The Weekend Edit: Your Ultimate Guide to Advent in Zadar & the Region (Dec 12–14)

The Bura wind might be cooling the stones of the Kalelarga, but the Zadar Region is heating up for one of the most diverse weekends of the Advent season. Whether you are a fan of Dalmatian klapa classics, indie rock energy, or the sweet scent of fresh fritule, this weekend (December 12–14) offers a spectacular lineup.

Here is your curated itinerary for maximizing the magic, brought to you by Zadar Region Guide.

📅 Friday, Dec 12: The Grand Vocal Opening

The weekend kicks off on a high note—literally. The main stage at Petar Zoranić Square will host 4 Tenora (The Four Tenors) at 21:00. Known for their powerful vocals and Italian canzones, this is the perfect event for those seeking a sophisticated start to the weekend.

• Pro Tip: Before the concert, stop by the City Lodge (Gradska loža) to browse the newly opened Christmas Craft Fair featuring local Zadar artisans.
• For Families: If you have little ones, head to the City Market (Tržnica) at 18:00 for a special children’s Christmas play.

🕯️ Saturday, Dec 13: St. Lucia, Fritule & Genre Clashes

Saturday marks the Feast of St. Lucia, a day steeped in local tradition, but the evening brings a modern twist.

Morning Traditions

• Zadar: Take the kids to the Museum of Ancient Glass from 10:00–11:00 for the educational workshop “St. Lucia – The One Who Shines,” where they can learn about the saint and create glass-inspired motifs.
• Nin: Join the “Filipova mala kužina” project for a humanitarian “Christmas Marathon” starting at 11:00 from the Community Hall—a fun run around the historic center where St. Lucia awaits at the finish line.

The Sweetest Afternoon: Vir Fritulijada If you have a sweet tooth, the island of Vir is the place to be. From 16:00, the Fritulijada takes over the main square. Teams will compete to fry the best fritule (Dalmatian doughnuts), and you get to be the judge!

The Evening Choice: Klapa vs. Indie Rock Zadar offers two distinct vibes on Saturday night:

1. The Classic Choice: Klapa Rišpet brings the soul of Dalmatia to Petar Zoranić Square at 21:00. Expect mass sing-alongs and emotional ballads.
2. The Urban Choice: For something grittier, head to the stage at Tržnica/Zlatarska Street to catch Jonathan, the energetic indie-rock band from Rijeka, starting around 20:30.

Regional Highlights for Saturday:

• Bibinje: Celebrate the arrival of St. Lucia at 15:00, followed by a party with DJ Double D at 20:00.
• Pakoštane: It’s a busy day with a Squid Hunting Championship (Lignjolov) starting in the morning and a concert by Grupa Viva at 21:00.
• Preko (Ugljan): Don’t miss the “Smallest Wine & Food Festival” starting at 14:00.

🏀 Sunday, Dec 14: Sport, Mystery & Chill

Sunday is for slowing down—unless you are a basketball fan.

• The Big Game: Feel the pulse of the city at Višnjik (Krešimir Ćosić Hall) as KK Zadar takes on their rivals KK Alkar at 19:30. The atmosphere will be electric!
• Pag Mystery: For a unique cultural experience, head to the Duke’s Palace in Pag at 18:00 for “The Secret of the Pag Triangle,” a performance by the Kissa association, followed by the arrival of Santa Claus.
• Winter Park Višnjik: If basketball isn’t your thing, the Ice Skating Rink at Višnjik is open all day, offering a perfect active outing for families.

🍔 TASTE: What to Eat This Weekend

The Advent cottages in Zadar are serving up more than just sausages. This year’s must-tries include:

• The Tripe Burger at the Red Fox cottage—a modern twist on a Dalmatian classic that is winning over skeptics.
• Blackie Burger at Picnic Mingle & Fun—the award-winning favorite with a brioche bun.
• Srdela Snack: For an authentic taste of the sea, try the tempura sardines from the team from Kali.

Want a sit-down dinner away from the cold? Use the Zadar Region Guide platform to book a table at top local restaurants like Pet Bunara or Kornat to ensure your spot during this busy weekend.

🛌 SLEEP: Stay in the Heart of Advent

Planning a last-minute getaway?

• Wellness: Warm up at the Falkensteiner Iadera spa in Punta Skala.
• City Vibe: Check into Hotel A’mare for easy walking access to the concerts.

Browse and book these accommodations directly through the Zadar Region Guide Sleep category for the best rates.

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Stay updated on the go! Don’t let the Bura catch you unprepared. Visit the Zadar Region Guide site to track real-time event changes and book your next experience instantly. See you this weekend in Zadar!