Advent in Dubrovnik 2026 – Updated Guide
Across the city, streets and squares will come alive with Christmas lights, festive decorations, seasonal food and drink, and a varied programme of events for all ages and interests. The historic Old Town, one of Dubrovnik’s most recognisable settings, will once again provide a memorable backdrop for the celebrations, while neighbourhoods throughout the city join in the festive spirit.
Whether you are visiting for the Christmas markets, live music, family activities or simply to experience Dubrovnik in winter, Advent offers a different way to discover the city beyond the summer season.
The Advent Wreath
Each week before Christmas, the lighting of the Advent wreath marks a special moment in front of the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Rector’s Palace, beginning with the first ceremony on November 29. Adding to the festive charm is the traditional Dubrovnik carolling - kolenda - a cherished part of Croatian Christmas heritage dating back to the 13th century. Accompanied by the sounds of guitars, harmonicas, and mandolins, these carols fill the Old Town with a true Christmas in Dubrovnik atmosphere.
Concert & Event Line-Up on Stradun
The main stage on Stradun will once again host an impressive line-up of performances:
- Nov 28: Silente
- Dec 5: “Following Oliver” Concert - Music group Dupini, Zorica Kondža, Goran Karan, Tedi Spalato, Petar Dragojević
- Dec 12: Cake Party on Stradun with Concert by Andrea Šušnjara
- Dec 12: Dalmatino
- Dec 19: Hiljson Mandela and Miach
- Dec 26: Prljavo Kazalište
- Dec 28: Neno Belan
- Dec 29: Dubrovnik Evening concert
- Dec 30: Jelena Rozga
- Dec 31: New Year’s Eve Party for children with Minea
- Dec 31: New Year’s Gala Concert at Marin Držić Theatre - Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra
- Dec 31: New Year’s Eve Party – Crvena Jabuka, Plavi Orkestra & Adi Šoše
- Jan 1: New Year’s Gala Concert on Stradun - Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra
- Jan 1: Dražen Zečić
- Jan 2: Klapa Cambi
New Year’s Eve Celebration on Stradun
The New Year’s Eve celebration will be the grand finale of the Advent in Dubrovnik 2026 programme. The Children’s New Year Party will begin at 11:00, featuring Minea and plenty of festive fun for the youngest visitors. Later in the evening, Crvena Jabuka will warm up the crowd for the main celebration on Stradun, where the regional stars, Plavi Orkestar & Adi Šoše, will lead Dubrovnik into 2027 with unforgettable music and a spectacular fireworks display over the Old Town.
Children programme
During Dubrovnik’s Advent celebrations, children can look forward to festive fun throughout the city, from meeting the festival’s beloved mascot Medo and his elf friends to enjoying the ice rink and Cabrio Bus. The Children’s New Year Party, starting at 11:00 on Stradun, will bring even more excitement with a live performance by Minea and plenty of entertainment for the youngest visitors.
At Sun Gardens Dubrovnik, the celebrations continue with Mini DISCO FEVER, a special New Year’s Eve party for children on December 31, 2026. The evening begins with a welcome gathering at the Soderini Foyer & Terrace, followed by a disco buffet dinner, complete with a clown show, games, dancing and party activities. At 22:00, children can join the Mini Disco Countdown before heading to the Chill-Out Lounge, where they can continue the fun, play or wind down for the night.
Celebrate the New Year in Style at Sun Gardens Dubrovnik
Welcome the arrival of 2027 in an elegant coastal setting at Sun Gardens Dubrovnik. The resort’s New Year Programme Disco Fever offers the perfect blend of celebration and relaxation - from a gourmet gala dinner and live entertainment to moments of pure indulgence at the award-winning spa. Surrounded by sea views and festive ambiance, it’s an ideal choice for those who wish to dance into 2027, away from the bustle of the Old Town yet close to its winter magic.
Festive Cheer Throughout the City
Beyond the music, the festival brings a wide range of cultural, entertainment, and culinary events. The city will once again sparkle in its festive attire, with children enjoying the beloved Christmas train, ice rink, Cabrio bus, creative workshops, concerts, theatre performances, and exhibitions.
Christmas booths with festive food, drinks, and souvenirs will return to Trg od oružja, Gundulić Square, and Brsalje, where families will also be able to enjoy a carousel and other children’s attractions.
During the festival, public buses will run free of charge from 5 p.m., making it easy for everyone to experience Advent in Dubrovnik and explore every festive corner of the city.
Flavours of the Season
Food lovers visiting Dubrovnik in winter can look forward to a delicious selection of traditional treats. Warm up with local favourites such as sausages, sarma, black risotto, bakalar (dried cod), and manestra, or satisfy your sweet tooth with prikle, candied orange or lemon peel, quince sweets, and caramelized almonds. And to keep your hands warm, a cup of mulled wine, gin, or rakija is always a good idea.
Dubrovnik in Winter
Discover why Dubrovnik in winter is a hidden treasure, and let it capture your heart with timeless beauty and festive wonder. With its centuries-old traditions, warm hospitality, and beautifully decorated streets and squares, Dubrovnik invites you to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve 2025 in a truly special way.
Photo credit: Archive Tourist Board Dubrovnik / Photographer: Igor Brautović
