Blitvijada Festival returns to Croatian coastal town of Podgora

by croatiaweek
September 19, 2024
in Entertainment

Blitvijada Festival in Podgora (Photo: Visit Podgora)

The Blitvijada festival, a much-anticipated annual event, is set to return on October 5th in the picturesque coastal town of Podgora.

This year’s celebration promises to be even bigger and more vibrant, revolving around the star of the Dalmatian table—blitva, known to many as Swiss chard.

With the festival marking the start of “veggie month” in October, it offers a unique opportunity for both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in a variety of blitva-based products and delicacies, all while promoting healthy living.

(Photo: Visit Podgora)

Blitvijada is more than just a celebration of this beloved leafy green. It is a community festival that blends culinary creativity with a wholesome lifestyle.

Festivalgoers can look forward to sampling an array of unique dishes and products, including the festival’s signature treat—blitva ice cream, fondly referred to as “blitvar.”

(Photo: Visit Podgora)

This unexpected twist on a classic dessert has proven to be a delightful surprise for many.

The festival’s culinary offerings are truly diverse, featuring everything from Premis ice creams and Poetica Gin to Kocha Kombucha and Sirko cheeses.

(Photo: Visit Podgora)

Workshops will allow participants to engage directly with local experts, including OPG Livr, who will host sessions on creating the traditional “blitvenjak,” and OPG Ivan Očašić, who will lead soparnik workshops.

(Photo: Visit Podgora)

These hands-on experiences highlight the versatility of blitva and its importance in Dalmatian cuisine.

Throughout October, restaurants in Podgora will feature special green menus, allowing diners to enjoy creative interpretations of dishes centred around blitva, showcasing it as the queen of the Mediterranean table.

(Photo: Visit Podgora)

However, Blitvijada is about more than just food. The festival offers a packed programme of activities for all ages, starting with workshops and educational events for children.

Art enthusiasts can enjoy a photo corner and blitva-inspired artworks, while entertainment for the whole family will include circus performances and live music by the Belfast Food Band and DJ Dupli.

A major highlight of this year’s event is the BlitvaRun TRAIL race, a new addition to the festival. Open to runners of all ages, the trail race provides a fun and active way to celebrate fitness while paying homage to blitva.

(Photo: Visit Podgora)

Participants are encouraged to don green attire or outfits inspired by blitva as they take part in the race, which promises to be a fun and energetic event for the whole family.

(Photo: Visit Podgora)

For those who wish to explore more of Podgora’s beauty, the town offers perfect October weather, pristine beaches, and breathtaking views of the Biokovo mountain range.

(Photo: Visit Podgora)

Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy nature and take in the sights, making it an ideal weekend getaway.

(Photo: Visit Podgora)

Blitvijada is not only a celebration of Swiss chard but a tribute to the Mediterranean lifestyle, blending healthy living, delicious cuisine, and cultural heritage. With a rich programme of activities, this festival is sure to attract both longtime fans of blitva and curious newcomers alike.

(Photo: Visit Podgora)

For more information about the festival and the BlitvaRun TRAIL race, visit:
www.stotinka.hr/hrv/organizator/461
https://www.instagram.com/blitva.run_podgora/

Dress to impress in green attire or outfits adorned with blitva motifs—after all, this leafy wonder is not just a symbol of Podgora but of Dalmatia and the entire Mediterranean.

(Photo: Visit Podgora)

Beyond the fantastic events, Podgora offers you perfect October weather, stunning beaches framed by the majestic Biokovo mountain, and endless opportunities to enjoy nature and sightseeing.