Category: News

This year’s special 25th edition of the Špancirfest Street Festival brings more than 200 music programs, across two large stages together with several smaller stages and along the streets and squares of the entire historic core. On the Old Town PAN Stage, audiences can expect 12 concerts in 8 days and at the Villa Bedeković Stage, powered by Kaufland, 3 fabulous concerts. Every day of the festival expect beats and rhythms everywhere you go – from the Food & Party Zone in the Old Town and Miljenko Stančića Square, to „Kreativnica“ in Uska Street and in the music camp on Varazdin’s main square known as „Korzo“. Add this to the almost 100 concerts of Hero’s Street and about 40 programs as part of the LOOP Music Clinic in Gajeva Street, you can understand why the musical rhythms play a real part of this vibrant colourful street festival.

Get ready for three memorable performances on the beautiful stage of Villa Bedeković, with a special evening atmosphere under the starry-night-sky. On 18.8, the first evening of the festival, the Slovenian talents of Perpetuum Jazzile perform on stage, one of the world’s largest vocal ensembles, whose members imitate drumming beats, various percussion instruments as well as those from nature – all simply with the sound of their voice. Group Cambi, known for the hit “Zaljuben”, will entertain an audience on 19.8 with the Mediterranean version of their pop repertoire. This year’s festival edition on 27.8 beautifully closes with the concert “Nothing Else Matters”, prepared by the talented students and professors of the Varaždin Music School in cooperation with the association nuSynergetic.

This performance will feature some of the most famous compositions and interpret them in a classical way, bringing them closer to a wider audience. Don’t miss some of the all-time hits of Metallica, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Guns ‘n’ Roses and Nirvana in a unique performance by upcoming young musical talent. The Villa Bedeković Stage, which is also the only paid stage at this year’s Špancirfest, features six comedy theatre plays, created by the Kerekesh theatre and their guests. Tickets for concerts and performances are on sale for 10 and 12 euros through Eventim or at the official points of sale.

Music truly flows through Špancirfest at every step of the festival. Notably, this year showcases so many famous DJs performing at the Sunset on Miljenka Stančić Square, on Kapucinski Square as part of the Špancir Burger Festival and at “Kreativnica” in Uska Street. The tasty flavours and
fun at the Food & Party Zone bring the rhythms of retro music, and equally, introducing world music back to Špancirfest. Mario Kovač and the Elvis Real Tribute Band will take us all back, reminding us of the greatest hits of the king of rock, Elvis Presley, together with everything to get us in the party mood, by the dance queen of the 90’s, Ivana Banfić. Flow into the reggae rhythms with the popular band One Dread then time for a touch of World Music by the Hungarian Gypsy Jazz attraction Besh o droM. Enjoy the Belgian-Spanish-French-Italian quartet Rumbaristas, who entertain European and global audiences with their innovative expression, or why not feel inspired by new sounds from the Balkans with modern arrangements showcased by the band Balkan Zoo, intriguingly combining elements of Roma music with colourful flamenco.

As you stroll through the colourful city streets, make sure you step over to Hero’s Street, where you can discover young, talented up-coming musicians showcasing their skills. Equally, there is the unavoidable LOOP Music Clinic, which offers a fantastic list of 40 music programs including
performances by Ivana Galić & SoulBeat, Yogi Lonich and Gadjo Manouche.

Although performers on the main PAN Stage at the Old Town have already been previously announced – let’s take another peek of what’s to come: one of the biggest rock bands, Franz Ferdinand from Scotland come to Varaždin for this special 25th edition, preceded by the young and increasingly popular Slovenian indie rock band Joker Out. The list of fantastic performances continues featuring TBF, Silente, Buč Kesidi, Neno Belan & Fiumens & Brass Experience, Parni valjak feat. Igor Drvenkar, The Croatian Pink Floyd Show, BluVinil, Fran Vasilić, Cold Snap and Crna kronika. Remember, entrance to all the above-mentioned concerts is absolutely – FREE.

Among the 200 musical programs featured at this year’s Špancirfest, there really is something for everyone as you absorb the atmosphere for an unforgettable musical journey.

