Zadar Advent & Christmas Market Guide for 2025

The holiday season in Zadar is a truly magical experience, as the city’s historic streets come alive with festive lights, cheerful music, and the inviting scents of holiday treats. Known for its vibrant Advent and Christmas markets, Zadar transforms into a winter wonderland, where both locals and visitors can feel and enjoy the holiday spirit. This guide covers everything you need to know about Zadar’s Advent festivities for 2025, including key dates, top locations, and must-try holiday specialties. And if you’re looking for the perfect place to stay or dine during the festivities, Hotel A’mare is ready to welcome you with warm hospitality and festive specials.

Photo source: ezadar.hr

Top Things to Do at Zadar Advent

Holiday Shopping – Local Crafts and Unique Gifts

Zadar’s Christmas markets are a treasure trove of holiday shopping, with stalls offering an impressive selection of local crafts, artisanal goods, and one-of-a-kind gifts. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry and home decor to traditional Croatian ornaments. For a special memento, look for souvenirs crafted from local materials, such as olive wood carvings or lavender sachets. These markets are a fantastic place to find unique gifts for family and friends or to add a bit of Croatian charm to your own holiday decor.

Live Entertainment and Festive Shows

The holiday season in Zadar wouldn’t be complete without lively performances and entertainment. Throughout the Advent period, you can enjoy a rotating schedule of concerts, choirs, and dance performances on outdoor stages. Local musicians and choirs bring traditional Croatian carols and holiday songs to life, adding to the warm ambiance. In the evenings popular Croatian bands and dancers perform for enthusiastic crowds.

Zadar Christmas Market Locations

Old & New Spots

The heart of Zadar’s Advent celebrations lies in the historic Old Town, specifically Petar Zoranić Square. Here, charming wooden stalls line the cobbled streets, offering an array of local delicacies and festive drinks. Surrounded by the city’s stunning Roman and medieval architecture, this central location creates a uniquely timeless atmosphere.

Key Dates and Musical Program for 2025

Mark Your Calendar

The Advent season in Zadar begins with a time-honored tradition on November 24, a date that holds special significance as it celebrates both St. Krševan’s Day, the city’s patron saint, and Zadar’s City Day. The festivities are launched with a grand opening concert in Petar Zoranić Square, headlined by the popular Croatian singer Ivica Sikirić Ićo, creating an atmosphere of excitement and joy that sets the stage for the weeks ahead.

The Advent season in Zadar features many special events, including Christmas concerts, local performances, and holiday workshops that bring the community together. These are the key dates for 2025:

• • November 28 – Buđenje
    The young, energetic band Buđenje takes the stage at Petar Zoranić Square, bringing dynamic performances to kick off the first weekend of Advent.
  • November 29 – Marko Škugor / Nipplepeople
    Marko Škugor performs on Petar Zoranić Square, while Nipplepeople open the Zlatarska Street stage for the first time this season.
  • December 5 – Kuzma & Shaka Zulu
    December begins with the lively performance of Kuzma & Shaka Zulu at Petar Zoranić Square, setting a high-energy tone for the month.
  • December 6 – St. Nicholas Day: Tajči / Mangroove
    Family-friendly celebrations take place across the city, with gift-giving traditions for children. Tajči performs on Petar Zoranić Square, while Mangroove entertains visitors on Zlatarska Street.
  • December 12 – 4 Tenora
    The monumental voices of 4 Tenora bring classical elegance to Petar Zoranić Square, offering a transcendent musical experience.
  • December 13 – St. Lucia Day: Klapa Rišpet / Jonathan
    Cultural celebrations highlight this day. Klapa Rišpet fills Petar Zoranić Square with traditional harmonies, while Jonathan, the electrifying band from Rijeka, takes the stage on Zlatarska Street, providing diverse musical experiences for all visitors.
  • December 19 – Silente
    The popular Dubrovnik band Silente performs on the main stage, filling the city with energetic music.
  • December 20 – Jole / Porto Morto
    Dalmatian entertainer Jole performs on Petar Zoranić Square, while Porto Morto takes the Zlatarska Street stage, offering a mix of festive sounds across multiple locations.
  • December 24 – Christmas Eve Morning Celebration: “A” Strana
    The Old Town becomes a lively gathering place for locals enjoying drinks, food, and holiday cheer. Musicians from “A” Strana perform on Petar Zoranić Square, providing a traditional musical highlight.
  • December 25 – Christmas Day: Grupa Forum & Ivana Kindl
    Grupa Forum & Ivana Kindl delight visitors on Petar Zoranić Square with seasonal favorites, adding to the festive spirit of Christmas Day.
  • December 26 – Stipanje Celebration: Vatra / Gustafi
    Vatra rocks Petar Zoranić Square, while Gustafi, the iconic Istrian band, performs on Zlatarska Street, keeping the holiday energy alive.
  • December 27 – Maja Šuput
    The popular Croatian singer Maja Šuput performs on Petar Zoranić Square, continuing the musical festivities.
  • December 29 – Elemental
    Elemental takes the main stage at Petar Zoranić Square, closing out the festive performances of the month.
  • December 31 – New Year’s Eve Celebration
    Join the crowds at Petar Zoranić Square for live music, a vibrant midnight countdown, and a spectacular fireworks display to welcome 2026.

