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Balinjerada Opatija
February 8
Opatija Carnival – A Tradition That Never Stops Inspiring!
When winter grips the coast, Opatija answers with smiles, music, and masks – it’s carnival time! With decades of tradition, the Opatija Carnival transforms the city into a stage of imagination, satire, and shared joy for over a month.
Two signature events steal the spotlight:
- Children’s Carnival Parade (2026 will mark its 28th edition) – Thousands of young masked participants from across the region fill Opatija’s streets with colour, music, and cheer, creating a vibrant celebration of creativity and playfulness.
- Balinjerada (43rd edition in 2026) – A unique race where participants ride home-made vehicles with ball-bearing wheels down Opatija’s main street. Created in 1983 by musician Duško Jeličić Dule, it’s a mix of tradition, ingenuity, and carnival spirit, with awards for speed, design, and originality.
Other highlights include the Masked Klapa Marathon, where vocal groups in costume perform popular songs with humour and carnival flair.
Opatija Carnival is more than an event – it’s an experience, a celebration of togetherness, and proof that laughter never goes out of style. Here, masks never hide a smile!