With just 48 days until the most anticipated event of the year – the Jubilee 25th edition of the Špancirfest Street Festival unfolds from August 18 to 27 upon the most beautiful outdoor stage, within the historic city centre of Varaždin. By far, Croatia’s most popular street festival, which has continued to win the hearts of thousands of visitors, in its special celebratory edition shares more than 500 programs, with everything from concerts, performances, plays, music, culinary and children’s workshops to small, curious and unexpected surprises as if by magic, appearing on the city streets and squares.

Join the musical journey through diverse genres
The impressive musical program of this year’s Špancirfest offers a journey through diverse musical genres, from the sounds of rock, pop, indie rock,
hip-hop to nu metal.

The main festival PAN Stage in the Old Town, with a reputation for the incredible combination of stage energy from the performers and passion
of the audience, hosts as many as 12 concerts over eight days. The incredible star-filled lineup includes Franz Ferdinand from Scotland and the young, up-coming and increasingly popular Slovenian indie rock band Joker Out. Many others to look forward to include TBF, Silente, Buč Kesidi, Neno Belan & Fiumens & Brass experience, Parni valjak feat. Igor Drvenkar, The Croatian Pink Floyd Show, BluVinil, Fran Vasilić and representatives of the local Varaždin talent, Cold Snap and Crna kronika. Admission to all concerts on the PAN Stage will be absolutely free.

The music program on the Villa Bedeković Stage kicks-off in style with the global vocal group sensation, Perpetuum Jazzile. Group Cambi bring their
fabulous Mediterranean pop sound to the city whilst Varaždin Music School students, supported by teachers and the association nuSynergetic provide the ultimate musical experience with the Nothing Else Matters concert. As you enjoy the hits of Metallica, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Guns ‘n’ Roses and Nirvana sound performed by the students, they will no doubt win your hearts with their talent. Villa Bedeković Stage is also the only stage where tickets can be purchased.

Theatre comedies for evenings full of laughter
In addition to musical programs, Villa Bedeković Stage will equally, traditionally host something to always put a smile on your face – theatre comedies organized by the Kerekesh Theatre. This year’s witty theatre program features plays including: The Spinsters (Hit Theatre), Nothing without advertising (Crazy House), The Chimney Sweep and To a Healthy Mind (Kerekesh Theatre), Casabianca (Mario Lipovšek Battifiaca and Irena Grdinić) and some seriously funny stand-up comedy – Best of Goran Vinčić (Vinča).

Surprises at every step
The street program of Špancirfest is often described as the true soul of the festival, as Varaždin’s streets and squares become alive with colourful
costumes, musical sounds from unique instruments, drummers, stilt walkers and so many other creative artists. Absorb global performances of
15 artists from ten countries around of the world – from Croatia to Brazil. So much to experience from the rich program, including an innovative fresh musical extravaganza, to be performed in Croatia for the very first time – The Siren Orchestra, from the French company Mécanique Vivante.

A fabulous show is also expected on Kapucinski Square, where 32 dancers from Croatia, Great Britain, Portugal, Latvia and Germany will perform a
multimedia musical stage show, as part of the European People Power Partnership project. Špancirfest is proudly one of 14 partners from 11
European countries involved in the project.

The city streets will once again be taken over by the unavoidable Heroes of the Street. Špancirfest simply loves to combine culture and creativity with special attention at Kreativnica, where designers and renowned Croatian brands present their unique products, and in Umjetnička Street, where
artists from Varaždin and the region warmly gather.

There is also the LOOP Music Clinic, hosting free music workshops for children and beginners, and a music program on weekends.

Foodies’ paradise for lovers of great flavours and aromas
Last year’s novelty, Špancir Burger Festival, once again transforms Kapucinski Square into a real oasis of favourite flavours, and well-known gastronomic names. Those sharing their mouth-watering masterpieces include – Mate Janković, Ivan Pažanin, Melkior Bašić and Marko Palfi.
An unavoidable part of Špancirfest, when it comes to true enjoyment, has to be Wine City, once again located on the open green oasis under the
charming walls of the Old Town. The music and gastronomic program have been creatively put together by the Carlsberg Food & Retro Party zone.

