The 58th Valpovo Summer festival concluded at the end of June with a full-day programme dedicated to tradition, cultural heritage, and community, bringing together numerous participants and visitors in Valpovo.
In the morning, an Eco-ethno Fair was held outside the Prandau-Normann Castle, where local and regional exhibitors presented handicrafts, traditional products, souvenirs, and local delicacies. Alongside the fair, a presentation of indigenous dishes from the Valpovo region took place: members of the KUD "Šokadija" from Ivanovci, Marjančaci, and Zelčin offered visitors cakes and traditional dishes prepared according to recipes passed down through generations.
One of the most festive moments was the traditional parade of folklore groups and Šokac carts. The city streets showcased the splendour of folk costumes and traditional customs, with many residents and visitors greeting the participants along the route.
At the Prandau-Normann Castle, the Folklore Festival then took place, featuring not only Croatian groups but also guests from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, and Bulgaria, further confirming the international character of the event.
Ahead of the parade, the mayor, Matko Šutalo, received representatives of the cultural and artistic societies participating in this year's festival at the Matija Petar Katančić Cultural Centre, presenting them with commemorative gifts and certificates of appreciation.
The finale moved to King Tomislav Square, where the band Vigor performed. The packed square sang along with the band throughout the entire performance.
