Varaždin, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, transforms into a magical destination during the Advent period, attracting visitors from all over Croatia and abroad. From November 29, 2024, to January 6, 2025, the historical core of the city becomes the center of festive joy, offering a variety of activities for all generations.

Santa's Magical Town: A World of Imagination for the Youngest

Located in the courtyard of the Sermage Palace, Santa's Magical Town spans nearly 400 square meters. This fairy-tale destination offers six themed cottages, including Santa's House, Grandma Frost's House, Grinch's Cave, Sweet Cottage, and Gift Cottage. Each cottage provides a unique experience, from meeting Santa Claus who patiently listens to the wishes of the youngest, to workshops where children can create their own Christmas decorations. A special attraction is the exhibition of old toys, which takes visitors on a journey through the history of children's play.

Virtual Journey: Magical Elevator to the North Pole

One of the newest attractions of Advent in Varaždin is the magical elevator that takes visitors on a virtual journey above the city, all the way to Santa's home at the North Pole. This innovative simulation offers a unique flying experience over Varaždin's Baroque palaces and churches, through clouds and snow whirlpools, ending with a warm welcome from Santa in front of a crackling fireplace. This experience delights both children and adults, creating unforgettable memories.

Advent on Korzo: Music and Gastronomic Delights

The central city square, known as Korzo, becomes the epicenter of musical events and culinary delicacies during Advent. Every evening, visitors can enjoy performances by local and national musicians, from traditional Christmas songs to modern hits. Alongside the music, numerous stalls offer a diverse gastronomic selection, including traditional Varaždin specialties, sweets, and warm beverages that warm up the cold winter evenings.

Advent on Stančić Square: Romantic Atmosphere

Miljenko Stančić Square, known for its charm, becomes a meeting place during Advent for those seeking relaxation in an intimate atmosphere. With appropriate music and a rich hospitality offer, visitors can enjoy warm drinks and delicacies while admiring the festive decorations that create a special ambiance. Smaller concerts, workshops, and other programs are often held here, further enriching the Advent offerings.

Panoramic Wheel: View of Festive Varaždin

An unmissable attraction of Advent in Varaždin is the panoramic wheel, 23 meters high, located on Gajeva Street. From its gondolas, a spectacular view of the decorated city is offered, allowing visitors to experience the festive magic from a bird's-eye perspective. Riding the panoramic wheel is especially popular among families and couples, providing a romantic and exciting experience.

Ice Magic: Ice Rink and Ice Slide

For winter sports enthusiasts, Advent in Varaždin offers a large outdoor ice rink, one of the largest in Croatia. Located on Freedom Square, the ice rink is open daily, and special disco evenings on Thursdays further enhance the atmosphere. Alongside the ice rink, there is also an ice slide that provides fun for the youngest, as well as for older visitors who want to feel the adrenaline of sliding on ice.

Cultural Programs and Workshops

Throughout December, Varaždin's galleries, museums, and theaters organize a series of festive events. From exhibitions and theatrical performances to creative workshops for children and adults, Varaždin's cultural scene during Advent is exceptionally rich. Christmas decoration workshops are particularly popular, where visitors can learn traditional techniques and create unique souvenirs.

Festive Sales: Holiday Shopping

Freedom Square and Franjo Square become the most colorful places in the city during Advent, filled with stalls and cottages offering festive products. Visitors can find a variety of products, from handicrafts and souvenirs to Christmas decorations and delicacies, providing an excellent opportunity for holiday shopping and finding original gifts for loved ones.

Advent in Varaždin, with its rich offerings and unique attractions, confirms itself as one of the most special Advent events in Croatia. Every year, this event attracts thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the magic of the festive atmosphere, the rich program, and unique content tailored to all ages.

Magic of the Historical Core

The historical core of Varaždin becomes the center of festive joy during Advent. Baroque palaces, churches, and squares are adorned with lavish light decorations, creating a magical atmosphere. Walking through these historical spaces in festive attire is a true experience for all visitors. On every corner, the spirit of Christmas is felt, while the scent of mulled wine, cinnamon, and homemade sweets spreads through the streets.

Program for the Youngest: Children's Dreams Come True

For the youngest visitors, Santa's Magical Town offers unforgettable experiences. In addition to meeting Santa Claus and touring his home, children can have fun in workshops where they create Christmas decorations and participate in stories inspired by festive fairy tales. Children especially love Grinch's Cave, which amusingly presents the story of the most famous Christmas antagonist.

Ice Rink and Ice Slide: Winter Fun for All Generations

The large outdoor ice rink and ice slide on Freedom Square are favorites among visitors of all ages. The ice rink is open every day, while special disco evenings on ice are a true attraction for the young. The ice slide provides fun and adrenaline excitement, making Advent in Varaždin an ideal place for a family outing.

Gastronomy: Festive Flavors on Every Corner

The gastronomic offer during Advent includes a rich selection of local specialties, such as Varaždin klipići, sausages, and homemade pastries. Advent stalls also offer international specialties like German sausages, Belgian waffles, and French crepes, further enriching the gastronomic experience. Warm beverages, such as mulled wine, teas, and hot chocolates, are gladly consumed by visitors as they explore the offerings.

Panoramic Wheel: View from a Bird's-Eye Perspective

The panoramic wheel, 23 meters high, offers a spectacular view of the decorated Varaždin. This attraction is especially popular among couples, providing a romantic moment above the city. However, families and groups of friends also enjoy this ride, which has become a symbol of Advent magic in Varaždin.

Cultural Programs: Art and Tradition

Advent in Varaždin is known for its rich cultural offerings. During December, exhibitions, classical music concerts, and theatrical performances are organized. Local artists and musicians often perform in city squares, bringing a touch of tradition and artistic expression to the festive atmosphere. Special attention is given to preserving local customs, making this event authentic and special.

Christmas Shopping: Handicrafts and Souvenirs

Festive stalls and cottages offer a variety of handicrafts, souvenirs, and Christmas decorations, perfect for gifts to loved ones. From unique jewelry to handmade decorations, visitors can find products that carry a touch of Varaždin tradition. This offer makes Advent an ideal place for holiday shopping and finding unique gifts.

Advent in Varaždin, with all its attractions and rich program, continues to win the hearts of visitors, providing unforgettable moments and creating memories that will last a lifetime.