Kestenijada (Chestnut Festival) – Oprtalj 2026 (Saturday)

🌰 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 – SATURDAY 🎶 All-day music programme with No Limit Band 🌰 All-day offer of chestnuts, chestnut cakes and desserts, as well as special dishes featuring chestnuts ST. BELVEDER SQUARE 10:00 — Chestnut Focaccia Workshop by Mića Kužinica A creative culinary workshop dedicated to chestnuts and fragrant homemade focaccia. 12:00 — Official Opening of Kestenijada Below the town walls: planting of chestnut trees in cooperation with the “Pod Kostanjom” association. Performance by the Babići Brass Band and Umag majorettes. ST. GEORGE SQUARE 12:30 — Panel Discussion: “Chestnuts as Heritage That Deserves a Future” 13:30 — Cultural and Entertainment Programme and Introduction of the Kestenijada Mascot – “Kes” 15:00 — “Little Chefs” Children’s Workshop by Sanja Bilas Vegainsta Young participants become real little chefs and discover the fun of preparing chestnut purée through play. LOGGIA 17:00 — PUB QUIZ Gather your team, test your knowledge and have fun at our pub quiz! BELVEDER SQUARE 18:30 — KLAPA TERAN CONCERT 🎶