Poreč Advent 2023 Grand Opening: Embracing the Festive Season

Despite persistent rain, a lively crowd gathered last night at Matija Gupca Square in Poreč to collectively kick off the richest advent celebration in Istria – Poreč Advent (Advent Poreč). The opening ceremony, marked by a countdown and the illumination of thousands of decorative lights, brought warmth and joy to the hearts of the attendees.

Weather Challenges Didn’t Dampen Spirits

Despite less-than-ideal weather conditions, the festive spirit remained unspoiled among the many gathered at Poreč Advent. Mayor Loris Peršurić expressed gratitude to the people of Poreč for their wholehearted support of this rapidly beloved event. He extended special thanks to all partners and co-organizers, emphasizing their crucial role in making the program, featuring free concerts, ice skating, performances, animations, and tastings, possible.

Santa’s Visit and Festive Attractions

Lines formed for photo opportunities with Santa Claus, who listened to the wishes of Poreč’s children and posed with them in his specially decorated house. Lighted stilt walkers added to the festive atmosphere. Alongside new decorations and a diverse food and drink selection, Poreč Advent brings a true winter ambiance with its ice skating rink, open every day from 10 AM to 10 PM, including Christmas and New Year’s Day. Skating is free, and equipment rental incurs no additional charge, with the rink remaining open until January 8th.

Culinary Delights and Affordable Offerings

From the first day, visitors indulged in mulled wine, sweets, and sausages, courtesy of the hospitality of the vendors in the festive huts. This year, they have expanded their offerings while maintaining very reasonable prices, making Poreč Advent truly unique.

Weeklong Program Highlights

The lighting ceremony was just the beginning of a week filled with a diverse program. After the performances by Alfa Time Band and Gordan Gregurović Gogo, Poreč Advent hosts a hundred students from the Poreč School of Arts today, showcasing their rich and varied program. Following them is the Replay band.

Tomorrow, children from the Paperino Kindergarten and the Bernardo Parentin Italian Primary School will take the stage, followed by the Tedy Lion band. Simultaneously, the theater at the Public Open University in Poreč (POUP) will feature the hit play “Casabianca” by Maria Lipovšek Battifiace and Irena Grdinić, while the City Library will host an adult workshop on decorative stitching titled “Into the Night, in the Winter Silent Night.”

Thursday promises an exceptionally rich program, celebrating 70 years of Valamar Riviera at Poreč Advent. The evening will feature a concert by Nina Badrić, Marko Tolja, the group Cambi, and Techno Vikings, concluding with the popular Winter Ball Princess event.