December is a time of festive atmosphere, and one of the most popular city getaways for Slovenians is undoubtedly Advent in Zagreb. With its beautiful holiday decorations, illuminated streets, and rich cultural offerings, Zagreb has become one of the most popular destinations during this time. This year as well, the city promises an unforgettable experience, full of Christmas spirit, starting with the lighting of the holiday lights, enriched with numerous events and attractions.
When do the Zagreb Christmas lights get turned on?
Zagreb is renowned for its exceptional holiday lighting, which attracts numerous visitors from all over Europe every year. Slovenians traditionally love to visit the Croatian capital in December, as we are enchanted by the thousands of sparkling lights that adorn the city’s streets and parks. The main attraction that marks the start of the holiday season every year is the lighting of the Christmas lights, which usually takes place at the end of November or early December.
This year, the lighting of the lights will once again take place at Ban Jelačić Square, where the festive illumination will come to life to the sounds of Christmas carols and the excitement of the crowd. The date for 2024 has not been officially confirmed yet, but it is expected that the lighting ceremony will occur at the end of November, most likely on the first Advent weekend, on Saturday, November 30, 2024. At that moment, Zagreb transforms into a true winter fairy tale, as the streets, boulevards, and historic buildings are adorned with holiday decorations, filling the city with warmth and light.
Advent Time in Zagreb
Every year, Zagreb prepares something new and special so that visitors always have something to look forward to. The year 2024 will be no exception. Advent in Zagreb is one of the most anticipated holiday events in the region, transforming the city into a fairy-tale destination. For several years in a row, Zagreb has been named one of the best European Advents, which comes as no surprise given the rich festive atmosphere it offers. From magical lights and beautifully decorated squares and parks to Christmas stalls offering delicious treats and handmade crafts, Advent in Zagreb is a true experience for all generations. Every corner of the city breathes the holiday spirit – from Zrinjevac, where tree-lined avenues are bathed in thousands of lights, to the Upper Town, where visitors are welcomed by cultural events and historical landmarks. During Advent, Zagreb offers a diverse program of events, concerts, ice skating rinks, and art exhibitions, making it an ideal destination for a festive getaway.
Advent concerts are a true musical delight, held in the beautiful settings of churches, museums, and city squares. Each year, the city also hosts special music festivals, notably the Christmas Song Festival, where local choirs and musicians perform holiday songs. Visitors can also enjoy various theater performances and dance shows, which are part of the festive program. One of the highlights of Advent is the traditional New Year’s Eve concert at Ban Jelačić Square, where the city welcomes the New Year with a spectacular fireworks display, musical performances, and a true street celebration.
New Attractions and Events in 2024
This year’s Advent brings some fresh attractions that are sure to draw many visitors. One of the new events is the “Festival of Lights,” which will take place across multiple parts of the city. Visitors will be able to admire various light installations, projects, and light shows set up at several locations, from the Upper Town all the way to the Sava River promenade. The festival will be especially captivating at night, when the entire city will be infused with artistic lighting effects.
For music lovers, a series of Advent concerts will be held in churches around the city, featuring classical Christmas songs and compositions performed by local choirs and musicians. These concerts are particularly popular, offering moments of peace and reflection amidst the festive bustle.
Children’s Advent will also be enhanced with new attractions this year. At Zrinjevac and Maksimir Park, interactive children’s corners with creative workshops will be set up, where the little ones can make Christmas ornaments and write letters to Santa. Additionally, a light puppet parade will take place in the city center, offering children and families a magical experience.
What Else Can You See Besides the Christmas Lights?
In addition to the lighting of the holiday lights and traditional Advent events, Zagreb offers many other attractions in December. If you decide to visit the city, be sure to take time to see the Zagreb Cathedral, which is magnificently decorated and illuminated during Advent. A walk through the Upper Town will give you a beautiful view of the city sparkling under thousands of lights.
The Museum of Broken Relationships is another unique attraction worth visiting in Zagreb. This unusual museum showcases objects connected to failed relationships and is a great alternative for those seeking something a bit more unconventional during their holiday visit.
Art lovers can visit the Museum of Contemporary Art or attend one of the many art exhibitions the city offers in December. If you’re a food enthusiast, you’ll be delighted by the many restaurants and cafés where you can try traditional Croatian holiday dishes such as ”potica ” -walnut bread, fritule, and turkey with ”mlinci”.
With its 2024 Advent program, Zagreb continues to be one of the best December destinations in the region. The lighting of the holiday lights, rich cultural offerings, new events, and light installations will ensure that every visitor finds something special. Slovenians have enjoyed visiting the Croatian capital in December for many years, and 2024 will surely be another opportunity for an unforgettable Advent trip.
