PHOTOS: A visit to Croatia’s popular chestnut festival
- by croatiaweek
- in Entertainment
(Photo: TZ Sveti Ivan Zelina)
The 26th annual Kestenijada festival took place in the Croatian town of Sveti Ivan Zelina near Zagreb on Sunday, attracting thousands of visitors with a celebration of nature, gastronomy, and chestnuts.
The event kicked off on Saturday with the reopening of the educational eco-trail “Through Zelinska Gora,” featuring guided walks, educational wooden signs, and a wellness programme led by Mario Valentić, which included body & mind training and breathing exercises.
(Photo: TZ Sveti Ivan Zelina)
The walk concluded with an open-air lunch atop Kladeščica.
On the main day, visitors enjoyed a variety of culinary delights, including mushroom stew, barbecue dishes, and local pastries.
(Photo: TZ Sveti Ivan Zelina)
The event also featured a cooking competition for a traditional hunting stew, hosted by the local hunting society, alongside educational talks about local wildlife.
Families could sample young wine, chestnut cakes, and craft beer, while children were entertained with outdoor games organised by the local children’s association.
(Photo: TZ Sveti Ivan Zelina)
The event’s organisers, the City of Sveti Ivan Zelina and its Tourist Board, also encouraged ride-sharing to minimise environmental impact. Marinka Zubčić Mubrin, director of the Tourist Board, expressed her delight at the positive response.
(Photo: TZ Sveti Ivan Zelina)
Kestenijada remains a beloved tradition, offering a chance for families to connect with nature while enjoying the flavours of the region.
(Photo: TZ Sveti Ivan Zelina)
The organisers thanked participants for making the event a success and extended an invitation to visit Sveti Ivan Zelina throughout the year for its nature, fresh air, and authentic local cuisine.
(Photo: TZ Sveti Ivan Zelina)
