Museum Night 2026: A Midnight Journey Through Zadar’s Heritage

Mark your calendars for Friday, January 30, 2026! Zadar is once again joining the nationwide Museum Night (Noć muzeja) celebration, an evening where the city’s most prestigious cultural institutions open their doors to the public for free.

From 18:00 until 01:00, Zadar’s historic center transforms into a vibrant hub of exhibitions, workshops, and live music, allowing locals and visitors to explore thousands of years of history under the stars.

Top Events & Cultural Highlights

World Music at Providur’s Palace

One of the headline events this year is the Bacchus Khan concert at the Providur’s Palace.

Experience: Immerse yourself in the sounds of ancient instruments like the tar, rabab, and sarod, blending traditional Eastern melodies with modern musical ideas.

Details: Starting at 20:00, this world music ensemble will perform in the Grand Atrium.

National Museum Zadar (NMZ)

The National Museum has a diverse lineup across its various departments:

• Exhibitions: Visit the Kneževa Palača (Rector’s Palace) for the Six Salon Stories, an exhibition showcasing Zadar’s historical interiors.
• New Displays: Don’t miss the opening of the exhibition about Pino, or explore the history of Zadar publishing at Providur’s Palace.
• Music: The atrium will also host a Gypsy Jazz Duo with multiple sets throughout the evening (19:30, 20:30, and 21:30).

Museum of Ancient Glass (MAS)

This museum is a favorite for those who love live demonstrations:

• Glassblowing: Watch master glassblowers create replicas of ancient Roman vessels using traditional methods.
• Special Exhibition: View the “MEMENTO MORI” archaeological exhibition on loan from Split.
• Souvenirs: This is the perfect time to visit the museum shop for authentic glass jewelry made right here in Zadar.

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How to Plan Your Night

Museum Night is about more than just looking at artifacts; it’s a social event that spans the entire peninsula.

• Start Early: Begin at the Archaeological Museum near the Roman Forum to see prehistoric and medieval treasures before the crowds peak.
• Stay Central: Most participating venues are within walking distance of each other in the Old Town, including the Gold and Silver of Zadar at St. Mary’s Church.
• Use the Zadar Guide: You can find all these locations and more in our Explore and Events categories. Many nearby restaurants in the Taste section will also be offering late-night menus to keep you fueled.