05.12.2025
Advent by the Sea: A Magical Winter in Pula & Medulin
From November 30th to January 11th, the city of Pula transforms into a radiant winter wonderland where ancient history meets festive charm. Streets glow with thousands of lights, holiday aromas drift through the air, and music fills every corner of the city, offering one of the most enchanting winter escapes on the Mediterranean.
This year, Pula once again stands out as one of Croatia’s most unique Advent destinations - and for good reason.
Skating in the Roman Arena: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
The crown jewel of the season is the ice rink inside the Pula Arena, opening on December 5th at 5 PM.
Expanded to 900 m² and featuring a brand-new skating track, this rink offers a spectacular experience unlike anywhere else in Europe: gliding across the ice beneath the arches of a 2,000-year-old amphitheatre.
Families can also look forward to the arrival of St. Nicholas on December 6th, adding even more holiday joy to the Arena’s festive atmosphere.
Just steps away, the Pula Eye Ferris wheel offers breathtaking panoramas of the Arena and the city’s sparkling holiday décor - an Instagram-perfect moment blending the ancient and the modern.
Portarata: The Main Stage
From December 12th to January 3rd, Portarata is the beating heart of Pula’s music program, hosting a rich lineup of beloved regional artists, including:
- Mile Kekin - December 12
- Linkin Park Piknik Park - December 13
- Vanna - December 19
- Santa Claus arrival (MC Twin Hor) - December 20
- Pips, Chips & Videoclips - December 24
- Buč Kesidi - December 25
- Gitarijada - Rock On Stage - December 26
- Hiljson Mandela - December 27
- Tedi Spalato - December 30
- Psihomodo Pop - January 3
- Dino Dvornik Tribute - January 6
On January 1st, the New Year kicks off with a concert by Febra, while Debeli Precjednik performs on January 2nd.
A New Year’s Eve to Remember
Noon NYE Party (Lima Len) - December 31 at 11 AM, Portarata
Evening Celebration on Forum Square:
- DJ Jinxie Groovse (9-11 PM)
- Neno Belan & Fiumens (11 PM-1 AM)
- Funbox Band (1-4 AM)
The Forum also hosts elegant evenings of jazz, classical music, and Christmas carols, adding a refined holiday touch.
Family-Friendly Magic Across the City
Children will love the beautifully decorated Park grada Graza, home to:
- Santa’s House
- Creative workshops
- Puppet shows
- Festive performances
Meanwhile, weekends at the Pula Market feature:
- Live acoustic music
- The traditional “Velika padela” - a giant pot of seafood risotto shared with visitors
- Cultural events, including Advent wreath celebrations by the Slovenian Cultural Society
Pula’s Advent is warm, welcoming, and packed with activities from morning until late evening - perfect for couples, families, and winter explorers.
Adventura in Medulin: A Seaside Holiday Village
Just a short drive from Pula, Medulin brings its own festive charm with Adventura, a beloved event set in the town’s old square.
The program includes:
- Daily Advent houses with food & drinks
- Arrival of St. Nicholas and children’s animations
- Creative workshops and Santa’s House
- Concerts and live performances
- Cultural events
- Holiday trains, shows, storytelling, and themed evenings
- A special New Year’s Eve celebration at noon at the Malin windmill
From choir concerts to family Christmas cinema, arts & crafts workshops, fire shows, and Santa’s little train through Medulin, Adventura delivers a heartwarming, family-focused holiday atmosphere by the sea.
Don’t miss Pula’s world-famous Advent with concerts, lights, and ice skating inside the Roman Arena and Medulin’s cozy seaside holiday charm: book your stay today!