PHOTOS: 60th Vinkovačke Jeseni opens in heart of Slavonia

September 20, 2025

(Photo: Vinkovačke Jeseni)

The heart of Slavonia once again beats to the rhythm of tamburica as the 60th edition of Vinkovačke Jeseni opened on Friday evening in the centre of Vinkovci. Under the slogan “Jeseni rumeni’ jabuka” (Autumn of the Red Apple), the jubilee programme brought together the past and the present in a moving celebration of tradition.

The evening began with verses of poet Vanja Radauš, brought to life on stage by actor Zijad Gračić, setting the tone for a performance dedicated to the founders of the festival.

Characters such as Dragutin Žanić – Karla, Joza Mataković, Deda Stipa and Jelka Radauš appeared on stage, symbolically returning to pay tribute to those who shaped the festival into what it is today.

(Photo: Vinkovačke Jeseni)

Writer and director Marko Sabljaković created a rich dramatic journey in eight scenes, portraying six decades of preserving heritage, dialect, and Šokac costume.

(Photo: Vinkovačke Jeseni)

The scenography, inspired by the orchards of Borinci, was designed by Dubravko Mataković, with around 250 participants bringing the story to life.

For Vinkovci, Jeseni has always been more than a festival. Conceived in the 1960s as a guardian of national identity and tradition, it has grown into a symbol of unity and pride for Slavonia and Croatia.

(Photo: Vinkovačke Jeseni)

Interrupted only briefly during the Homeland War in 1991, the festival returned the following year, and has continued ever since.

(Photo: Vinkovačke Jeseni)

Mayor and president of the organising committee, Josip Romić, emphasised this spirit of resilience and community in his address.

“In times when unity and love for our homeland are vital, to connect Croatia and Croats around the world through Vinkovačke Jeseni is a great honour and privilege,” he said, inviting visitors to experience the oldest town in Europe in its most festive season.

(Photo: Vinkovačke Jeseni)

The opening featured performances from actors, singers and cultural associations, including KUD “Šokadija”, “Gorjanac”, and vocal ensembles “Lipa” and “Lira”. Beloved Slavonian musicians such as Šima Jovanovac, Stanko Šarić and Marija Pavković Snaša also graced the stage.