Špancirfest

Name: Špancirfest
Start: 2025-08-21
End: 2025-08-30
Location: Varaždin

Varaždin’s Ten-Day Playground of Creativity and Music

2026/08/20 - 2026/08/29

Every August, the baroque city of Varaždin in northern Croatia turns into the stage for Špancirfest, one of the country’s largest street festivals. For ten days, the cobblestone streets, squares, and parks overflow with music, theater, art, laughter, and delicious aromas, drawing over 300,000 visitors from across Croatia and abroad. Families, foodies, music lovers-everyone is invited to “špancirati” (stroll and enjoy) through the city, soaking up the playful spirit and creative energy of this summer celebration.

As summer draws to a close, Varaždin becomes a kaleidoscope of color and sound. Against a Renaissance backdrop, stilt walkers and drummers parade, jugglers and dancers perform street acts, and the scent of fresh bread, grilled dishes, and sweets drifts on the evening breeze. Every step brings a new discovery and a fresh sense of excitement.

Main Attractions

Street Performances, Parades, and International Acts

The heart of the festival is the street program: acrobats, stilt walkers, drummers, and musicians from across Europe fill every corner with surprise. The French Siren Orchestra and dance shows on Kapucinski Square are just a few of the world-class acts that pop up throughout the city. The “Heroes of the Street” parade and spontaneous performances keep the city buzzing from morning to night.

Concerts & Nightlife

On the main stage in the Old Town, Croatia’s top artists and international bands (recently Franz Ferdinand and Baby Lasagna) perform free concerts. Multiple stages pulse with rock, jazz, indie, folk, and world music, and at night, bars, clubs, and outdoor DJ sets keep the party going with jam sessions for all ages.

Workshops, Art & Creative Corners

In the “Creative Park” and “Vindiland,” both kids and adults can enjoy painting, crafts, music, and theater workshops. “Kreativnica” and Art Street showcase Croatian designers, artisans, and artists, while galleries and exhibitions fill palaces and courtyards throughout Varaždin.

Costumes and Decorations

Festival-goers don colorful hats, masks, and costumes, while performers appear in everything from Renaissance to avant-garde attire. The city is decorated with banners, lanterns, and art installations, transforming Varaždin into a creative wonderland.

Traditional Food & Drink

Three main gourmet zones-Carlsberg Food & Party Zone, Wine City, and Špancir Burger Fest-offer local specialties like klipiči (breadsticks), gibanica (layered pastry), langoš, homemade cakes, ice cream, and pancakes. Michelin-listed restaurants and local taverns serve up everything from classic Croatian fare to gourmet innovations. The aroma of grilled meats, fresh bread, and sweets fills the city, and over 200,000 liters of beer and endless wine are poured each year.

Cultural and Historical Background

Špancirfest began in 1999 as a small three-day event and has grown into Croatia’s largest street festival, now running for over 25 years. Varaždin’s tradition as a city of artisans and artists is celebrated, with blacksmiths, weavers, hat makers, and beekeepers sharing the stage with contemporary designers and musicians-a true festival of craft and art.

For locals, Špancirfest is a symbol of Varaždin’s open spirit, creativity, and zest for life. Regardless of generation or nationality, everyone is invited to “špancirati”-to stroll, enjoy, and play in the city’s summer playground.

Participant Voices

Everyone is so friendly. I joined a painting workshop, tasted klipiči and gibanica, and danced with strangers who quickly became friends.

Festival Dates

Špancirfest is held every late August throughout the city of Varaždin. Stroll the streets, savor local food, art, and music, and experience one of Croatia’s most creative summers.