Miro Gavran winner of the Good Morning Sea 2026 event in Podstrana

Miro Gavran has been named the laureate of the Dobrojutro more 2026 cultural and literary festival, held in Podstrana near Split from August 2 to 4. The award was presented during a ceremony on Tuesday evening, where Gavran expressed deep gratitude for the recognition. The festival, which celebrates Croatian literature and culture through poetry readings, art exhibitions, and musical evenings, marks its 30th anniversary this year. The Dobrojutro more festival originated in 1997 as a tribute to great figures of Croatian poetry. This year’s edition carried the theme “We Celebrate Together 30 Years of Good Morning in Podstrana in Honor of Homeland, Freedom, and Sea.” Over the course of three days, the event featured a Children's Dobrojutro dedicated to poet Josip Pupačić, as well as the presentation of the monograph 30 Years of Good Morning, edited by Jelena Karaman. The festival aimed to honor national identity, freedom, and the sea through artistic expression. On the final day of the festival, a closing ceremony took place, during which the laureates of Dobrojutro more were announced. Miro Gavran, a writer known for his contributions to Croatian literature, received the plaque symbolizing the award. He emphasized how honored he felt by the recognition, noting that it echoed the achievements of some of Croatia’s finest poets and writers over the past three decades. Gavran praised the organizers for their exceptional efforts and the warm hospitality extended to guests throughout the event. The festival has long served as a platform for both established and emerging artists, offering a space for creative exchange and public engagement with the arts. Its location in Podstrana, a historic town near Split, adds to its charm, blending coastal beauty with rich cultural heritage. The annual gathering brings together writers, artists, and audiences, fostering a sense of community and shared appreciation for the written word and visual arts. This year’s edition saw increased participation, with a focus on commemorating the festival’s milestone. The monograph 30 Years of Good Morning provides a comprehensive overview of the festival’s evolution and impact on local and national culture. Organizers highlighted the importance of continuity and innovation, ensuring that the tradition of celebrating literature and creativity endures for future generations. As the festival concluded, attendees reflected on the significance of the event, not just as a celebration of art but as a reaffirmation of cultural values. The recognition of Miro Gavran underscores the ongoing legacy of Croatian literature and the continued relevance of such festivals in preserving and promoting artistic excellence. The success of Dobrojutro more 2026 sets a promising precedent for future editions, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of cultural life in Croatia.