Rijeka Carnival

Rijeka Carnival

The Rijeka Carnival is a big, happy celebration that happens every year in the city of Rijeka in Croatia. It starts just before a special time called Lent and usually happens between late January and early March. People love this carnival because of its colorful parades, fun music, and beautiful costumes.

The modern Rijeka Carnival began in 1982 with just three groups, but it has grown into the biggest carnival in all of Croatia. Today, many people come to enjoy the parades and events. One special part of the carnival is when the mayor gives a key to a fun person called Meštar Toni, who acts like the mayor during the carnival.

Before the main parade, there are exciting events like a car rally with old, decorated cars and a children’s carnival on Rijeka’s main walkway, Korzo. During the main parade on the last Sunday before Ash Wednesday, people dress up in amazing costumes and dance through the city. The parade ends with a fun tradition called the burning of the Pust, a puppet that represents the problems of the past year.

The Rijeka Carnival is a time for everyone to have fun, laugh, and enjoy being together. It brings joy to the whole city and visitors from many places.