Advent on Ban Jelačić Square

Advent on Ban Jelačić Square marks the ceremonial heart of Zagreb's award-winning Christmas celebration, where the lighting of the first Advent candle inaugurates the entire city's festive season. Located at Zagreb's most prominent central square, this market transforms the grand 19th-century Habsburg architecture into a twinkling wonderland of lights and decorations. The eastern section features Caffe de Matoš, a popular gathering spot with DJs and live music, while the iconic Advent wreath surrounding the Manduševac fountain serves as the focal point for the official opening ceremony. Visitors can explore wooden market stalls offering traditional Croatian specialties like grilled kobasice sausages, sarma cabbage rolls, and sweet fritule doughnuts, alongside mulled wine and rakija brandy. A central stage hosts cultural performances ranging from traditional Croatian dancers to concerts by popular local artists like Psihomodo Pop and Novi Fosili. The square also features a large Christmas tree near the historic clock tower, photo opportunities at the decorated 'Advent Zagreb' installation by the Ban Jelačić monument, and trading stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, licitar hearts, and local artisan products. The festive atmosphere extends throughout the day with varying entertainment, from children's theater performances by Šareni Svijet to evening DJ sessions. Plan to visit during the official opening ceremony on the Saturday before the first Sunday of Advent to experience the magical candle-lighting tradition that launches Zagreb's month-long Christmas celebration.