Chestnut Festival
Autumn in Istria is unimaginable without chestnuts, but only in Oprtalj can you experience Kestenijada, a gastronomic event celebrating this fragrant autumn delicacy.
On 17 and 18 October, Oprtalj will once again be all about chestnuts. Visitors can look forward to two days filled with music, gastronomy, workshops, cultural and entertainment programmes, and activities for all generations.
Throughout both days, visitors can enjoy a wide selection of chestnuts, chestnut cakes and desserts, as well as traditional dishes featuring chestnuts.
SATURDAY | 17 October
All-day music programme with No Limit Band
All-day selection of chestnuts, chestnut cakes and desserts, and traditional dishes featuring chestnuts
BELVEDERE SQUARE
10:00 | Chestnut Focaccia Workshop by Mića Kužinica
A creative culinary workshop dedicated to chestnuts and fragrant homemade focaccia.
Registration is required.
12:00 | Official opening of the 16th Kestenijada
Beneath the town walls, chestnut trees will be planted in cooperation with the “Pod Kostanjom” association.
The opening ceremony will be accompanied by a performance by the “Babići” Brass Band and Umag Majorettes.
ST. GEORGE'S SQUARE
12:30 | Panel discussion “Chestnuts as Heritage That Deserves a Future”
13:30 | Cultural and entertainment programme and introduction of the Kestenijada mascot – “Kesten”
15:00 | “Little Chefs” Children's Workshop by Sanja Bilas Vegainsta
Young participants become real little chefs and discover the joys of preparing chestnut purée through play.
The workshop is free of charge, but registration by email is required.
LOĐA
17:00 | Pub Quiz
Get your team together, test your knowledge and have fun at the pub quiz!
Registration is required.
BELVEDERE SQUARE
18:30 | Klapa Teran Concert
SUNDAY | 18 October
All-day music programme with Istriano Band
All-day selection of chestnuts, chestnut cakes and desserts, and traditional dishes featuring chestnuts
10:00 | Guided Walk Along the Chestnut Trails
Explore the chestnut trails accompanied by expert guides.
Registration is required.
ST. GEORGE'S SQUARE
12:30 | Cultural and entertainment programme
A programme featuring children from the “Milan Šorgo” Kindergarten and Primary School in Oprtalj, as well as other guests, with activities for all generations.
14:00 | Veliki Kesten Gastro Show by Antonio Brajković
A culinary show dedicated to the king of autumn – the chestnut!
15:00 | “Mini Gardens” Plant Terrarium Workshop
Registration is required.
OLD TOWN CENTRE
15:30–17:30 | Children's Workshop – The Great Chestnut Hunt
The youngest visitors can look forward to fun, games and a real little adventure with the “Kesten” mascot!
BELVEDERE SQUARE
15:00–20:00 | Mambo Kings Concert
LOĐA
15:00–20:00 | Wild Game Stew Tasting
Organised by the “Vepar” Hunting Association.
Mushroom Exhibition
Organised by the Bujština Mushroom Society.
Bujština Beekeepers' Society Corner
REGISTRATION
Advance registration is required for the workshops, guided walk and pub quiz.
Registration: tz@oprtalj.hr
See you in Oprtalj at the 16th Kestenijada!
Climb the hill and visit this charming autumn festival that will take you back to your childhood!
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