Špancirfest for kids – a world of imagination, laughter, fun and education
Špancirfest is for everyone – not least keeping the young ones fully entertained. This year, find fun, educational and creative content at the Creative Park, arousing the curiosity of little explorers. Vindiland, situated near the Old Town, becomes an inexhaustible source of endless fun, games and sports activities, whilst an exciting dose of adrenaline can be found at the amusement park.

Exhibitors – everything from traditional to modern
Almost the entire historic centre of Varaždin evolves into a place where art, crafts and creativity unite, thanks to exhibitors from across Croatia ready to offer numerous products, delicacies, gift ideas and treats – from traditional to modern. With a variety of materials and techniques, our exhibitors will spark your curiosity as you feel their passion, appreciate their talent and the love they invest in their creations.

In short, get ready for a ten-day experience, like no other – overflowing with fun
and joy at the Jubilee 25th Špancirfest Street Festival.

Following the announcement of the most anticipated headliner, Scottish rock band Franz Ferdinand at the 25th anniversary edition of Špancirfest, in Varaždin on August 22 – as the opening act, they will be joined by the new Slovenian indie rock attraction – Joker Out!

Familiar to a broader audience, with a strong Croatian fanbase, featuring at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, these young Slovene rockers conquer the hearts of audiences with their live performances overflowing with energy, notably witnessed at their performance at the Sea Star Festival, as well as at Šalata in Zagreb, where they recently performed.

Their recent hit “Carpe Diem” won the title of the third hottest song of the Eurovision Song Contest, and the band can boast this particular song entered the Billboard’s list of the most streamed songs in Croatia, listened more than 10 million times on the Spotify platform alone!

Worth remembering is that all music concerts featured on the PAN stage in the Old Town, during this 25th anniversary edition of Špancirfest – are all absolutely free. Stay tuned as we will soon discover the entire program of musical treats for this year’s special celebratory edition of Špancirfest – as the organizers from the Varaždin Tourist Board soon announce everything to look forward to.

Croatia’s Longest-Running Street Festival Proudly Celebrates Quarter of a Century – in Style.

The longest-running Croatian street festival, Špancirfest in Varaždin, celebrates its 25 th edition this year! The jubilee edition, held from August 18 – 27, shares a real musical extravaganza – a concert by one of the biggest rock bands, Franz Ferdinand.

The Scottish rock sensation will perform on August 22 at the main festival PAN stage near the Old Town, and if that wasn’t enough – the great thing about all of this is the concert entry is completely FREE.

With their fabulous music and timeless hits such as “Take Me Out”, “Do You Want To”, “No You Girls”, “Walk Away”, “This Fire”, “Love Illumination”, Franz Ferdinand deservedly marked an entire generation after almost two decades of work. Millions of sold records, a handful of music awards and topping of the music charts highlight why Franz Ferdinand is one of the most recognizable rock bands today. Franz Ferdinand’s performance becomes the most anticipated foreign guest in Varaždin this year with a performance – not to be missed! Reserve the date for this amazing musical spectacle at Špancirfest Street Festival.

This year’s Jubilee festival includes seven more fantastic free concerts – all on the main festival PAN stage, which is just a very small part of the rich program offering more than 500 elements for literally all ages during the ten days of festival delight.

Top Performers from Ten Countries and Dancers with a Strong Message

On the city’s beautiful outdoor stage, along the streets and on the squares of the historic centre of Varaždin, street artists and top performers from as many as ten countries, will leave audiences breathless with their striking performances and appealing costumes.

A unique experience not to be missed is innovative dance spectacle, People Power Partnership at the official opening of Špancirfest, where 32 young dancers from 6 European countries will beautifully perform. This innovative project is co-financed from the Creative Europe program.

Exhibitor Opportunity with Early Registration Discount

As always, a significant part of the street festival are the exhibitors, who add a special charm to the historical centre with their wonderful products and colourful creative exhibition spaces. The invitation to lease exhibition and sales spaces at this year’s Špancirfest has been published on the festival’s official website. We invite all interested exhibitors to really take advantage of the opportunity and the market that the festival offers – as well as the possibility of early registration discounts, and to be part of this year’s special 25 TH edition of Špancirfest.

