In the heart of the wine-rich Vinodol Valley, the town of Novi Vinodolski is preparing once again to bring to life Ružica Vinodola – a beloved festival that for over two decades has celebrated both beauty and the deep-rooted wine traditions of this region. From August 21 to 23, the town will transform into a vibrant stage of tradition, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences, filled with the aromas of wine and the charm of young women who, through laughter, effort, and customs, revive the centuries-old legend of Ružica Vinodola.

A Legend Reimagined

The festival is inspired by an old Frankopan-era tradition: at the end of the grape harvest, the hardest-working and beautiful grape picker was chosen as the Ružica (or “Rose”). Today, this custom lives on in the form of a three-day spectacle where young women compete in nine themed disciplines; ranging from vineyard skills and household tasks to wine pouring and presentation.

The Program

The journey toward the crown began on August 16 with the introduction of this year’s contestants in Bribir. The main competition opens on Thursday, August 21, in the vineyards of Pavlomir Winery, where the contestants will showcase their viticultural skills. The evening will be hosted by Irena Grdinić, with music by Bosutski Bećari and Trio Nebuloza. Guests can also look forward to a rich array of culinary offerings.

On Friday, the festival moves into Novi Vinodolski’s Old Town, where the contestants will test their abilities in traditional household challenges, accompanied once again by Trio Nebuloza. At the same time, Insula will entertain visitors along the Korzo of Croatian Defenders.

The grand finale will take place on Saturday, August 23, in the Old Town. The contestants will face their final challenges in wine service and presentation, with music by Trio Nebuloza. The highlight of the evening will be the crowning of Ružica Vinodola 2025, alongside the announcement of her first and second runners-up and the “Miss Congeniality” award, chosen by fellow contestants and the jury. The winner will take home rich prizes, including a two-person Adriatic cruise. The night will close with a festive performance by Antonio Krištofić and his band.

More Than a Competition

Parallel to the excitement of the contest runs another story—that of wine itself. On Frankopan Square, the Wine Festival will be held on Friday and Saturday, showcasing winemakers from across Kvarner, other regions of Croatia, and even Serbia. Visitors will be treated to a rich spectrum of flavors, aromas, and wine styles.

On Vinodol Statute Square, traditional crafts and a local products fair will add another layer of charm, while Saturday brings a special culinary highlight: Novljanski Pijat, a local fish dish prepared by Antonija Mikac.

Ružica Vinodola is organized by the Tourist Board of Novi Vinodolski and the Tourist Board of Vinodol Municipality, in cooperation with the City of Novi Vinodolski, the Municipality of Vinodol, the Cultural Center of Novi Vinodolski, Pavlomir Winery, the Friends of Grapes and Wine Association “Ružica Vinodola”, the Kvarner Wine Association, the Ilija Dorčić Cultural Association, and the Novljansko Kolo Division of the Chakavian Assembly.

The festival is supported by the Kvarner Tourist Board and the Croatian National Tourist Board, with sponsorship from Katarina Line, Adria Mare Travel Agency, Health and Joy Beauty Center, Bartelo Mali, API Kvarner, Leut Souvenir Gallery, Floral Atelier Zola, and Pavlomir.

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