CELEBRATE THE END OF SUMMER IN STYLE IN VARAŽDIN
Today in Varaždin starts Špancirfest
Go to Croatia and you’ll quickly discover that this country is much more than its Adriatic coastline. Today in Varaždin, Croatia’s charming baroque town just an hour from Zagreb, one of the most unforgettable Croatian attractions begins: Špancirfest!
For over 25 years, this unique celebration has filled Varaždin’s cobbled streets with color, music, laughter, and creativity, making it not just a festival but one of the top cultural highlights among all destinations Croatia has to offer.
Špancirfest isn’t just an event — it’s a transformation. Varaždin, often called Croatia’s “baroque jewel,” becomes livelier, louder, and more playful than ever, showing why it’s one of the best places to visit in Croatia. With nearly 500 diverse programs — from concerts and street performances to art exhibitions, creative workshops, gourmet delights, and surprises at every corner — it’s a festival that deserves a spot in every Croatia travel guide.
That’s why more than 300,000 visitors every year include Varaždin in their Croatia trip packages and Croatia tours. For many, it’s the atmosphere that makes Špancirfest unforgettable — a magic blend of history, art, and carefree fun that transforms summer into lifelong memories.
As summer slowly draws to a close, Špancirfest is the perfect way to celebrate its finale. Marking its 25th anniversary, this longest-running Croatian festival continues to surprise and inspire, proving that Varaždin is not only one of the most beautiful baroque towns in Europe but also one of the best places to see in Croatia.
So if you’re planning where to go to Croatia next, don’t miss Varaždin and its spectacular Špancirfest — a celebration that captures the true spirit of Croatia.
One of the Best Croatia Experiences
For ten full days Varaždin will pulsate with energy and rhythm. Although the concentration of content and visitors is highest during the two festival weekends, the week between them is not less busy and exciting; quite the contrary. Each festival day is unique because it takes place at Špancirfest…
Large and small concerts, on large, smaller, and pop-up stages, but also everywhere in Vraždin, offer an exceptional variety of musical styles.
The PAN stage, next to the ramparts of the Old Town, will host Croatian and regional stars.
The intimate and more exclusive stage at Villa Bedeković, the only one with ticket fees, offers a selected program tailored just for Špancirfest, ranging from opera and tradition to pop, rock and sevdah.
Make sure you see some hilarious comedy shows and the best stand-up shows.
The streets of Špancirfest
The streets of Špancirfest are full of events, and street performers, street musicians, and walking bands from all over Europe always attract the most attention. This year’s street program is colorful, energetic, and mobile. The splendor of colors, rhythms, and energy will spread throughout the entire festival area.
Vindiland
The children’s program of Špancirfest allows families a carefree break.
Kids can play on the legendary Vindiland next to the Old Town or develop creatively and have fun in the beautiful shade of the Creative Park; and for those who crave adrenaline, there will be a large amusement park next to the ramparts of the Old Town.
Thousands of Špancirfest steps
The diversity of the Špancirfest program is also reflected in the multitude of products offered on the streets of Varaždin. Sightseeing, trying on, and buying souvenirs, with obligatory breaks for a nice snack, will take you on a wander through the city’s historic center. You will discover the design street Kreativnica and Art Street dedicated to fine arts.
Countless gastro experiences
Experiences are rounded off best, and memories are imprinted by tastes and smells. Food, from small bites on the streets, Gastro Zone near the Old Town, to the fantastic offer of Varaždin restaurants, is available at every step of the Špancirfest. Still, the big gastronomic novelty of this year’s festival is the Špancir burger festival.
The Stari Grad Castle Park is turning into a true gastro-music oasis this year as well. In the shade of the trees, a diverse street food offer awaits you from stalls and food trucks, and when the sun sets, the atmosphere heats up even more with a concert program divided into two parts – Retro and World Music.
Different styles, timeless hits and infectious rhythms invite you to dance or simply enjoy the good atmosphere.
The famous Wine City will be located on the spacious greenery in front of the mighty walls of the Old Town. That mega-hit Špancirfest is a unique place for a beautiful gathering with an offer of selected wines available to everyone. This year the Wine City connected with Gastronomads, who created special snacks and paired them with individual wines.
