This winter, Makarska is once again opening one of the most recognizable holiday stories on the Adriatic. Advent, which in recent years has become a trademark of the city's winter identity, returns in its full duration; throughout December, connecting Kačić Square, Hrpina and Trg Tina Ujevića in a pleasant winter walk by the sea and a place of wonderful experiences.

The magic begins on Sunday, November 30, with the lighting of the first Advent candle and a concert by the band Silente, it was announced at today's press conference of the City of Makarska and the Makarska Tourist Board, who jointly presented the Advent Makarska 2025 event.

"This year's Advent retains everything that made it recognizable, but also brings new experiences and reasons to walk through the city again in December. Concerts, a gastro zone and a large children's program with performances, mascots and a children's reception await us on Kačić Square, Hrpina will be transformed into the Iglu Zone of Santa Claus, while an ice rink will reopen on Tina Ujević Square. We are especially proud of the concept that connects three magical locations in the old city center into a unique Advent walk and atmosphere," said Marina Puharić, Head of the Administrative Department for Public Needs and Social Activities of the City of Makarska.

Makarska Advent this year will once again bring a rich concert program: in addition to Silente, Sandi Cenov (5.12.), Peki (12.12.), Urban & 4 (20.12.), Jakov Jozinović (21.12.), Maja Šuput (26.12.), Jole (27.12.), Minea (28.12.), and the outdoor New Year's Eve will be led by Dražen Zečić.

A special place is occupied by the children's program: "the biggest little Advent in Dalmatia" with the Iglu zone of Santa Claus on Hrpina, an ice rink on Trg Tina Ujevića, workshops, performances and stories throughout December, along with the already well-known Mascot Festival and the children's New Year's Eve at noon.

With a rich entertainment and cultural program, and a diverse offer in the Advent houses for which there is great interest this year, Makarska confirms its status as a weekend destination in December this winter.

"Advent in Makarska is not just an atmosphere, it is a strong impulse for the local economy, community and identity of the city. We have achieved what was long considered impossible - to revive the city in December. In December 2024 alone, we recorded 12% more arrivals and 13% more overnight stays compared to the previous year, as many as 40% more overnight stays in private accommodation, and compared to 2019, a growth of 231% in arrivals and 212% overnight stays. We are particularly pleased with the increase in domestic guests by 350% and a 74% higher turnover of caterers and renters. These results confirm that Advent has a real impact - it has become a driver of the city and proof that Makarska lives even in winter," said Marina Josipović, Director of the Makarska Tourist Board.

The organizers are the City of Makarska and the Makarska Tourist Board, with the support of Makarski komunalac, Elektro Makarska, Hotel Biokovo, Valamar Meteor, Porin, Antonio and numerous local partners.