Experience the Magic of Pula’s Advent Celebration
Pula, a historic city on Croatia’s Istrian peninsula, transforms into a festive wonderland during the Advent season, blending its ancient Roman heritage with modern holiday cheer to create an unparalleled celebration. From December 1, 2024, to January 6, 2025, the city offers a unique blend of ancient heritage and holiday cheer, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a memorable winter experience.
Ice Skating in the Roman Arena
The centerpiece of the festivities is a 600 m² ice skating rink situated within the iconic Pula Arena. Managed by Arctic d.o.o., the rink operates daily from December 6, 2024, to January 6, 2025. Visitors can enjoy a magical skating experience under the glow of festive lights, surrounded by the historic ambiance of the Roman Arena. Operating hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Skating sessions commence every full hour, lasting 45 minutes each. Admission is €3, with skate rentals available for an additional €2.
Festive Concerts and Performances
Pula’s Advent celebration features a diverse lineup of concerts and performances, ensuring entertainment for all tastes. Here’s the detailed schedule:
- December 1, 2024: Jelusick
- December 6, 2024: Rambo Amadeus
- December 7, 2024: Livio Morosin Band
- December 13, 2024: Nika Turković
- December 14, 2024: Pavel
- December 14, 2024: Christmas Jazz featuring Ivona Fabris
- December 21, 2024: Klapa Cambi
- December 24, 2024: Denis & Denis
- December 24, 2024: Vesna Nežić Ružić & Anelidi, accompanied by the traditional “Velika padela” event
- December 25, 2024: Queen Sensation
- December 26, 2024: Freaktion / Pocket Palma
- December 27, 2024: Kawasaki 3P
- December 28, 2024: Urban & 4
- December 30, 2024: Konstrakta & Zemlja gruva
- December 31, 2024: Big Band Pula, featuring the “Velika padela” event
- December 31, 2024: Mrle & Ivanka: Kišni razdraganci (Noon performance)
- December 31, 2024: Elemental
- December 31, 2024: DJ Sword / Petar Grašo
All concerts are free of charge, making this event particularly family-friendly and accessible to all.
Other Festive Attractions
Pula’s Advent offers a range of festive attractions, with highlights including: stunning light installations inspired by local legends and gladiator themes, a holiday train running from December 21 to 30 connecting key event locations, and seasonal markets featuring local culinary specialties and holiday-themed goods.
Light Installations: Stunning displays inspired by local legends and gladiator themes.
Holiday Train: A complimentary train runs from December 21 to 30, connecting key holiday event locations.
Seasonal Markets: Enjoy local culinary specialties and holiday-themed goods at markets throughout the city.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of your Advent experience in Pula, consider the following:
Accommodation
Pula offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets:
Grand Hotel Brioni Pula: A luxurious hotel offering stunning Adriatic views and top-notch amenities.
Hotel Amfiteatar: Located near the Pula Arena, this hotel provides comfortable rooms and easy access to major attractions.
Hotel Galija: A family-run hotel in the heart of Pula, offering comfortable accommodations, excellent service, and easy access to the city’s main attractions.
Dining
Indulge in Istrian delicacies at these notable restaurants:
Konoba Batelina: Renowned for its fresh seafood and traditional Istrian dishes.
Restaurant Amfiteatar: Offers a modern twist on traditional cuisine, located near the Pula Arena.
Vodnjanka: A family-run restaurant known for its authentic Istrian fare and warm hospitality.
Transportation
Free parking is available in public lots during the Advent season.
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FAQs
Q: What is the cost of ice skating?
Admission is €3 per session, with skate rentals available for €2.
Q: What are the operating hours of the ice skating rink?
The rink is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with extended hours until 11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Q: Are the concerts free?
Yes, all concerts and performances are free to attend.
Q: Is there free parking available?
Free parking is offered after 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends and holidays.
Q: What other attractions can I visit in Pula?
Key attractions include the Roman Amphitheater, the Temple of Augustus, and the Arch of the Sergii.
Enjoy the unique combination of historical charm and festive excitement at Advent in Pula 2024!
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