Advent in Zagreb 2014

PRESS RELEASE 2014/20

ADVENT IN ZAGREB 2014

Zagreb, November 13, 2014 - During the time of Advent, Zagreb offers a special atmosphere which simply must be experienced. An ever growing number of tourists choose the Croatian capital as their destination at that time of year as good fun is had by all, literally, every step of the way. The city streets and squares invite you to let your hair down and partake in singing, dancing, and other kinds of entertainment with family and friends. You can also sample traditional delicacies alfresco or enjoy themed programmes which take you down the memory lane…

The manifestation begins on November 29th, with the lightning of the first advent candle at Zagreb’s main square of Ban Josip Jelačić and the nearby Zrinjevac Park. This year we have prepared a lot of new surprises for our citizens and our guests:

 Advent on European Square (29.Nov.2014 – 31.Dec.2014) - pedestrian zone in the very heart of the city offers a vivacious Advent event: souvenir and Christmas decorations market, a selection of food and beverages and music events in the evening

 Ice park on King Tomislav Square (30.Nov.2014 - 18.Jan.2015) - Christmas fairy tale awaits you in one of the most beautiful Zagreb’s parks – ice skating rink, selected food and beverages, as well as music events

 Concerts from Zagreb Christmas balconies - Ad gloriam brass, classical music concerts from selected balconies in Zagreb will offer visitors a unique music experience during the Advent season (Sundays in December at 7 p.m.: 7., 14. and 28. in Tkalčićeva 33; 21. from HNK balcony)

Traditionally, many other squares and streets will be in holiday spirit, each with its own story. Here are all the locations:

 Advent on the main square (29.Nov.2014 - 24.Dec.2014) - wide variety of programs, children's events, cultural and music programs and concerts

 Advent on Zrinjevac (29.Nov.2014 - 31.Dec.2014) - through the alley of plane trees, you will reach the old music pavilion, which will welcome you in its Christmas, fairy-tale look and leave you breathless.

 Artomat (14.Dec.2014 - 24.Dec.2014) – fair of unconventional artistic objects

1  Christmas Fair - once again the traditional Christmas Fair will take place during Advent in the streets surrounding the Jelačić Square

 Fooling around by the funicular (26.Nov.2014 - 31.Dec.2014) - an innovative and modern cultural and gastronomic event during the Advent season, with a recognizable design and a relaxed atmosphere

 Kapulica & Chinese lanterns (22.Dec.2014) - the performance of releasing Chinese lanterns into the air is a memorable experience for the visitors

 Classical Music and Jazz at Flower Square (6.Dec.2014 - 20.Dec.2014) - spend your holidays in the rhythm of refined classical music, dance to the jazz music of young and very talented musicians while someone falls in love with you

 Live Nativity Scene (21.Dec.2014. - 6.Jan.2015) – for the eleventh year in a row, Cenacolo Community presents the Living Nativity Scene for Christmas season on Kaptol

We must not forget New Year's Eve events:

• Playground NYE New Year Festival (31.Dec.2014 and 01.Jan.2015) - the famous names from the world of electronic music guarantee an unforgettable New Year's Eve and rerun on the next day

• New Year's changing of the guard with the horses (01.Jan.2015) – a New Year's gift for all of the citizens and visitors to Zagreb

• New Year's folklore evening (01.Jan.2015) - members of the folklore ensemble "Turopolje" at the traditional New Year's concert, perform Croatian songs and in the Comedy Theatre

The manifestation Advent in Zagreb is in the last few years intensively developed in synergy of relevant City offices, Zagreb Concert Direction and Zagreb Tourist Board. Advent in Zagreb is richer each year and covers more locations in the city and becomes recognized as a place of great entertainment during Christmas and New Year holidays. More info: www.adventzagreb.com

Kontakt: Koraljka Eterović PR THE CITY OF ZAGREB MAYOR'S OFFICE Trg S. Radića 1 tel. 01/6100100; fax. 01/6101394 e-mail: [email protected]

Darja Juzbašić PR

2 ZAGREB TOURIST BOARD Kaptol 5 10000 ZAGREB tel. 01/4898547; fax: 01/4814340 e-mail: [email protected]