A Timeless Melody Reborn: The Story Behind "Božić u Zadru"

The air in Zadar during December is filled with the scent of roasted fritule, the glow of festive lights on the Kalelarga, and now, the resonant chords of a song that has become the heartbeat of a Zadar Christmas.

Recently, a special piece of Zadar’s musical history was brought back to life. Thirty-one years after its original creation, the beloved song “Božić u Zadru” has received a moving “remake,” uniting generations of local talent to celebrate the spirit of togetherness that defines our city.

The Origins: A Song Born of Heart and History

The story began on December 10, 1994. The lyrics were penned by Davor Žagar, with music composed by Nenad Nakić-Njake. For decades, the song lingered in the hearts of locals, but the spark for this modern revival came from an unexpected source: a DVD from 1996 showing the iconic “yellow train” driving through the Peninsula (Poluotok) with this very melody playing in the background.

Driven by the City of Zadar, an initiative was launched to gather the original voices and new talents to record a version for a new era.

A Gathering of Zadar’s Musical Legends

This remake is a beautiful tapestry of Zadar’s finest musicians. The project brought together legendary names, including:

• Amenda Stošić
• Gordana Seko
• Mladen Lokin
• Rikard Perković
• Sime Radoslavljević
• Jere Masnov
• Davor Pekota
• Tomislav Bralić

Adding a modern twist to this classic, the group was joined by the energetic voices of A.K.A. Crescendo, bridging the gap between the seasoned masters and the new generation of Zadar’s music scene.

Visualizing the Magic

The 2024/2025 production was a true community effort:

• Arrangement & Production: Handled by Saša Miočić from the Zadar Concert Office (Koncertni ured Zadar).
• Cinematography: The emotional and stunning music video was captured by Igor Goić of Kreathia Studio, showcasing Zadar’s festive beauty in every frame.
• Legacy: The project was completed with the heartfelt support of the families of the original authors, Nenad Nakić-Njake and Davor Žagar.

Experience the Spirit of Zadar

This song is more than just a melody; it is an invitation to experience the “Badnjak” (Christmas Eve) spirit that makes Zadar so unique. Whether you are strolling past the Roman Forum or enjoying the “Advent in Zadar” festivities, the sounds of “Božić u Zadru” remind us of the power of community.

Planning your holiday visit? Check out our Events category to find live performances of local favorites and our Taste section to book a table for your Christmas Eve dinner!