Auch das Unwetter kann die Atmosphäre nicht verderben: auf dieser Fähre lebt das Lied weiter, schaut!

On Sunday, July 26, 2026, the Matulj Amphitheater hosted another edition of "Oliver's Evening," part of the Matulj Summer Evenings program titled "Tramontana Will Refresh You!" The event began at 9 p.m. and featured performances by the band Trend, who will interpret timeless hits by Oliver Dragojević, one of Croatia’s most revered musicians. The evening was named "You Are Missing," symbolizing the enduring legacy of Dragojević, whose music continues to unite generations through shared memories and emotional lyrics. Admission was free, with the event moving indoors to the school sports hall in case of bad weather. The concert took place just eight years after Dragojević’s passing, marking a poignant tribute to his influence on Croatian culture. Fans gathered in large numbers, eager to sing along to his most famous songs, which remain deeply embedded in national memory. The event was organized under the broader "Trag u Beskraju" (Trace into Infinity) festival, which runs until July 31, culminating in a major concert in Vela Luka on July 29, the anniversary of Dragojević’s death. A similar tribute occurred earlier in the day aboard the Jadrolinija ferry Marko Polo, traveling from Split to Vela Luka. Despite strong winds forcing the concert inside the ship’s salons, over 800 passengers filled the vessel, many holding tickets sold out within 15 minutes. Performers included Ante Gelo Band, Marko Tolj, Iva Ajduković, and Marija Pavlić. The journey, lasting more than three hours, turned into a musical pilgrimage, with passengers singing Dragojević’s songs throughout the trip. The ferry departed at 5 p.m., arriving in Vela Luka around 8:30 p.m., setting the stage for the final concert of the festival. Among the attendees was Sandra Rožić Perković, wife of singer Marko Perković Thompson, who is preparing for a concert in Šibenik on August 4. She joined friends on the ferry to honor Dragojević, choosing not to miss this year’s special event. The Marko Polo was packed, with the atmosphere charged by the opening song "Pismo Moja, Leti Mi Do Nje" (My Letter, Fly to Her), which immediately set the tone for the evening. Other notable guests included Jelena Perčin with her daughter Lota, and comedian Mario Petreković, who wandered through the halls with a child in his arms. The "Trag u Beskraju" festival has become a central gathering point for fans of Dragojević, drawing thousands to locations across Dalmatia. This year’s edition includes multiple concerts, with the highlight being the July 29 event in Vela Luka, where the legacy of Dragojević will be celebrated in full. The organizers have ensured that each performance honors both the artist’s contributions and the deep emotional connection his music continues to inspire among listeners. The event in Matulj followed a similar format, with Trend performing a selection of Dragojević’s greatest hits. The band’s choice of repertoire emphasized the timelessness of the music, allowing audiences to relive cherished moments through song. The amphitheater, known for its acoustics and scenic views, became a venue for collective remembrance, with fans singing along to every lyric. In case of inclement weather, the event was moved to the school sports hall, ensuring continuity despite potential disruptions. As the festival progresses, anticipation builds for the final concert in Vela Luka. Organizers have confirmed that all logistical arrangements are complete, including security, sound equipment, and seating plans. The event promises to be a fitting tribute, with performances planned to last well into the night. Meanwhile, the ferry journey from Split to Vela Luka serves as a symbolic passage, carrying fans closer to the culmination of their homage to Dragojević. The Marko Polo arrived in Vela Luka shortly before midnight, with passengers disembarking to prepare for the main event.