zelina wines, and live music, alongside a mushroom exhibition by the local Amanita Association.
Children can join “Games Without Screens” from 12 to 2 p.m., enjoying outdoor fun such as ring toss, tug-of-war and creative workshops.
(Photo: Turistička zajednica grada Svetog Ivana Zeline)
Meanwhile, the LD Srndać Hunting Society hosts a cooking competition and wildlife education session, while the Moto and Off-Road Club adds its own festive flair.
True to its Zero Waste ethos, the event bans single-use plastics and rewards the first 200 hikers with a free measure of chestnuts.
(Photo: Turistička zajednica grada Svetog Ivana Zeline)
With panoramic views, community spirit and a strong green message, Zelina’s Chestnut Festival promises a weekend of nature, flavour and fun for all generations.
