Advent moves underground. Enjoy unlimited tastings and entertainment in the cellars of Diocletian’s Palace.

Advent in Split is getting a special underground edition this weekend. Only 3 days remain until the imperial basements of Diocletian’s Palace shine once again in a unique blend of holiday atmosphere and top-tier wine, and gourmet experiences. The second edition of the wine and walk festival Split Underground will take place on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 December, and Dalmatia has been buzzing for days about an event that promises an unforgettable December.

Underground Adria Photo: Jelena Kušar

More than 150 wines, drinks, and delicacies from exhibitors from Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and all regions of Croatia await visitors at around 30 carefully arranged stands. As many as 50 labels will have their Dalmatian premiere right in the basements of Diocletian’s Palace, which adds an extra note of exclusivity to the festival.

The music program further elevates the atmosphere. The energetic group C strana performs on Friday, and Jelena Buble and Antonio Dragojević will lead the Saturday evening.

Underground Adria Photo: Matej Marjanović

The organizers proudly highlight the humanitarian aspect of the festival. By purchasing a ticket, visitors directly support the work of the Split-based association Srce, which cares for people with cerebral palsy.

“The more of us who want to help, even with a symbolic contribution, the closer we are to fulfilling our mission to be human when it matters most. We will donate 10 percent of the net income from ticket sales, and there will be a special Srce Association stand at the festival where personal donations can be made,” the organizers say.

Underground Adria Photo: Jelena Kušar

This year, the program is richer than ever. The offer includes paint and wine workshops by Art Bottega Studio, attractive prize games, and the Dalmatian premiere of a digital wine exhibition created with the help of artificial intelligence under the theme Everything started with Jesus in collaboration with the brand VIVAX. Visitors will also be able to measure their breath alcohol level using Mick Dreger devices to plan a safe trip home.

The ticket includes unlimited wine and delicacy tastings, a unique festival wine glass, a bottle of Leda spring water, and a mini catalog that serves as a guide to the offer and as a key for participating in the prize game. The main prizes are an extended weekend for two at Hotel Dunatovi dvori on Ugljan and at Kurija Janković near Virovitica.

The festival is open from 16 to 22 hours. Tickets are available in presale through the Entrio system at a lower price, while on festival days they can be purchased at the entrance to the basements of Diocletian’s Palace for 30 euros.