Autumn in the Opatija region is a magical time of year, filled with color, flavor, and tradition. As the summer crowds fade, the local communities come alive with festivals that celebrate history, culture, and local produce. If you’re visiting during this season, don’t miss Matejna in Viškovo, Bela Nedeja in Kastav, and Marunada in Lovran, Dobreć, and Liganj— three authentic autumn festivals that perfectly capture the spirit of Kvarner.

Matejna in Viškovo

Matejna was held this year from September 14th to 21st in the charming town of Viškovo, just a short drive from Opatija. Celebrated in honor of St. Matthew, this traditional event blends spirituality, community, and local culture.

During Matejna, Viškovo becomes a lively hub of entertainment — from concerts and performances that last late into the night, to games, fun, and creativity for the youngest visitors. The town’s streets are lined with stalls offering local delicacies such as homemade pastries, wine, honey, and crafts, while the main square hosts traditional music and folk dance performances.

Matejna has been celebrated for more than a century, and each year it draws several thousand visitors who come to enjoy the warm community atmosphere and celebrate the end of summer with joy and togetherness.

Bela Nedeja in Kastav

Bela Nedeja — meaning White Sunday — is one of the oldest and most visited traditional festivals in the region. This year, it takes place from October 4th to 6th in the historic hilltop town of Kastav, overlooking the beautiful Kvarner Bay.

With a history of over 600 years, Bela Nedeja celebrates young wine, the beginning of autumn, and the rich customs of the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County. The event is even mentioned in the Kastav City Statute from the year 1400, which speaks to its deep cultural roots.

During the three festival days, Kastav welcomes up to 80,000 visitors and hosts more than 600 exhibitors showcasing regional wines, local food products, artisanal crafts, and handmade goods. The cobbled streets of Kastav come alive with music, dance, and folklore performances, creating a unique blend of history and festivity.

Bela Nedeja is not only a celebration — it’s a living tradition where locals and visitors alike can taste the essence of Istria and Kvarner, share a glass of wine, and feel the heartbeat of this ancient town.

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Marunada in Lovran, Dobreć, and Liganj

Perhaps the most famous autumn celebration of all, Marunada is dedicated to the chestnut — or marun, a local variety known for its exceptional sweetness and flavor. This year, Marunada will be held in Lovran from October 10th to 12th, Dobreć from October 18th to 19th, and Liganj from October 25th to 26th.

Marunada offers a rich cultural, artistic, and musical program, alongside a mouth-watering selection of chestnut-based delicacies. Visitors can enjoy cakes, ice cream, and even cocktails made from chestnuts, as well as gourmet dishes where this autumn treasure takes center stage.

The festival also features local music performances, dance shows, and craft markets selling handmade souvenirs, local wine, and seasonal produce. Every year, several thousand visitors attend Marunada to experience its warm and welcoming atmosphere and to celebrate the beloved chestnut harvest that defines the region’s autumn season.

Whether you’re a foodie, a culture lover, or simply someone who enjoys the rhythm of local life, the autumn festivals around Opatija offer a perfect way to experience the heart of Kvarner. From Matejna’s joyful community spirit to Bela Nedeja’s centuries-old wine traditions and Marunada’s chestnut-flavored celebrations, these events bring people together in the most authentic and heartwarming way.

So, if you’re planning your visit to the Opatija Riviera this fall, make sure to join the locals — dance, taste, and celebrate the season like a true Kvarnerian!