What to see at this year’s Christmas Market in Rijeka

We’ve missed the winter chill we remember from our childhood for years, unfortunately. Despite that, the early sunsets and the colourful red, yellow, and brown autumn foliage remind us of the Advent time. Various decorations, tall pine and fir trees and colourful lights will soon emerge in almost every Croatian town, and the smell of rainy autumn will be replaced by the enchanting smells of mulled wine, juicy sausages, and sweet and tasty fritters. For a truly unique experience, combine these smells with a light breeze carrying the salty smell of the sea and foliage to take in the real Mediterranean atmosphere. You can find the unique Kvarner experience at the Christmas Market in Rijeka, where both the young and the old can enjoy a range of interesting events and programmes.

Those who enjoy great food won’t be disappointed – this year you’ll have the chance to enjoy many unparalleled delicacies not at one, but at three locations near the Rijeka waterfront. Stalls full of street food, from juicy burgers to soft and sweet fritters, and various local delicacies, will be set up in the vicinity of the Croatian National Theatre Ivana pl. Zajca and at the squares Trg Riječke rezolucije and Trg 128. brigade Hrvatske vojske. Don’t forget drinks to go with your food: keep your hands and soul warm with a hot cup of the aromatic mulled wine. The gourmet experience will be accompanied by a wide range of performances, from choirs and Christmas shows to pop group Šajeta and singer Ivana Kindl. The streets will be full of Christmas decor.

The abundance of music and bright lights (12 kilometres of Christmas fairy lights!) will be following you all the way up to the Trsat Castle, with a large Advent wreath. At the Trg Ivana Koblera square you’ll have the opportunity to step into a different, mythical world with the splendidly illuminated Trsat dragon. If a sudden gust of wind surprises you, you can take cover and warm up in this year’s novelty at the Market – the Santa Clause’s cave, where you can see the unique, hand-made nativity scene. The fairy-tale Christmas atmosphere has never been more dazzling!

If you didn’t have the chance to buy Christmas presents, if you want a souvenir to remember this Market by, or if you just want to stretch your legs after a great meal – you can visit one more holiday fair at the town centre. At Korzo, the main promenade in Rijeka, you can visit a wide range of stalls and choose among all sorts of handmade objects and food. You’ll have the chance to buy Christmas decorations, smoked meat delicacies, honey, essential oils and lavender products, tasty liqueurs and olive oil. If you want to give someone a heartfelt present, a handcrafted object in which the inhabitants of Rijeka have poured their hearts and souls, do not hesitate to take a walk along the Korzo.

There are also a lot of fun options for kids. By the tallest Christmas tree at the Korzo they can whisper their wishes to Santa, who will once again set up his booth in the middle of the square. Accompanied by their parents, kids can enjoy the full Christmas atmosphere and take a ride on Santa’s train.