Photo source: znet.hr

Christmas Eve Morning Tradition in Zadar

The Christmas Eve morning tradition in Zadar is truly special, with locals of all ages gathering in the city center to meet friends, enjoy a coffee or a glass of mulled wine, and soak in the festive spirit. The lively atmosphere is a heartwarming celebration of the community’s close-knit bonds and cherished holiday customs. Afterward, families head home to enjoy a traditional bakalar—a beloved Christmas Eve dish made from dried salted cod, marking the start of a festive holiday meal.

New Year’s Eve Celebration at Hotel A’mare

For an unforgettable New Year’s Eve, Hotel and Restaurant A’mare hosts an exclusive celebration. Guests can enjoy a rich buffet , expertly prepared with local flavors, followed by live entertainment and a DJ-led dance party. The evening culminates with a champagne toast at midnight and a dazzling fireworks display to welcome 2026. The festive décor and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal venue for ringing in the new year in style. For additional details and reservations, visit Hotel A’mare’s event page.

Photo source: Zadar Tourist Board

Traditional Food and Drink to Try at Zadar’s Advent

Warm Up with Croatian Holiday Favorites

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Zadar’s Christmas markets is by savoring the delicious array of traditional holiday foods and drinks. Treat yourself to iconic Croatian dishes such as kobasice (grilled sausages) and sarma (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice), each offering comforting flavors that define the season.

Photo source: ezadar.hr

Must-Try Local Treats – From Fritule to Mulled Wine

No holiday experience in Zadar is complete without sampling the sweet treats that fill the markets. Fritule are a must-try—light, fluffy fried dough balls often infused with rum and citrus zest, then dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate, making them the perfect festive snack. Another local favorite is paprenjak, a honey-spiced cookie combining pepper, honey, and nuts—Croatia’s delightful twist on gingerbread. For a truly cozy experience, warm up with a cup of kuhano vino, Croatia’s version of mulled wine, brimming with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and citrus zest.

And while you stroll through the market, don’t miss the comforting aroma of roasted chestnuts, a simple yet satisfying snack to enjoy in the festive atmosphere.

Photo source: ezadar.hr

Conclusion

Zadar’s Advent and Christmas markets are a joyful celebration of tradition, community, and holiday spirit. From the beautifully decorated Old Town to the bustling markets filled with unique gifts and local foods, there’s no better way to experience the festive magic of Zadar.

Whether you’re here for the shopping, the food, or the city’s cherished traditions—like the lively Christmas Eve morning celebration—this guide will help you make the most of your holiday season in Zadar. And for a cozy and memorable stay, Hotel and Restaurant A’mare offers the perfect base with its welcoming ambiance, festive dining options, and close proximity to all the main attractions.

We look forward to celebrating with you this holiday season!