As November draws to a close, Zagreb is preparing to light up the city with one of Europe’s most beloved winter celebrations: Advent. Beginning November 30, the Croatian capital will officially kick off its holiday season with the lighting of the first Advent candle at Manduševac Fountain, transforming the city into a glittering Christmas wonderland spread across 18 locations.

For Zagreb’s Tourist Board, this year's event marks a particularly special milestone as the Advent celebration enters its tenth year with a record-breaking number of new additions. Director of the Zagreb Tourist Board, Martina Bienenfeld, described Advent as their “most significant project,” and one that each year symbolically wraps up a successful season of tourism in the city. “There are numerous new features this year to celebrate the tenth anniversary of our Advent concept,” Bienenfeld said. “We've introduced our first major neighborhood location at Kvaternik Square, and this new addition, along with other festively decorated areas, will bring Advent to life for residents and tourists alike.”

The 2024 festivities will showcase ten fresh locations, including an expansion into neighborhoods outside the city center. Zagreb’s Tunnel Grič, a popular Advent feature, will receive an update this year with a Polar Express installation, likely to be a favorite among younger visitors. Tomislav Square, famous for its open-air ice rink, will celebrate its tenth anniversary with special events and decorations, reaffirming its place as a highlight of Zagreb’s Advent experience.

Streets like Petrićeva, which will be newly decorated for the season, and additional pedestrianized areas are expected to heighten the festive atmosphere throughout the city. Bienenfeld shared that these expansions reflect the spirit of Advent as a time for gathering and celebration, as well as the Tourist Board’s dedication to growing Zagreb’s reputation as a premier winter destination in Europe.

Since it began nearly a decade ago, Zagreb’s Advent has gained popularity, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its traditional charm mixed with unique cultural touches. With increased participation from local vendors, artisans, and community groups, the 2024 Advent in Zagreb promises to be an unforgettable blend of festivity, tradition, and holiday warmth for locals and visitors alike.

As November 30 approaches, the city is putting the final touches on its decorations, readying itself to welcome another season of holiday cheer and, with it, another chapter in its storied tourism legacy.