These are the reasons why many choose Advent in Marija Bistrica

Advent in Marija Bistrica has, for years, been an event that attracts visitors from all over Croatia, not only because of the place’s spiritual significance but also because of the atmosphere that can be felt at every step in December. Throughout the entire Advent season, the town comes to life with programs that connect tradition, music, and family activities, creating the impression of a small but vivacious Advent centre. Only now does it become clear why so many people return here every year…

Advent in Marija Bistrica, Photo: Neven Pisačić, TZO Marija Bistrica

This year, the Advent program runs from 27 November to 31 December and will once again turn this charming place into one of the most vibrant Advent celebrations in Croatia. More than a month is filled with concerts, workshops, theatre shows, exhibitions, and spiritual gatherings, all taking place in a warm holiday ambience that fills the town centre and the well-known basilica. The program is diverse and suitable for all ages, offering classical and spiritual concerts, evening entertainment, creative activities for children, and traditional Advent events such as the lighting of candles and special liturgical celebrations.

Advent in Marija Bistrica, Photo: Neven Pisačić, TZO Marija Bistrica

This year’s Advent is organised through four major thematic weekends. Everything begins with the Weekend of Spiritual Music, which lasts from 27 to 30 November and brings exhibitions, classical music concerts, and the opening of the Bistrica Ice Fairy Tale. The ice rink opens on Saturday, and the evening features a concert by Giuliano at the official opening. On Sunday, the first Advent candle is lit with the Spiritual Band Karizma and the evening program by Antonio Tkalec.

The second thematic part, the Children’s Weekend, lasts from 5 to 7 December and is fully dedicated to the youngest visitors. The square hosts a performance by Bojan Jambrošić in a special children’s edition, Saint Nicholas arrives, and the evening belongs to Neno Belan. Children’s choirs and kindergarten groups take part in the program, a theatre show about Snowman Krešo is performed, and Hotel Kaj hosts a Christmas cookie baking workshop.

Advent in Marija Bistrica, Photo: Neven Pisačić, TZO Marija Bistrica

The third thematic cycle, the Weekend of Lights, takes place from 10 to 14 December. The library hosts a travel evening, and the program continues with entertainment events that include a retro dance party with Minea, Ella, and Senna M with a laser show. The lighting of the third Advent candle is accompanied by the brass band and local choirs, and the day ends with the Christmas play Magic Night.

The final and longest thematic part, the Weekend of Advent Traditions, lasts from 19 to 28 December and brings a blend of tradition, music, and community gatherings. Advent cinema, a poetry evening, pre-Christmas concerts, and theatre shows fill the days, and the main square hosts performances such as the concert by the group 2Dalmatino. The lighting of the fourth Advent candle takes place on 21 December with a rich musical program and the traditional Advent brunch prepared by Tomislav Špiček. During this period, the Basilica of Our Lady of Bistrica offers a series of masses, and the Culture House hosts Christmas concerts and film evenings.

Advent in Marija Bistrica, Photo: Neven Pisačić, TZO Marija Bistrica

The main square comes to life again on 31 December at the well-known New Year’s Eve at Noon. The morning entertainment program is led by Kavaliri and Dinacordi Luna Band, and after the joint countdown, the draw of the Bistrica Christmas Lottery takes place. The Advent atmosphere continues even after the New Year as a holiday concert titled Stella Natalis will be held in the basilica on 4 January, featuring soloists, instrumentalists, and the vocal ensemble Marija.

Throughout the entire Advent season, the town centre and the area around the basilica shine in festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy winter specialties, warm drinks, photos by the ice rink, and local products such as licitar hearts, wooden toys, and handmade souvenirs. The diverse program, which includes theatre shows, workshops, and concerts, makes this event attractive, both to those visiting for the first time and to those who return every year. The full schedule and all details can be found on the official Facebook page of Advent in Marija Bistrica and on the official website.