Like every year, a number of Rijeka’s cultural institutions are preparing their own special holiday programmes during Advent. In addition to an abundance of events in the city squares and streets, the magic of Advent will be enhanced by the Croatian National Theatre Ivan pl. Zajc and the Croatian House of Culture, along with other cultural and art institutions such as Art-Kino and the Rijeka City Puppet Theatre, which will enrich the holiday days in Rijeka with special performances, concerts and programmes. Follow their official digital platforms and communication channels to remain in the loop regarding the Advent programmes they have organised – from gala concerts and plays to special Christmas events. Follow the programmes on their official websites.

The beloved Santa’s choo-choo train will once again pass through Korzo this winter, bringing joy to young children. It will begin its magical journey on 5 December, offering rides until 11 January every day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. From 19th to 23rd December, the choo-choo train will operate an hour longer from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., so that more children can enjoy the ride. The choo-choo train will not take any passengers on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day (December 24, 25, 31 and January 1, respectively) in order to provide Santa Claus and his elves with some downtime. Morning rides are intended for preschoolers and school children, requiring reservation in advance at the Tourist Information Centre (TIC), while afternoon rides are available for everyone. Much like every year, the rides are free of charge. Nursery and primary schools can make reservations from 8 November, with the first rides starting on 5 December 2025.