by croatiaweek
January 14, 2026
in
(Photo credit: Grad Rijeka)
Rijeka is once again preparing to enter its famous “Fifth Season” as the Riječki Karneval 2026 was officially announced, reaffirming its status as one of Croatia’s largest and most significant carnival events.
The programme and key dates were presented at a press conference attended by Rijeka Mayor Iva Rinčić, tourism officials from the City of Rijeka and Kvarner, carnival organisers, sponsors and long-standing participants.
Together, they highlighted the carnival’s role as a powerful symbol of Rijeka’s identity, creativity and community spirit.
Now in its 43rd year, RijeÄŤki Karneval will once again transform the city into a space of freedom, satire and imagination.
Traditional events begin with Antonja, followed by the symbolic handover of the City Key to the masked revellers. One of the early highlights will be the official Key Handover ceremony on Saturday, 17 January, starting at 11:30 on the Korzo, with the event taking place at City Hall.
The carnival’s centrepiece events are the two major parades. The Children’s Carnival Parade will take place on 31 January, while the International Carnival Parade, scheduled for 15 February, is expected to draw more than 10,000 participants from over 100 carnival groups from Croatia and abroad.
Mayor Iva Rinčić emphasised that the carnival represents the heart of Rijeka’s identity, describing it as a unique blend of tradition and modernity, local character and international openness.
(Photo: Grad Rijeka)
Tourism officials also underlined the carnival’s importance as one of Rijeka’s strongest tourism drivers outside the main summer season, generating visitor arrivals, overnight stays and international media exposure.
Beyond the main parades, the carnival period will feature a rich accompanying programme, including the Carnival Run, Carnival Riviera, retro and pyjama parties, and the popular Night of Crinolines aboard the Marina Botel, now held for the 14th year.
(Photo: Grad Rijeka)
The 2026 slogan, “Budi što želiš” (“Be What You Want”), again invites visitors and locals alike to express themselves freely. A special communications campaign, “People Who Make the Carnival”, will spotlight the individuals and groups who preserve and bring this unique tradition to life.