There is nothing like a Christmas in Croatia. I know this might sound silly but when I lived in The United Kingdom I really felt the soul of Christmas had been sucked out of it by the heavy commercialism and money making aspect of it all.
Sell, sell, sell! This seasonal greed kind of ruined it for me.
But it feels totally different here in Croatia. It really does especially in Zadar as it is our local city!
Yes, of course, the Croatian shops advertise more heavily but the charm of Christmas is still in the air and the underlying greed aspect is nowhere near as over bearing as it is in other places around the world.
You only have to wander round Supernova Zadar shopping centre the week before Christmas to notice the huge masses of people are SIMPLY not there!
Yes it's busier, but it's not mobbed, it's nice, it's actually quite refreshing.
In the UK or the USA you can't move in shopping centres at Christmas for the MOBS of stressed out people over-shopping. It's actually horrid.
So I really want to uncover the charm of winter in Zadar with my guide to Christmas in Zadar.
Christmas In Zadar: It's Just a Bit Magical!
Despite its popularity as a summer destination, the city offers a whole new level of excitement during the colder months.
Enjoy mild weather and a less crowded atmosphere as you explore all that Zadar has to offer. Get ready for an unforgettable experience as the city really does comes to life in a different way during the Advent period.
Savour the aroma of delicious mulled wine, indulge in traditional Croatian sweets, and soak up the festive atmosphere with live music and ice skating.
It is an ultimate winter getaway!
Advent in Zadar: Activities
Get ready for five weeks of non-stop fun and excitement this winter season! Starting from late November 24 and lasting until early January, Zadar always hosts a series of events that will bring out the holiday spirit in everyone.
From children's workshops and sweet treats to live music, concerts, dancing, and face painting, there's something for everyone in this festive program.
Sip on a warm mulled wine and enjoy local delicacies, including the famous fritule, while you watch Santa spread joy and cheer.
Most of the events will take place in Petar Zoranic Square, but you'll also find celebrations in other parts of the city, including Five Wells Square and the Roman Forum.
The square transforms into a fairytale-like atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for some Insta-worthy snaps.
Ice Skating in Zadar!
There is nothing more festive than having a whirl at Ice skating! Glide into the Magic of Ice Skating in Zadar! No previous experience is required!
Get ready to enjoy the classic winter pastime of ice skating in Europe. Put on your skates and glide around the 800 square-meter open-air ice rink at the Viลกnjik Sports Centre.
Itโs a family fun time with the huge rink being open to all, from kids to adults, and is especially enchanting at night.
Rent everything you need, including ice pushchairs for the little ones, and enjoy a winter adventure like no other!
The Winter Park in Zadar opens its doors in November and the festivities will last until January!
Activities include the ice skating rink, a covered ski slope and sled slope for kids, food stalls, a book fair, a cheerful amusement park, food kiosks, local musician concerts, and children's theatre performances.
Get ready to experience a Croatian Winter Wonderland!
Photo credit: Bojan Bogdanicฬ
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Zadar Christmas Market: The Main Event
The highlight of the Advent season in Zadar is the Christmas Market at Petar Zoranic Square. Decorated with enchanting lights, this old town square is the place to be for some holiday fun.
The market also features an extensive musical program, with a lineup of traditional Croatian bands, DJs, pop singers, and soul musicians.
Christmas Market Food Delights
Feast on Festive Flavors at Zadar's Petar Zoranic Square Christmas Market in Croatia!
Get ready to be swept away by the magical Christmas spirit at the Petar Zoranic Square market in Zadar.
The air is filled with twinkling lights, warm welcomes, and mouth-watering food.
Dig into Delicious Delights! There's no shortage of tasty treats to savor, with rows of stalls offering everything from cozy warm drinks, mulled wine, and smoked bacon sandwiches, to homemade bites, ฤevapi, and an array of sausages.
Taste the Best of Croatia!
Our must-try recommendations at the market include game sausages, ฤevapi, breaded codfish balls, sarma, and stani-pani crรชpes. Stroll around and discover all the culinary wonders for yourself!
Get Your Foodie Fix at Zadar Street Food Festival Winter Edition. The Viลกnjik winter festivities come alive with mouth-watering food houses like Burgers & More, Salsa Rossa Xmas House, and the Zadar Wine Festival.
Sweet Tooth?
Craving something sweet? Head over to the Roman Forum for Nasi Mali Gusti, a delightful treat for your taste buds. Indulge in sweets, cookies, and candies while enjoying the festive sounds and twinkling lights.
