Your Guide to Events in South Dalmatia in 2023
Experience South Dalmatia and explore its hidden gems, such as coves, beaches, charming villages and towns and interesting events. Slano, one of four charter Nautika Centar Nava’s bases, is a perfect starting points. It’s tucked deep in the well protected bay and has an enviable location. From the serene shores of Slano, embark on a captivating cruise to the enchanting towns of Dubrovnik, Ston, Cavtat, and beyond.
Read more on the diverse summer events that make South Dalmatia an irresistible destination. Get a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage and vivid atmosphere that define this region. From cherished traditions to contemporary celebrations, the summer of 2023 is brimming with unforgettable experiences in the sun-kissed realm of southern Dalmatia.
Ston Salt Festival
Mark your calendars for the eagerly anticipated Ston Salt Festival. This unique event celebrates the millenia-old tradition of salt production in the town of Ston, renowned for its salt pans and prized sea salt. The Ston Saltworks are open all year long, and offer guided tours, but the festival takes place from 31st August to 15th September. It’s a unique opportunity for visitors to embark on a captivating journey through the history and craftsmanship of this precious ingredient. The festival features concerts, plays, musical evenings, culinary events, workshops for kids and they are with free entrance.
The Ston Salt Festival invites you to an unforgettable exploration of this timeless tradition, complete with delightful entertainment that enhances your experience!
Ston Wall Marathon
Ston is calling all runners, marathon enthusiasts, and adventure seekers for the extraordinary running experience – the Stone Wall Marathon, taking place on the 24th September 2023.
It’s an unforgettable race along the historic Ston Walls, the longest fortified walls in Europe. Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner seeking a new challenge or a recreational runner pushing your limits, this race fits all tastes. Choose your preferred distance – 4 km, 15 km, or 42 km – and conquer the remarkable stone walls that provide a magnificent backdrop for this race. From ascending the steep steps of Mali Ston to exploring crenelated stone walls, towers and fortresses, each step offers breathtaking views of the ancient European salt works and the town of Ston, lush green forests, and the mesmerizing azure sea. The race takes you through the wild Mediterranean forest and the coastal beauty of Mali Ston bay, leaving you with lasting memories of this bold marathon with a grain of salt.
Register for participation in this event on the utrka website.
Epidarus Festival
The next event on our list is the Epidaurus Festival in Cavtat, scheduled for September. This interesting festival offers a diverse range of artistic events, including literature, drama, folklore workshops, and educational sessions. Music takes center stage, featuring globally acclaimed musicians and talented emerging artists, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From captivating concerts to thought-provoking performances, the Epidaurus Festival promises unforgettable experiences. While the official program has yet to be published, you can stay up-to-date with the latest news and announcements by following their Facebook page. Get inspired and enchanted by this extraordinary cultural extravaganza if you’re in the area in September.
Dubrovnik Summer Festival
The renowned annual Dubrovnik Summer Festival has a long tradition. From 10th July to 25 August, this celebration of music, art, and culture will take over the city for the 74th time. As always, it showcases the best of Croatian and international talent.
Performing arts
The Dubrovnik Summer Festival offers a captivating music program. Classical music enthusiasts can anticipate performances by renowned orchestras like the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra and the Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra. Internationally acclaimed pianists and violinists will showcase their talents in recitals. The festival’s venues, such as the Rector’s Palace and the Sponza Palace, provide a stunning stage for these musical experiences. For those with a preference for contemporary music, the festival presents an array of events. This includes jazz concerts, a fado performance, pop music shows, and a highly anticipated performance by the world-famous Croatian band, 2Cellos. The Revelin Fortress sets the stage for this extraordinary musical journey.
Modern and classic plays, ballet performances, movie screenings, traditional folklore dances, the list goes on.
Art
Art lovers are looking forward to delightful and diverse exhibitions at the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. The exhibition “From Dürer to Rembrandt: Old Masters from the Dubrovnik Museums” presents a collection of extraordinary works by renowned artists from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The elegant Rector’s Palace serves as the perfect venue for this exhibition. Additionally, the Museum of Modern Art Dubrovnik takes center stage, showcasing contemporary Croatian art. It offers visitors a glimpse into the colorful and evolving art scene of Croatia. Photography and sculpture shows further enrich the artistic richness of the festival, creating an immersive experience for all art enthusiasts.
Other events in Dubrovnik
The Dubrovnik Summer Festival serves as the driving force behind events and happenings in the city. Simultaneously, smaller festivals enrich cultural heritage with a variety of captivating events. The “Midsummer Scene” is a theater festival, with performances at the historic Lovrijenac Fortress. It transports audiences into the world of Shakespeare. International theater companies will be performing the plays “The Tempest” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream“.
The Ladja Marathon
The Ladja Marathon is an annual amateur sporting competition that demonstrates the speed of the traditional boats – lađas. These are autochthonous vessels of the Neretva river valley. This exciting race occurs on the second Saturday of August (12th August 2023). It covers a challenging 22,500-meter route along the Neretva river and its branches, from Metkovic to Ploce. With over 400 participants, the Ladja Marathon has grown into the largest maritime sporting event in this part of Europe. It continues to attract a growing number of participants and spectators each year.
The race garners immense attention, with over fifty thousand spectators lining the entire route, or witness the exciting start in Metkovic, and the thrilling finish in Ploce. Thirty-three lađas, with the same specifications, launch in tight formation. Propelled by the powerful rhythm of drums, they race towards the distant finish line in Ploče. The winning team receives gold medals, the grand bronze Duke Domagoj shield, and a smaller shield for permanent possession, along with a monetary prize. Originally intended for participants born in the Neretva river valley or descendants of emigrants from the area, the Lađa Marathon has since opened its doors to teams from other regions and countries. This expansion aims to popularize the event and celebrate its rich tradition.
As you plan your summer adventures, let the rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere of southern Dalmatia inspire your choices. Whether you’re indulging in culinary delights or exploring historical sites, this region guides your path. Immerse yourself in artistic expressions or participate in exciting events, promising a summer of unforgettable experiences. From festivals celebrating local flavors to marathons along historic walls, numerous events await your attendance.
Nava team is there for you!
If you need any assistance or further information about these or other events, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team at Nautika Centar Nava is here to help you maximize your visit to Slano and southern Dalmatia. Whether you seek recommendations, booking assistance, or personalized itineraries, we dedicate ourselves to ensuring your journey is seamless and memorable. Reach out to us, and let us be your guide to a summer filled with incredible adventures and cherished moments.
