Grandma’s secret recipes will come to life at “Slatka Istra”

by croatiaweek
August 3, 2023
in Food & Wine

Secret recipes from grandma will come to life at "Slatka Istra”

(Photo credit: Sebastijan Skoko)

The sweetest day on the Istrian peninsula will be extra special this year, as the “Slatka Istra” event in Vižinada marks its silver anniversary.

The 25th edition of “Slatka Istra” promises to delight visitors with authentic desserts, preserving tradition, and offering a rich program with excellent concerts.

“Slatka Istra” is a well-known event dedicated to ancient Istrian cakes, and especially for this occasion, our tradition keepers, as we fondly call them – homemakers and hosts from all corners of Istria – prepare delicacies according to their grandmothers’ recipes: pandešpanj, pince, bucolaje, štrukoli, or povetice, fritule, cukerančići, kroštule, briskve, and paštine.

(Photo credit: Sebastijan Skoko)

As you stroll through the stone streets of Vižinada, you’ll be greeted by the sweet aroma of tradition. “Slatka Istra” will take place on August 14th, and the program kicks off at 6:00 PM with an exhibition of traditional Istrian cakes in the school hall.

(Photo credit: Sebastijan Skoko)

From 7:00 PM onwards, in the park near the old school, you can enjoy an exhibition and tasting of wines, olive oils, and homemade products from the Vižinada area, treating your taste buds to the best flavors of the region.

(Photo credit: Sebastijan Skoko)

At the same time, the “Slatka Istra” event will officially open in Maraston House, where visitors can witness the preparation of traditional Istrian cake live. The entertainment program starts at 8:00 PM with the brass music of the Brass Band ZT Vižinada, featuring a special guest. At 9:00 PM, get ready to sing and dance as Replay band takes the stage, followed by the much-loved Mladen Grdović, the master of celebration. The winners of the best cakes at “Slatka Istra 2023” will be announced at 10:00 PM.

(Photo credit: Sebastijan Skoko)

The festivities in Vižinada continue the next day with the celebration of the traditional folk festival “Sveta Marija Vela” on August 15th. First, get in the mood with the Laguna band, and after them, at 9:00 PM, enjoy the fantastic Gustafi band, guaranteeing great music and even better fun.