What’s happening in the city of Zagreb in May?
Spring has come into full bloom. The days are getting longer, jackets are getting lighter, and city squares, parks, and streets are coming back to life. Zagreb is awakening from its winter slumber in the best possible way: through festivals. Especially May — a month when cultural and entertainment programs gradually move outdoors — brings a wide variety of events for all tastes.
If you’re wondering where to find a good concert this season, an interesting exhibition, a beer under the open sky, or a conversation about space and history, this list will come in handy.
SCIENCE FESTIVAL – VARIOUS LOCATIONS ACROSS THE CITY – MAY 5–10
Workshops, lectures, and experiments for all age groups, from children to adults. The festival’s aim is to popularize science through interactive and fun content at accessible locations such as the Technical Museum and university faculties.
FLORAART – BUNDEK – MAY 8–11
The largest international garden exhibition in the region, featuring thousands of flowers, bonsai trees, shrubs, and seedlings. Perfect for anyone who loves gardening, horticulture, or a relaxing spring walk surrounded by the scent of flowers.
FloraArt, Photo: Boris15 Depositphotos
PIZZA FESTIVAL ZAGREB – DR. FRANJE TUĐMANA SQUARE – MAY 8–18
A festival that brings together the best pizza masters from Croatia and the region. In a relaxed outdoor setting, with music and drinks, you can sample a variety of pizza styles and flavors every day.
SFERAKON 2025 – RADOSLAV CIMMERMAN 88 STREET– MAY 9–11
Croatia’s largest sci-fi and fantasy convention features lectures, cosplay, gaming, and appearances by renowned authors. Among this year’s guests are Martha Wells and Julie Caitlin Brown, and the program is rich and diverse — a must for all fans of speculative genres.
Photo: PR Pizza Festivala Zagreb
12th KLIOFEST – FESTIVAL OF HISTORY – NATIONAL AND UNIVERSITY LIBRARY & BOGDAN OGRIZOVIĆ LIBRARY – MAY 13–16
A celebration of history through books, lectures, and panel discussions. The event puts special emphasis on popularizing history and promoting historical publications, with a book fair held in the lobby of the National and University Library (NSK).
JAZZHR FESTIVAL – CULTURE FACTORY – MAY 14–16
Top jazz musicians from Croatia and abroad come together for three days of performances that push the boundaries of improvisation and musical expression. Perfect for those who enjoy the intimacy of club settings and focused, immersive listening.
VALHALLA MUF FESTIVAL – SWAMP CLUB – MAY 16–17
A two-night festival of metal and alternative music, featuring bands like Primordial, Manntra, and Nemesis. Močvara transforms into a haven for fans of heavy sound, raw energy, and underground vibes.
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SUBVERSIVE FESTIVAL – CINEMA EUROPE & VARIOUS LOCATIONS – MAY 19–31
A film and theory festival dedicated to social and political themes. The program includes screenings, panels, and conversations with thinkers and authors who critically examine the current system.
SPARKLING WINE & STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL – JASTREBARSKO – MAY 25–26
A weekend devoted to the delightful pairing of fresh strawberries and summer-ready sparkling wines. Set in the winegrowing region of Plešivica, the festival offers tastings, vineyard walks, and a true springtime romantic escape.
28th FESTIVAL OF ALTERNATIVE THEATER EXPRESSION – FAKI – KC MEDIKA & PARTNER LOCATIONS – MAY 26 – JUNE 1
A festival of independent and experimental performance art featuring both local and international artists. This year’s theme, “Care is Resistance,” brings a lineup of performances, workshops, and shows that challenge the boundaries of theater.
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ZAGREB CITY DAY – CITY CENTER – MAY 31
The central Zagreb holiday is celebrated with concerts, masses, fireworks, and various cultural events. The day when the city spills out onto the streets and belongs entirely to its citizens. The full program has not yet been announced.
What event are you looking forward to? Let us know in the comments!
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The publication was created as a result of the joint work of the editorial staff.
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