It's May or Svibanj in Croatian! Everyone is beginning to buzz because the summer season is right around the corner. Croatia in May is one of the best months of the year to come visit before the summer crowds begin. The weather is warm but not hot and there are plenty of fun spring events to attend. Everything is blooming from flowers to fruits and vegetables. There are still some cooler days but nothing uncomfortable so you can get outside, enjoy the sunshine, but it may be wise not to plunge into the Adriatic Sea as the water has definitely not warmed up yet.
Spring cleaning is in full force for rental apartments, villas, hotels, restaurants and other vendors as they prepare for the tourist season. All construction must finish or pause when the season begins and may not begin again until the fall. For us, this month is where we do a deep clean of our 1 Bedroom and 2 Bedroom rental apartments near the beach in Crikvenica after they have been sitting empty for a few months. We check that all appliances are in working order and get ready for our first guests of the summer to arrive.
For more about this seaon READ: Spring in Croatia
Our Lady of Zečevo - May 5
It is said that in the year 1516 Turks set fire to the church and monastery on the island of Zečevo, near the town of Nin, located outside the city of Zadar. They killed all of the monks and threw the statue of the Virgin Mary into the sea which then made it's way to shore and appeared before a widow named Jelena Grubišić and apparently the statue was seen shedding tears. Every year on May 4th, is the day of Apparition, and people of the Christian faith travel from all over to commemorate this miraculous event. On the 14th of this year, the Church Holiday of Our Lady of Zečevo is celebrated before the holiday of Ascension with a Votive Feast. There is a procession through the decorated streets of Nin with the statue of the Virgin Mary and hymns dedicated to her are sung.
Asparagus (šparoga in Croatian) is still in season for a little bit longer but if you're more a fan of fruit than you will be happy to hear that in May the cherries (trešnje in Croatian) are ready to be picked...mmm! Igor's parents have a cherry tree in their front yard in Tribalj and it gets full of this sweet fruit or voće in Croatian. The grandchildren come over and help pick the cherries and Igor's mother uses them to make homemade pastries, rakija (Croatian version of schnapps), jams and more.
There are certain foods you just have to try when visiting Croatia.
HERE is what every foodie traveler needs to know.
Adventure Race Croatia - May 12-17
One of the largest outdoor athletic events in the month of May. This 550 km race over four days includes mountain biking, paddling, running, roping and navigation. The event takes place in the northern coastal region of Croatia along the islands of Krk, Cres, Lošinj and Rab, as well as through the dense forests and mountains of Gorski Kotar. The homebase event is in the town of Baška on the island of Krk.
READ:
to learn more about travel to the islands.
Black Sheep, or Crna Ovca - May 16-18
One of the largest food festivals also happens to be in Baška this month. A festival of lamb meat, individualism, culture, sports and island heritage. The event features music, festivities, sporting events and the famous Baška lamb prepared in a variety of ways. There are also walking expeditions, workshops for both children and adults and an excellent art exhibition.
Strawberry Festival - May 17-18
Another delicious food festival takes place at the end of May in the town of Selce on the Crikvenica Riviera. Strawberries are the main ingredient for this weekend seen in any recipe from drinks to desserts. There will also be live entertainment and strawberry products to purchase.
While in Crikvenica check out our favorite places we always visit while we're there
and why Crikvenica is one of the best places for vacation!
Sea Star Festival - May 22-25
This music festival kicks off the start to the summer season at the Stella Maris Resort Plava Laguna in the city of Umag in Istria.
For more information about Istria READ our Day Trip to Istria!
Whether it's the warm, but not scorching weather, the seasonal food or an outdoor event, May in Croatia is certain to please any visitor looking for a vacation before the hustle and bustle of the masses.
North Coast Croatia Travel Agency specializes in travel to Croatia and surrounding European countries. Providing consultations, custom itineraries, pre-designed theme itineraries, summer beach rentals and a travel blog. Booking flights, accommodations, cruises, tours, rental cars, transfers, bus/train/ferry tickets, travel insurance and more!
Book a FREE 30 minute Travel Consultation with me to discuss planning your trip to Croatia!
Happy Travels! Sretan Put!
Follow us on Social Media: @northcoastcroatia
Join our Public Facebook Group:
Join our Private Facebook Groups:
and
I use affiliate links at no added cost to you.
Companies give me a small percentage of their sales if you use their link through my website.
Thank you for your support.
Comments