NIGHT OF FORTRESSES 2026
KRIES
Zadar proudly carries the title of a World Heritage city, having been inscribed on the UNESCO list specifically for its fascinating fortification architecture. The central part of this historical defensive system consists of the city walls and the mighty Forte fortress, located at the very entrance to the old city center. This Renaissance fortress, built in the second half of the 16th century under Venetian rule, is known today among locals and visitors alike as a favorite green oasis - Vladimir Nazor Park.
We invite you to join us on May 9, 2026, at Forte Fortress for a new edition of the Night of Fortresses event. This year’s evening is extra special as we are joined by the Brlog Cooperative Brewery, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary!
The main goal of the Night of Fortresses is to raise awareness about the importance of this significant fortification, which served as a key defensive point for Zadar for centuries. Beyond its unquestionable architectural value, this year’s edition places special emphasis on the blend of cultural and natural heritage. Vladimir Nazor Park, established directly upon the foundations of the Renaissance fortress, now holds the status of a protected monument of park architecture and represents a unique meeting point of history and nature in the heart of the city.
Program Schedule:
4:00 PM - 10:00 PM Craft Market (Brlog)
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Children's Games (Night of Fortresses)
- Compass Navigation for younger groups – Zarus Scout Association (Night of Fortresses)
- Azimuth Navigation for older groups – Zarus Scout Association (Night of Fortresses)
- Zelena Dota (Green Dowry): Educational workshop on plant species – Natura Jadera (Night of Fortresses)
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Games for Adults (Brlog)
6:00 PM - 6:35 PM Children's Puppet Show: The Little Dinosaur – Zadar Puppet Theatre (Night of Fortresses)
8:00 PM - 9:00 PM Themed Guided Tour: A Lantern Walk Through the History of Forte Fortress – "Svjetlost fenjera" Association & City of Zadar Department of Culture and Sports (Night of Fortresses)
9:00 PM - 12:00 AM Lantern Exhibition: A light installation featuring authentic historical lanterns – "Svjetlost fenjera" Association (Night of Fortresses)
Music Program:
5:00 PM DJ Mario Kovač (Brlog)
7:45 PM Študija: Vocal-instrumental ensemble from the Department of Ethnology and Anthropology, University of Zadar (Night of Fortresses)
8:30 PM Jeboton (Brlog)
10:30 PM KRIES: Ethno-rock fusion of traditional and modern sounds (Night of Fortresses)
12:00 AM - 1:00 AM DJ Mario Kovač (Brlog)
Event Host & Moderator: Martina Validžić