Why Croatian Kids Love Holiday Season
In Croatia, holidays are a big part of family and community life. Many of these special days are connected with Catholic traditions, while others are national holidays celebrated across the country.
Religious Holidays and Celebrations
Two of the most important Catholic holidays in Croatia are Christmas and Easter. These are times when families come together, schools close, and communities celebrate.
- Christmas break usually lasts three weeks.
- Easter holiday gives students ten days off from school.
In addition to these major holidays, every town or village in Croatia belongs to a parish with its own church. Each parish is named after a saint, and every saint has a special day on the calendar. When that day arrives, people celebrate what’s called the feast of the patron saint.
In coastal areas of Croatia, these events are known as “fešta”, while in continental regions, they are called “kirvaj.” On these days:
- Families host large feasts with lots of traditional food and drinks.
- Friends and neighbors come to visit and celebrate.
- Some towns even have mini-carnivals or traveling carousels!
National Holidays in Croatia
Besides religious celebrations, Croatia also has several important national holidays, including:
- New Year’s Day (January 1st)
- International Labor Day (May 1st)
- Croatian Statehood Day (May 30th)
- Antifascist Uprising Day (June 22nd)
- Day of National Gratitude (August 5th)
On these days, schools and most workplaces are closed, allowing families to rest, travel, or take part in community events.
Croatian holidays are about more than just taking time off—they are about togetherness, tradition, and celebrating local culture. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet Easter with family or joining in the music and fun of a parish “fešta,” holidays in Croatia are always meaningful.
If your child is curious about Croatian culture, Dinolingo offers fun and interactive lessons that introduce Croatian holidays, language, and traditions in a kid-friendly way.