Zagreb on Saturday awaits a spectacle under the stars, a concert DeThe nineties - the years we remember

The summer season in Zagreb has been marked by a vibrant array of cultural events, drawing crowds to open-air venues and historic locations alike. Among these, the Zagreb Classic 2026 festival stands out as a celebration of classical music, offering free concerts under clear skies throughout July. Organized by the Tourism Association of the City of Zagreb, the City of Zagreb, and various partners, the festival presents a diverse range of musical genres—from grand symphonic works and opera galas to musicals, jazz, and tango. This year's lineup promises to captivate audiences with its blend of international and local talent, showcasing both traditional and contemporary performances.

One of the highlights of the festival was the "Praznik mjuzikla," a formal gala concert presented by the Zagreb City Theatre Komedija. On Tuesday evening, the concert featured soloists, choir, and orchestra under the baton of conductor Krešimir Batinic, accompanied by hosts Dajana Čuljak, Filip Juričić, and Roko Sikavic. The event celebrated the 75th anniversary of the theatre’s operations, highlighting its specialization in musicals and its ability to meet the demanding production standards required for world-renowned productions such as *Ljepotica i zvijeri*, *Jadnika*, and *Jesus Christ Superstar*. These productions have sold out months in advance, reflecting the high demand for quality performances. The concert also included beloved domestic classics such as *Gubec-bega*, *Dunda Maroja*, and *Jalte, Jalte*, which have become symbols of the theatre's legacy. The evening concluded with the song *"Let the Sunshine In"* from the musical *Kosa*, symbolizing hope, unity, and the fight for a better world.

Parallel to the Zagreb Classic festival, another significant cultural event took place in the Upper Town—*Čvenk*, a new festival designed to transform lesser-known parts of the city into vibrant spaces for art, culture, and community engagement. Running from July 10 to 26, the festival offered daily programming from 6 PM to midnight, featuring over 17 days of activities across eight distinct locations. These included the Popov Tower and Archaeological Garden of the Museum of the City of Zagreb, the Croatian Institute for History, the Marija Jambrišak High School, the Palace Jelačić, the Tituša Brezovački Gymnasium, Vrazovo Promenade, the Atrium of Klovićevi dvori, and the Park Grič. Each venue hosted unique programs, ranging from acoustic music and DJ sets to film screenings, poetry readings, and interactive workshops. The festival emphasized the importance of exploring familiar yet overlooked areas of the city, encouraging spontaneous encounters and creative expression.

At the heart of *Čvenk* was the idea of reconnecting with the city in a new way, blending urban exploration with artistic experiences. For instance, the Tituša Brezovački Gymnasium became a hub for contemporary art exhibitions, including retrospectives of renowned artists like Warhol and Banksy, alongside interactive installations inspired by the works of Vere Fischer. Meanwhile, the courtyard of the Croatian Institute for History offered intimate settings for acoustic performances and DJ sets, while the square in front of the Palace Jelačić transformed into a lively space for dance and street food. The Vrazovo Promenade, known for its scenic views of the Lower Town, became a site for evening walks and impromptu gatherings, all enhanced by live music and a relaxed atmosphere.

Another highlight of the festival was the Park Grič, where the natural beauty of the greenery complemented the cultural offerings. Here, poetry readings, creative workshops, and music sessions were held, creating a sense of community and shared experience. The festival also featured a variety of performers, including established artists and emerging talents, ensuring a dynamic and inclusive environment for all attendees.

Meanwhile, in the Lower Town, the annual *Ljetne večeri HNK i Jutarnjeg lista* (Summer Evenings of the National Theatre and the Morning List) continued its tradition of providing free, open-air concerts. On Saturday, July 4, the event culminated in a special performance titled *“Devedesete – godine koje pamtimo”* (“The Nineties – Years We Remember”), celebrating the golden age of Croatian rock music. The concert featured performances by members of the National Theatre’s three ensembles—Drama, Opera, and Ballet—as well as collaborators from other theaters. The evening was filled with nostalgia, as classic hits from the 1980s and 1990s were performed in a fresh interpretation, bringing back memories for many attendees. The event also served as a platform for awarding the HNK’s national awards for the best artistic achievements of the 2025/2026 season.

In addition to these major events, the *Ponta Lopud Film Festival* concluded its sixth edition with a memorable closing night dedicated to the legendary composer Ennio Morricone. Held in the garden of the Grand Hotel on the island of Lopud, the concert brought together the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra, vocalists, and guest musicians to perform some of Morricone’s most iconic film themes. The event attracted a wide audience, including filmmakers, critics, and fans, who gathered under the stars to celebrate the enduring influence of Morricone’s work. The festival had already showcased a series of film screenings, discussions, and workshops, emphasizing its role as a meeting point for cinematic innovation and heritage.

Across Zagreb, the summer has thus far been defined by a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, each contributing to the city’s reputation as a vibrant center for arts and creativity. Whether through the grandeur of classical music, the intimacy of local theater, the energy of a city-wide festival, or the cinematic depth of a film festival, the city continues to offer opportunities for residents and visitors alike to engage with the arts in meaningful ways. As the season progresses, further events are anticipated, reinforcing Zagreb’s position as a cultural hub in the region.