The 43rd Vrbovec festival, "What Did Our Ancestors Eat," showcases local gastronomy and features top entertainment. Join us for a celebration of food and fun!

The town of Vrbovec is poised to host another remarkable edition of the traditional food festival "What Did Our Ancestors Eat?" This event is scheduled to take place from August 23 to 25. The festival's music program promises exceptional entertainment and enjoyment. This year, the primary attractions of the festival will include bacon, sausages, and, notably, the vrbovečka pera, designated as the event's emblematic queen.

In the charming town of Vrbovec, known as the home of Zrinski and the birthplace of Marija Jurić Zagorka, we are set to bring the flavors of the past back to life. This year, the festival will kick off with a formal ceremony on Friday, August 23, at 7 p.m. on the Summer Stage. The event will be inaugurated by Vice-President of the Croatian Parliament, Sabina Glasovac, with Zlata Mück Sušec and Saša Buneta guiding the program. The responsibility of preserving our culinary traditions falls on the dedicated women from Vrbovec associations, who will once again prepare dishes using their grandmothers' secret recipes. The standout creations will receive well-deserved recognition and awards.

Experience an electrifying entertainment extravaganza spread across five stages!

The upcoming weekend in Vrbovec promises an engaging experience for visitors, featuring over 20 stalls offering traditional delicacies, culinary workshops, and a diverse cultural and entertainment program across five city stages. The event will showcase a variety of performances, including plays and exhibitions, alongside musical concerts designed to evoke the charm of bygone eras with a contemporary flair. Each day will conclude with a series of spectacular concerts: on Friday, August 23, Vojko V and Grše will energize the audience with their popular hits; on Saturday, August 24, Petar Grašo will deliver an unforgettable musical performance; and on Sunday, August 25, Željko Bebek will bring the festival to a grand finale.

The festival, now celebrating its 43rd year, stands as a vibrant tribute to traditional cuisine and the preservation of Croatian culinary heritage. More than just a gastronomic event, it embodies a spirit of unity, respect for tradition, and a deep appreciation for the region's rich history. Attendees can immerse themselves in the diverse flavours, aromas, and sounds of Vrbovec, transporting them back in time to explore the culinary customs of their ancestors. The Zagreb County Tourist Board warmly invites all food lovers, music aficionados, and cultural enthusiasts to join in this remarkable celebration in Vrbovec.

The complete program of the three-day event is available at kajsujelinasistari.hr/.