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Explore The City
Put on your walking shoes and get ready for a fun-filled adventure in Zadar! During the Advent period, the city comes together for the "Stroll Around The City" initiative, aimed at bringing locals and visitors together for some shopping, sightseeing, and good old-fashioned fun.
Foodies Rejoice!
Zadar's restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, and museums are all joining in on the fun, with daily music, lights, and festivities. Some of the city's top restaurants will be offering special holiday menus at affordable prices, as well as discounts and offers.
Museums Get in on the Fun Too!
Zadar's museums are also joining in on the fun, offering informative and entertaining programs during the Advent season, complete with discounted prices for souvenirs and tickets.
Just look out for the "Stroll Around The City" labels and signs to know which businesses and institutions are participating!
What is the Weather Like at Christmas in Zadar?
The weather in Zadar, Croatia during the Christmas season is typically cold and damp, with temperatures ranging from 6ยฐC to 12ยฐC (43ยฐF to 54ยฐF). The city experiences occasional rain and drizzle, which can make the streets wet and slippery.
It is important to dress warmly and in layers, as the temperatures can change quickly, especially along the coast.
Despite the cold weather, Zadar during the Christmas season is full of holiday cheer and festivities, making it a great time to visit the city. The holiday markets, food festivals, and ice skating rink bring warmth and joy to the otherwise chilly atmosphere.
If youโre planning on visiting Zadar during Christmas, be sure to bring a coat and comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the cityโs holiday offerings.
Essentials To Pack For Christmas in Zadar
If you're traveling to Zadar, Croatia during the Christmas season, here are some essentials you should pack:
Warm clothing: Bring a warm coat, gloves, hat, and scarf to protect yourself from the chilly weather.
Comfortable walking shoes: You'll likely be doing a lot of walking to explore the city, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Umbrella or rain gear: Zadar can be quite damp during the Christmas season, so pack an umbrella or rain gear to stay dry.
Camera: Capture all the holiday festivities and picturesque sights.
Power bank and adaptor: Keep your devices charged and ready to go.
Travel-sized toiletries: Pack your essential toiletries, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, and moisturizer, in a compact and travel-friendly size.
Cash and credit card: You may need cash for smaller purchases, such as street food and souvenirs, and a credit card for bigger expenses.
Holiday spirit: Don't forget to bring your holiday spirit and enjoy the festivities!
Remember, the weather can be unpredictable, so it's always best to check the forecast and pack accordingly.
Accommodation in Zadar over Christmas
During the holiday season, Zadar is a popular destination for those looking for a festive and beautiful place to spend the holidays.
Accommodation options in Zadar during Christmas vary from hotels, apartments, and hostels, to private rentals.
For those looking for luxury, there are several high-end hotels in the city offering top-notch amenities and services. For more budget-friendly options, there are plenty of mid-range hotels, hostels, and apartments available.
Private rentals such as vacation homes and apartments can also be a great option for those traveling with families or groups.
It's important to book your accommodation early, as the demand is high during Christmas time and prices may be higher than usual.
To ensure the best experience and availability, it's recommended to book your accommodation well in advance of your trip.
We would suggest checking out AirBnB and Booking.com
Spending Christmas in Novalja
Spending Christmas in Novalja can be a wonderful experience, with a mix of holiday festivities, stunning scenery, and plenty of opportunities to relax and recharge.
Here are some suggestions of what to do during Christmas in Novalja:
Christmas Markets: Visit one of the local Christmas markets and find unique gifts and souvenirs to bring back home.
Festive Meals: Enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner at one of the local restaurants, featuring local cuisine and festive dishes.
Beach Walks: Take a walk along the beautiful beaches of Pag Island and enjoy the winter sunsets and the peaceful surroundings.
Island Explorations: Explore the island's villages, vineyards, and natural beauty, including the National Park and the Blue Cave.
Holiday Entertainment: Take in a holiday festive concert, enjoy live music, or catch a movie at the new cultural center, with plenty of opportunities for entertainment throughout the holiday season.
Overall, spending Christmas in Novalja offers a chance to experience a unique blend of holiday traditions, scenic beauty, and relaxation, making it the perfect holiday getaway.
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Christmas in Zadar: Summary
Christmas in Zadar, Croatia is a time for celebration, joy, and festivities. With the cityโs bustling winter market in Petar Zoranic Square, visitors can indulge in an array of delicious food options, including warm smoothies, mulled wine, sausages, and more.
Whether youโre a foodie, a shopper, or just looking to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, Zadar is a destination to consider for a festive Christmas celebration.