“Fuliranje” to bring back old Zagreb charm and best of street food

by croatiaweek
November 14, 2024
in Food & Wine

(Photo: Sandro Sklepić)

In just two weeks, the much-anticipated “Fuliranje” festival, themed “Tko pjeva zlo ne misli,” will begin, bringing festive cheer back to Zagreb.

Opening to its first visitors on Wednesday, 27 November at noon in Josip Juraj Strossmayer Square, this year’s festival is set to capture the nostalgia of old Zagreb with a nod to the beloved film, Tko pjeva zlo ne misli, offering a heartfelt return to Fuliranje’s roots while showcasing some of Croatia’s most innovative street food.

Returning for its 13th year, Fuliranje is Zagreb’s longest-running and best-loved Advent programme. Set in one of Zagreb’s most charming squares, this year’s event features 16 stalls with creative food and drink offerings, along with stalls selling unique souvenirs.

(Photo: Sandro Sklepić)

Strossmayer Square will be transformed to evoke a vintage Zagreb Christmas, with nods to local traditions and settings like the iconic K Žnidaršiću inn and the festive spirit of old-time dances in Maksimir.

Fuliranje once again gathers Croatia’s top street food vendors in collaboration with Metro Hrvatska to offer visitors a “best of street food” experience with a holiday twist.

(Photo: Sandro Sklepić)

Among this year’s impressive lineup are Picnic Mingle & Fun, Kronut by Boogie, Institut za Kobasice by Mate Janković, Purple Monkey, Chef’s Burger by Ivan Pažanin, Pizza Social Club, and Say Cheese, among others.

(Photo: Sandro Sklepić)

Expect a delicious array of traditional Croatian dishes, from soparnik and štrukli to dalmatinski pršut dried in coastal winds, krpice sa zeljem (pasta with cabbage), and savoury buns.

(Photo: PR Fuliranje)

There will also be Italian favourites like handmade pasta served in Grana Padano cheese wheels, alongside Asian specialities like spicy mango karaage chicken, Wagyu pepper noodles, and katsu.

(Photo: PR Fuliranje)

The festival will also feature gourmet sausages, signature burgers from celebrated chefs, artisanal cheese dishes, and irresistible desserts such as cronuts, rafioli, and everyone’s favourite fritule.

(Photo: PR Fuliranje)

(Photo: PR Fuliranje)

For drinks, Fuliranje presents an equally diverse lineup of liquid treats, from the famed Rakijarnica and Aura’s unique hot cocktails to Punch House and Ginglebells, known for its original “Ginglebells mulled gin.”

As creators of the city’s first mulled gin, they use a traditional recipe with secret ingredients that warm the spirits of their guests. Another crowd-pleaser, the Warmstar Martini—a warm take on the Pornstar Martini—will offer a blend of vodka and passionfruit perfect for chilly days.

(Photo: PR Fuliranje)

For those craving tropical notes, the “Pina Hotlada” combines Caribbean rum and coconut in a hot cocktail ideal for winter evenings.

The festive vibe of “Tko pjeva zlo ne misli” will also come alive through a lively music programme curated by renowned DJ Ozren Kanceljak, featuring sets with playful names like Milostiva and Tek je 12 cajti.

The festival will also feature cultural, educational, children’s, and entertainment programmes, from senior dances to performances by the Zagrepčanke i dečki children’s choir, puppet theatre shows by Tvornica Lutaka, and the return of Father Christmas.

(Photo: Sandro Sklepić)

Families can also enjoy interactive learning activities on sustainability with the eco-organisation Green Action, while eco-friendly, reusable cups will be used throughout the event, doubling as unique souvenirs.

New this year is the HUSH HUSH Pop-Up Market, featuring 20 talented Croatian artists, designers, and artisans offering a variety of handmade items, from unique jewellery and fashion pieces to natural cosmetics and home decor.

(Photo: PR Fuliranje)

With each product carrying the story of its creator, this market celebrates local artistry, creativity, and craftsmanship—making it the perfect place to find original holiday gifts. All ZABA Mastercard holders can also enjoy a Happy Hour discount from 6-7 pm each day, while the Photo Boutique booth will capture precious memories with loved ones.

(Photo: Sandro Sklepić)

Strossmayer Square will once again become a magical circle of joy, festive cheer, and culinary delights, making Fuliranje a heartwarming journey back in time. We can’t wait to embark on this nostalgic adventure, welcoming the new year with a nod to the past and a fantastic surprise concert from one of Croatia’s iconic bands.