61st Vinkovačke jeseni folklore festival

The 61st Vinkovačke jeseni has commenced in Vinkovci, serving as a major cultural event to celebrate Slavonian tradition through music, dance, and folklore.

The festival includes the 23rd Festival of Children's Folklore of Croatia, which features 28 cultural-artistic societies from 18 counties. A central highlight of the event was a grand parade involving over 1,800 children from 55 cultural and artistic societies representing various regions of Croatia and abroad. Mayor Josip Romić noted that the children's parade serves as a confirmation that “traditional culture is being preserved by younger generations.”

Key programming features the State Review of Original Croatian Folklore, a ceremonial parade of traditional costumes, and a review of horse carriages and riders. The event also includes musical performances, such as a concert by Jelena Rozga, local crafts, and gastronomic experiences. Additionally, the festival offers literary awards through the ‘Male Vinkovačke jeseni’ competition. Martina Kelava, president of the Community of Cultural and Artistic Societies, emphasized the importance of passing these traditions down to ensure they remain the “backbone of future culture.”