Špancirfest Goes VR

Thanks to VR technology, it’s now fully possible to experience the atmosphere of the Varaždin’s Špancirfest Street Festival – any time of the year, not just during the 10 summer festival days in August. Špancirfest has now its own VR edition.

Thanks to VR glasses, in just a few seconds and with just one click, travel to the virtual world and find yourself among the magic – in the middle
of Špancirfest! Surrounded by performers, entertainers and excited visitors, enjoy the unique moments of the festival, and virtually feel the atmosphere that is somehow difficult to describe in words without being there. Now you can virtually – wherever you are physically. The VR edition of Špancirfest was financed by the Varaždin City Tourist Board with the funds of the Croatian Tourist Board and the support of the Varaždin County Tourist Board. Find VR glasses at the office of the Varaždin Tourist Board – and see for yourself!

Villa Bedekovic is one of the most beautiful concert halls in Croatia. Located in a romantic park in front of the beautiful classical palace, it enchants both the audience and the artists that perform it. And since we’ve included it in the Špancirfest program, it has become a synonym for inspired and specially tailor-made, concert performances and popular, humorous performances, so the expectation for its full year program is growing.

Ticket price for all concerts is 80,00 HRK and for theatre performances 60,00 HRK. Tickets are for sale from Friday 5th July through EVENTIM system (online and at sales points) or at our web site, and complete program can be found here: PROGRAM

Last year, Špancirfest’s central concert stage was on the green parkof the City’s Stari Grad/ Castle,between its western wallsand ramparts. All performances were open-air and free of charge. Thus, Stari Grad Green Parkwasthe centre of entertainment that includedexcellent meals, street-food, parties and much more.

This year, the greatest Croatian festival, in its 21st edition, will be offeringa far more varied program for all tastes. here will be lots of music and gastro delights, leaving no one bored, hungry, thirsty, or without being entertained.

In short, Stari Grad features:

• Two music stages
• Central Stage–big names: The Gipsy Kings by Baliardo, Rambo Amadeus, Goran Bare i Majke, Krankšvester, Vojko V, Silente, Elemental, Gustafi, Tony Cetinski, Djambo Agusevi Orchestra
• Small Stage – Warm-Up and Afterpartyevents
• more than 45 hours of music
• 20 fantastic concerts
• DJs
• 10 street food bars
• 9 garden bars
• 20 hours of various urban workshops
• Sweet Area
• Beer tavern
• Cocktail bar
• Spirits bar
• Wine bar
• Partner presentations
• over 1000 metres of illumination effects
• Top production

Each year Špancirfest transforms into an all-important foodie destination. Street-food offers around Stari Gradattract more and more visitors thanks to quality, diversity and new meal creations.

In 2019., this hedonistic oasis will be even more interesting and richer in both tastes and flavours to shuttle you to all continents and into different cultures, depending on what you order. The meals will range from traditional to modern, known to everyone as street-food specialities, fantastic burgers, popular sushi, veg, vegan and fusion snacks. In ten festival days the visitors will have a chance to taste them all!

KVART Programme, organized in cooperation with the Initiave V4EYC Varaždin for European Youth Capital 2022, will be a special feature with music performances and numerous workshops, parties and fun.

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Here in Varazdin, we’re counting down the days until Špancirfest 2018, and now we’re few weeks out! So we’re preparing accordingly: for those 10 days in August, we’ll transform the streets of Varazdin into a street festival unlike any other in the region, with a planned musical and other programmes that we cannot wait to show to the public. In the meantime, we’ll be busy… but that doesn’t mean there’s no time for some good news.

And we’ve received some recently: Špancirfest was ranked as one of Europe’s top 20 arts and culture festivals in 2018!

The list comes right from Flightnetwork, Europe’s leading travel agency, which, each year, combs the continent for the best happenings and attractions. They listed amongst some of the biggest names in Europe, as a must-see for anyone this summer. According to their writers, “Špancirfest is an intriguing new model of street festival that combines all different forms of artistic expression for a unique cultural-tourism event in Varazdin, Croatia.” They highlighted our line-up, street performers, and free entry as top reasons to come. (And we agree.)

The news comes on the heels of our 2018 festival, and we couldn’t be happier. So buckle up, because this one is going to be fun.