Festivals and Entertainment

Mostar Old Bridge Diving Festival: A Thrilling Tradition You Can’t Miss

Experience the Daring Leaps at One of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Oldest Festivals

Diving off the Old Bridge (Stari Most) in Mostar is not only one of the most iconic events in Bosnia but also one of the oldest festivals in the region, with a tradition that dates back over 450 years. Originally a daring feat performed by young locals, this exhilarating event has grown into a global spectacle that attracts divers and spectators from around the world. The Old Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, serves as the perfect backdrop for this incredible tradition, and each year, crowds gather to witness skilled divers leap into the cold Neretva River below.

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A Must-See Event in the Peak of the Summer Season

The Old Bridge Diving Festival traditionally takes place at the end of July, right at the height of Mostar’s summer tourism season. The festival draws large crowds from Bosnia and Herzegovina and beyond, offering an unforgettable blend of adventure, tradition, and local culture.

Since 2015, the Old Bridge has also become a major stop in the prestigious Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. This event has raised the profile of the festival, bringing the world’s best cliff divers to Mostar. The 2025 edition of the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series will take place on September 5-6, 2025, with divers performing stunning acrobatics from heights of up to 27 meters.

Global Competitors and Unforgettable Views

Every year, the Old Bridge Diving Festival attracts the best divers from around the globe to compete in front of thousands of spectators. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply someone who enjoys the mesmerizing view of the Neretva River, this event offers an unforgettable experience. The competition features several diving categories, including head-first and feet-first dives, and participants showcase incredible skill and bravery as they plunge into the fast-moving waters below.

Explore Mostar: History, Culture, and Beauty

While the Old Bridge Diving Festival is the main attraction, Mostar itself offers a wealth of cultural and historical experiences. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Mostar is home to charming streets, traditional cafes, and local shops. The Old Bridge itself offers stunning panoramic views of the city, the river, and the surrounding landscapes. Before or after the festival, be sure to explore the rich history and vibrant life of Mostar.

Where to Stay During the Festival

With the festival attracting thousands of visitors, Mostar offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel with views of the Old Bridge or a quaint guesthouse in the heart of the city, you’ll find plenty of options within walking distance of the festival venues. Be sure to book early, as this is one of the most popular events in the region.

 Don’t Miss This Incredible Experience in 2025

If you’re planning a summer trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina, don’t miss the chance to witness the Old Bridge Diving Festival in Mostar. Whether you’re attending the traditional diving competition at the end of July or the thrilling Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series in September, this is an event that should be at the top of your travel list.

Plan your visit to Mostar now and experience one of the most exciting and historic festivals in the world!

Una Regatta 

Experience Bosnia’s Premier Rafting Adventure in Una National Park

Dates: July 23–26,
Location: Martin Brod → Štrbački Buk → Bihać → Bosanska Krupa

 What is Una Regatta?

The Una Regatta is an internationally renowned rafting and cultural event held annually in the pristine Una National Park, near Bihać, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Celebrating its 51st edition in 2025, this four-day festival combines white-water rafting, live music, traditional cuisine, and cultural festivities, attracting adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the globe.

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2025 Route & Schedule

• Day 1: Martin Brod → Štrbački Buk

• Day 2: Štrbački Buk → Bihać

• Day 3: Bihać → Bosanska Krupa

Each day features exhilarating rafting stages led by experienced skippers, ensuring both safety and excitement. Evenings are filled with entertainment, including live music, traditional dances, and local culinary delights.

Event Highlights

• Thrilling Rafting Stages: Navigate the emerald waters of the Una River through its most scenic and challenging sections.

• Cultural Festivities: Enjoy evening programs with live performances, traditional dances, and local gastronomy.

• Community Engagement: Connect with participants from around the world, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and cultural exchange.

• Safety First: Professional guides and support teams ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

Why Visit Una National Park?

• Natural Beauty: Home to turquoise waterfalls, dense forests, and crystal-clear rivers.

• Biodiversity: A haven for diverse flora and fauna, offering unique ecological experiences.

• Cultural Heritage: Rich in history and tradition, providing insights into Bosnia’s vibrant culture.

Kozara Ethno Festival 

Step Into the Living Traditions of Potkozarje, Near Banja Luka

Dates: First week of July 
Location: Piskavica Village, Potkozarje Region, near Banja Luka

What Is the Kozara Ethno Festival?

The Kozara Ethno Festival is a vibrant celebration of the heritage, customs, and folklore of the Potkozarje region, nestled near Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Held every July in the picturesque village of Piskavica, this festival brings centuries-old traditions to life through ethno music, traditional dance, folk theatre, and authentic costumes.

A Journey Into Bosnian Village Life

Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of rural Bosnia, where local performers, artisans, and storytellers share the ancestral customs of Potkozarje. Visitors can enjoy:

• Traditional Ethno Music
• Folk Dance Performances
• Theatre Reenactments of Historical Customs
• Displays of Traditional Dress and Handicrafts

Taste the Tradition

One of the festival’s highlights is its authentic Potkozarje cuisine. From slow-cooked stews to fresh-baked pastries, you’ll experience the flavors of rural Bosnia, lovingly prepared by locals using time-honored recipes.

Why Visit Piskavica & Potkozarje?

