Losinj carnival
Lošinj Carnival primary goal is to preserve the island’s cultural heritage and pass it on to younger generations. We achieve this through a series of activities and events that have become a recognizable part of the local community’s offerings during the winter months, outside the tourist season.
Through its efforts, the Association promotes the carnival tradition of the island of Lošinj in the media, throughout the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, across Croatia, and even beyond the country’s borders.
The Association begins its activities on the first Saturday after the feast of Saint Anthony the Abbot, known locally as “Antonja.” The carnival season ends with a grand parade on Shrove Tuesday, just before Ash Wednesday.
Traditionally, the masqueraders take over the city of Mali Lošinj through the symbolic handover of the city keys, during which carnival participants humorously deliver the “Pust’s Message” to the people and local authorities.
In addition to the regular Saturday masked dances and the election of the Queen of the Lošinj Carnival – who represents both the Association and the city at the Queen of the Rijeka Carnival contest – the Association organizes four events unique to our island:
•MareMonada – a race of non-motorized vessels held in the Augusta Bay, right in the city center. This fun and exciting event brings together brave and creative participants who are not afraid to take a plunge into the winter sea.
•Maškarani Caffè – a morning gathering in the city center, on the terrace of Caffe Bar Moby Dick, featuring coffee (or something stronger), fritule (traditional fried sweets), and carnival music.
•Kroštulijada – a competition in preparing kroštule, a traditional carnival pastry. The event takes place in the town square, where each year we choose the juiciest and tastiest kroštule.
•Pusni Tuesday – the central event of the carnival season, when masqueraders and other participants completely take over the town. Following the grand parade, the Pust’s Will is read – a humorous and often satirical reflection on the past year.
For many years, we have proudly participated in the major International Rijeka Carnival, where our striking costumes always attract great attention.
Our activities do not end with the “fifth season” – we continue with humanitarian programs during Advent, take part in the Losinava event, and participate in numerous summer carnivals.