July the 23rd, 2026 – Rolling Stone UK has recommended the much-loved Croatian cultural festival Špancirfest as a great summer festival, spotlighting Croatia away from the beach.
It’s one of the best-loved Croatian cultural festivals, and now it has received international recognition after Rolling Stone UK included Špancirfest among its recommendations for unforgettable summer experiences in Croatia. Held each August, far from the sea in the historic streets of Varaždin, Špancirfest has built a reputation as one of the country’s most distinctive festivals, combining live music, street theatre, art, food, workshops and performances that transform the entire city into an open-air stage.
The inclusion by Rolling Stone UK places Špancirfest alongside some of Croatia’s best-known summer attractions, highlighting the country’s growing reputation not only for its coastline but also for its vibrant cultural scene.While Croatia is often associated internationally with beaches and islands, festivals like Špancirfest continue to attract visitors looking for authentic cultural experiences away from the Adriatic coast.
Unlike many music festivals held in a single venue, Špancirfest spreads throughout Varaždin’s picturesque Baroque old town. Historic squares, narrow streets and courtyards become performance spaces for musicians, artists, acrobats, comedians and street performers, creating an atmosphere that encourages visitors to wander through the city and discover something new around every corner. The programme traditionally includes concerts by Croatian and international artists, children’s entertainment, artisan markets, gourmet food stalls and interactive workshops, making it one of Croatia’s most family-friendly festivals.
showcasing northern croatia and a festival far from the coast and islands
For Varaždin, the recognition represents another opportunity to introduce international travellers to a region that is often overlooked by visitors heading directly to the Adriatic coast. Known for its elegant Baroque architecture, rich history and vibrant cultural calendar, the city has become one of Croatia’s leading destinations for cultural tourism. The beloved Špancirfest plays a central role in that reputation, drawing tens of thousands of visitors every year and providing a significant boost to local businesses, restaurants and accommodation providers.
International recognition from Rolling Stone UK also reflects a broader shift in how Croatia is being promoted abroad. Increasingly, international media are highlighting the country’s festivals, gastronomy, inland destinations and cultural heritage alongside its world-famous coastline. For travellers planning a summer trip, Špancirfest offers a chance to experience a different side of Croatia, one filled with music, creativity and historic charm in one of the country’s most beautiful continental towns. As Croatia continues to diversify its tourism offering, festivals like Špancirfest are helping demonstrate that some of the country’s most memorable summer experiences can be found far from the gentle waves of the Adriatic Sea.
