The 26th Dubrovnik Carnival began this morning with a lively Masked School Day on Stradun and will continue until March 4th. One of the most joyous times of the year is organized by the City of Dubrovnik and the Dubrovnik Tourist Board, with a rich program for all ages supported by cultural institutions and other valued partners.
Following the ceremonial parade, outdoor entertainment, and the announcement of the best-costumed school classes, the carnival festivities will continue into the evening for the older crowd. This year, for the first time, participants can take part in the Masked Dub Pub Quiz, hosted in Dubrovnik’s bars. The fun continues on Saturday, February 22nd, with the traditional Masked Ball Under the Dome at Lazareti Club, bringing together dance and costume lovers for a night of celebration.
A Carnival for All Generations
The Dubrovnik Carnival once again promises plenty of laughter, joy, and unforgettable moments, especially for the youngest participants. The Masked Kindergarten Day will take place on Friday, February 28th, in Nova Mokošica, featuring a dance party and DJ set at the Naš Dom sports field. The following day, March 1st, the Grand Children's Masquerade Ball, hosted by the Naša Djeca Dubrovnik Society, will be held at the Academis Student Dormitory.
On Sunday, March 2nd, the Little Mask Parade will march from Onofrio’s Fountain to Lazareti, accompanied by the Dubrovnik City Music and the Dubrovnik Majorettes. The fun will continue at Lazareti from 3 PM, where both kids and adults can enjoy entertainment, and prizes will be awarded for the best individual and family costumes. The highlight of the children's program will be the Masked Kindergarten Day on Stradun, set for Monday, March 3rd, when Dubrovnik’s little ones will parade through the city in their creative costumes, with the best groups receiving awards.
A Culinary Carnival Tradition
One of the tastiest events of the Dubrovnik Carnival is the famous Masked Competition in Making Šporki Makaruli, which will once again take place in front of Luža on Saturday, March 1st. Before the competition, visitors will enjoy a vibrant performance by the Dubrovnik City Music, Linđo Folklore Ensemble, Dubrovnik Majorettes, and Lazareti Dance Studio.
Grand Finale – The Last Night of the Carnival
The grand finale of the carnival will be the Traditional Ultimi od Karnevala (Last Night of the Carnival) on Tuesday, March 4th. This year, the Veljun Ball returns to Gradska Kavana Arsenal, where the Taliri band will provide the music from 8 PM onwards. Attendees can expect an exciting atmosphere, attractive prizes for the best costumes, and specially priced tickets.
Citywide Carnival Spirit
Thanks to a collaboration with the Hospitality and Chamber of Commerce Guilds, Dubrovnik’s restaurants and bars will also join in the celebrations. Alongside participating in the Masked Culinary Competition, they will offer special discounts for costumed guests and groups throughout the carnival period.
In addition to a rich cultural and entertainment program, this year’s carnival will feature street performers and jugglers, bringing even more joy to the city's streets! Those looking for a unique carnival experience can also visit the Veljun Installation at the Rector’s Palace, available for viewing daily from 9 AM to 10 PM, starting from Monday, February 24th, until the Last Night of the Carnival.
Support the long-standing tradition of masking up and transforming Dubrovnik into a vibrant stage of joy, laughter, and playful disguises! Come as you are – or as someone completely different – and be a part of the Dubrovnik Carnival 2025!
For the full Dubrovnik Carnival program, click HERE.
