Kestenijada (Chestnut Festival) – Oprtalj 2026 (Sunday)

🌰 KESTENIJADA – OPRTALJ 2026 This year, Kestenijada lasts for two full days! Oprtalj will fill with the irresistible aroma of roasted chestnuts and turn into a charming autumn hub of delicious food, music, tradition and good company. 🍂🌰 Kestenijada is one of the most recognizable autumn events in the Oprtalj area and the first and only event of its kind in Istria, dedicated to chestnuts and the abundance of autumn fruits. Held since 2009, it has grown into a must-visit autumn gathering for lovers of chestnuts, local flavours and the authentic Istrian atmosphere. Chestnuts will take centre stage in every possible form – roasted, boiled, in savoury and sweet dishes, cakes, pasta and many other delicacies. Visitors can also enjoy local products such as chestnut honey, local wines and a rich gastronomic offer celebrating the star ingredient of the event. But Kestenijada is not just for food lovers! Expect live music and entertainment, activities and creative workshops for children, exhibitions and presentations, local products, autumn flavours and great company – and, of course, the irresistible aroma of freshly roasted chestnuts filling the streets of Oprtalj. Located 378 metres above sea level, Oprtalj is especially beautiful in October. Autumn colours, views over the Istrian landscape and the scent of chestnuts create the perfect setting for an autumn weekend getaway. 🍁 🌰 KESTENIJADA – SUNDAY 🎶 All-day music programme with Istriano Band 🌰 All-day offer of chestnuts, chestnut cakes and desserts, as well as special dishes featuring chestnuts ST. GEORGE SQUARE 09:00 — Guided Walk Along the Chestnut Trails 12:30 — Cultural and Entertainment Programme Performances by the children of Milan Šorgo Kindergarten and Primary School in Oprtalj, together with other guests, followed by a rich programme for all generations. 14:00 — Grand Chestnut Gastro Show by Antonio Brajković A culinary show dedicated to the king of autumn – the chestnut! 15:00 — “Mini Gardens” Plant Terrarium Workshop A creative workshop with prior reservation. OLD TOWN CENTRE 15:30–17:30 — Children’s Workshop 🔎 The Great Chestnut Hunt with the “Kesten” Mascot Fun, games and adventure for our youngest visitors! BELVEDER SQUARE 15:00–20:00 — MAMBO KINGS CONCERT 🎶 A spectacular finale to the Sunday programme with Mambo Kings! LOGGIA 🍲 Game stew tasting organized by the “Vepar” Hunting Association 🍄 Mushroom exhibition organized by the Bujština Mushroom Association 🐝 Bujština Beekeepers’ Association corner