Autumn is a season full of events, and in this article, we will focus on those combining gastronomy and sports. And hopefully inspire you to take a one-day or week-long trip and experience the magic of autumn in one of Croatia’s most enchanting regions. And where might that be? Well, in Istria, of course!
To make your visit to Istria complete, why not rent one of our villas in Istria? Our cozy villas will provide you with an ideal place to rest after days spent at events.
Events
Grape Harvest Days
Location and date: Buje, September 18th – 20th
For more than 100 years, Grape Days have brought the scents of the harvest and the spirit of times past to the streets of Buje. Celebration lasts three days and there will be events for all generations: sports tournaments, children’s games, cultural programs and concerts. Celebrate the harvest with the locals and enjoy the blend of tradition and wine.
Extempore: international painting event
Location and date: Grožnjan, September 24th – 27th
Every autumn, Extempore turns Grožnjan into an open-air art studio. It is organized in cooperation with the local Italian Community and the Municipality of Grožnjan. Artists from Croatia and abroad paint on given themes, exhibit their works and mingle with the audience. There are also concerts, tastings of local products and themed walks through the town.
Wine & Walk by the sea
Location and date: Novigrad, September 26th
Novigrad welcomes autumn the Istrian way: with a glass of wine, local food and a walk through nature. The route is 10km long and passes through the town’s historic centre, the promenade, vineyards and olive groves. Wine & food stations will be scattered throughout the route and winemakers and restaurants from the Novigrad area will be showcasing their products. For details on the programme and tickets, check out the event page.
Umag Run
Location and date: Umag, Stella Maris, October 3rd
Umag Run is one of the best known sporting events in Istria. Every autumn it gathers runners of all ages and fitness levels. You can choose between a half marathon, a 10.5 km race and a Fun Run (5 km), and there are also children’s races. The route runs along the sea and through town, and a party with a DJ follows after you cross the finish line. You can count down to the race on the Umag Run page.
Festival of Teran Wine and Truffles
Location and date: Motovun, October 17th – 18th
Autumn is a perfect time to celebrate two special Istrian treasures: teran and truffles. Come and taste wines and truffle dishes, and discover the gourmet side of Istria. The festival brings together top winemakers, truffle producers and distributors. Delicious food will be accompanied by good music of course. Follow the Motovun Tourist Board’s page for details about the festival.
Chestnut Festival
Location and date: Oprtalj, October 17th – 18th
This event turns Oprtalj into the center of Istria every autumn. Warm up with classic roasted and boiled chestnuts, then dare to try honey, brandy, cakes and pasta made with chestnuts. Every year, exhibitions, lectures, concerts and activities for the youngest are organised. The programme for this year’s Chestnut Festival will soon be published on the event’s page.
Mushroom Days
Location and date: Novigrad, Porporela, October 17th – 18th
If you’re in Novigrad, be sure to visit the famous exhibition of Istrian mushrooms organized by the Mycological Society “Russula”. Bring your recipe book and try imaginative mushroom dishes. The essential mushroom stew, paired with Istrian wines, will be a highlight for sure.
In addition to the rich food and wine scene, Istria offers so many other experiences and attractions. That said, it’s a shame to stay there for only a few days. In the fall, the temperatures are more pleasant, the days are shorter, the crowds are fewer and the prices are lower. All this can be a recipe for an ideal vacation.
Some have already taken their annual vacation, and some have wisely waited for this time of year. While you are visiting the fall events, take the opportunity and book your dream week in Istria right now. Our villas in Buje, Motovun, Novigrad and Tinjan are waiting for you!
