Top 10 things about Advent in Split

Top 10 things about Advent in Split

Living by the sea at the Mediterranean is not exactly a synonym for winter joys, but it has its other advantages. There is a pretty big chance that you won't have white Christmas if spend it in Split, but there is equally big chance you will be able to sit, drink and eat outside. This year, Advent in Split will last longer than ever. It begins on December 2, and ends on January 16. There are also some new locations, and old ones are still there. Here are ten reasons, in no particular order, why visiting Split in holidays season is a good idea.

1. Christmas fair at Riva - This is the central point of Advent in Split, with recognizable cottages offering food, drink and souvenirs. If you want to see and to be seen, this is the place, and every night there are also concerts and DJs performing at the main stage. Sausages, mulled wine, rakija shots are base of culinary offer, but atmosphere is even better.

2. City park (Djardin) - New Advent location is one of the most beautiful spots in town, park next to the Gregory of Nin statue and Diocletian's Palace's northern wall. Stage next to the 19th century fountain will offer some classical music, choirs, etc. In short, more serene and quieter experience than noisy and sometime hectic Riva. Of course, there will be more cottages nearby, along Kralja Tomislava Street.

3. Advent at Piazza - It's not part of official festivities, but for years it's been proven as one of the most popular events. Few bars and restaurants on the main city square, Narodni trg, joined together to throw daily (or nightly) parties, concerts or just let people hang out on the square which can be described as real-life Facebook. If you still remember 70s and 80s, and music of that era, you will love it. And there is one special day to spend it there, but more about it in the next paragraph

4. New Year's Afternoon - You can celebrate New Year as everyone else, with open air concert and party at Riva. However, Split is a little bit peculiar place. There is no better way to describe a town with a church where Christmas Midnight Mass is celebrated at 4 pm. Same goes with New Year, you shouldn't miss to party at Piazza on December 31, and to celebrate New Year at 3 pm, like it's midnight. All ingredients are there; snow, music, sparkling wine, drinks, food, good company.

5. Weather - OK, it's winter time so don't expect spending time on a beach (except for those people from number 6). It can be cold, with some serious wind, and even rain. However, chances are that at least part of Advent time we will have clear sky, temperatures around and over 10, in short - suitable to sit outside. And even if it's not the case, who cares, you can always bring an umbrella and have a good time.

6. Picigin on Christmas and New Year - Yes, there are people who dare to get wet on a beach on these days, in 12-13 degrees Celsius water temperature. If you are not among them, put on some jacket, and head to Bačvice beach on Christmas and New Year's Day to watch one of local traditions, people playing beach game picigin in shallow waters.

7. Codfish and fritule - There are two treats which are always part of holidays season in Split and Dalmatia. We maybe don't cook codfish in as many ways as Portuguese, but in this part of the year it's served everywhere. Best would be to find some new or old friends and enjoy it at someone's home, but any restaurant will do. Same goes with fritule, small fried dough balls, usually with raisins. There is no better than get some homemade, but don't hesitate to use any opportunity to have them.

8. City mood - What is usually called tourist season ended a couple of months ago, but by the end of the year the whole city looks like someone turned a switch on. In some cases it can be even more alive than in the summer, like on some locations I mentioned before. Even beyond those hot spots, it might be a problem to find a chair in bars and restaurants, or public space big enough for all those who want to have fun.

9. Public klapa singing - One of the most recognizable elements of Dalmatian tradition is klapa, special a capella way of singing. It's not unusual to hear groups singing around, but it's something really special on day before Christmas, and on December 31. If you are in town those two days, don't miss to come in the western or Iron gate of the Diocletian's Palace and listen spontaneous choir singing. This is what it sounds and looks like.

Celebrate like locals - If you really enjoyed most of those previously mentioned things, than I must congratulate you. You are qualified to be declared "Splićanin" (someone living or originating in Split), which is a very special title in a very special town. Join us and celebrate like we always do.

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