• Located just outside Banja Luka, the region offers a peaceful escape into nature and tradition

• Home to a rich cultural legacy and welcoming local communities

• The festival provides an intimate, non-commercialized experience of Bosnia’s roots

Who Should Attend?

Perfect for:

• Cultural travelers and heritage seekers
• Families looking for immersive learning experiences
• Photographers, storytellers, and documentarians
• Anyone looking to escape the tourist trail and discover authentic Bosnia

International Art Colony Počitelj 

Southeast Europe’s Oldest Art Colony in the Heart of Herzegovina

Dates: July annually
Location: Počitelj, Herzegovina, Bosnia and Herzegovina

 Where Art Meets History

Founded over 50 years ago, the International Art Colony in Počitelj is the oldest art colony in Southeast Europe, drawing painters, sculptors, and creatives from around the world. Every July, this historic stone town on the banks of the Neretva River becomes a hub of creativity, cultural exchange, and artistic inspiration.

A Global Gathering of Artists

The event brings together renowned and emerging artists to work, exhibit, and live side-by-side in the enchanting ambiance of Počitelj. The town’s unique Ottoman-era architecture, natural light, and stunning vistas provide the perfect setting for open-air studios, impromptu exhibitions, and creative collaborations.

Expect:

• Live painting sessions and art demonstrations
• Workshops and talks by participating artists
• Pop-up exhibitions in historical venues
• Networking opportunities for art lovers, collectors, and creatives

Why Počitelj?

• A UNESCO-recognized historic village known for its preserved medieval and Ottoman architecture

• Overlooks the turquoise Neretva River, offering breathtaking views and an inspirational landscape

• A quiet yet captivating destination located just 30 minutes from Mostar

Who Should Visit?

• Art lovers and collectors
• Photographers and cultural travelers
• Artists and students looking for inspiration
• Visitors seeking unique experiences beyond traditional tourism

Sarajevo Winter Festival

Celebrating Art, Culture, and Olympic Legacy in the Heart of Bosnia

Dates: February–March
Location: Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

A Festival Born from the Olympic Spirit

The Sarajevo Winter Festival is the oldest and most iconic festival in Sarajevo, originally launched in honor of the 14th Winter Olympic Games held in Sarajevo in 1984. Since then, it has grown into a world-class celebration of art, culture, and international friendship, lighting up the city each February and March.

A Global Stage for Artistic Expression

Each year, artists and performers from across the globe gather in Sarajevo to showcase a wide range of artistic disciplines. The festival includes:

•  Concerts & Classical Music Performances
•  Dance Shows & Contemporary Performances
•  Theatre Plays & Multimedia Productions
•  Fine Art & Photography Exhibitions
•  Film Screenings & Cultural Panels

Spanning indoor venues and public spaces across the city, the festival transforms Sarajevo into a vibrant winter hub of creativity.

Sarajevo – A City of Culture and Snow

• Nestled between the Olympic mountains of Jahorina, Bjelašnica, and Igman
• A unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures
• Host city of the 1984 Winter Olympics, with a deep cultural and historical legacy

Who Should Attend?

• Art & culture enthusiasts
• Winter travelers looking for an offbeat destination
• Festival-goers eager to explore music, theater, and visual arts
• Anyone seeking to experience Sarajevo’s charm during its most artistic season

Youth Festival Međugorje

A Global Spiritual Gathering for Young People

Dates: August 4–8,
Location: Međugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Theme: “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” (Psalm 122:1)

About the Festival

The Youth Festival (Mladifest) in Međugorje is one of the world’s largest spiritual events for young people, welcoming over 50,000 participants from around the globe. Held every August, it celebrates faith, peace, friendship, and cultural dialogue at the site of the third-largest Catholic pilgrimage in the world.

What to Expect

• Daily Masses and multilingual prayers

• Spiritual music, youth choirs, and catechesis

• Testimonies, adoration, and candlelight processions

• Pilgrimages to Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain

The 2025 festival aligns with the Jubilee Year and creates a uniquely powerful atmosphere of spiritual renewal.

Who Should Attend?

Perfect for youth groups, pilgrims, and anyone seeking faith, unity, and meaningful connection in a peaceful, international setting.

Baščaršija Nights 

Sarajevo’s Iconic Summer Festival of Art, Culture, and Tradition

Dates: July 1–31, (Month-Long)
Location: Baščaršija, Old Town Sarajevo

A Festival That Fills the Streets with Life

Every July, Baščaršija, the historic heart of Sarajevo, hosts the month-long Baščaršija Nights Festival. This vibrant celebration transforms the Old Town into an open-air cultural hub, filling the city’s summer nights with music, art, and tradition. With performances at various venues across Sarajevo, the festival highlights the city’s unique blend of East and West, attracting visitors from around the globe.

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A Rich Program of Cultural Events

Baščaršija Nights features a diverse lineup, including:

• Traditional Bosnian and World Music Concerts
• Opera, Ballet, and Classical Performances
• Poetry Readings and Theater Shows
• Art Exhibitions
• International Folklore Festival, featuring dance troupes from around the world

This year’s festival promises to continue its tradition of offering a rich cultural experience for all visitors.

Why Baščaršija?

• Baščaršija is Sarajevo’s cultural and historical center, showcasing Ottoman charm, cobbled streets, and picturesque courtyards.
• A unique setting where Eastern and Western cultures blend seamlessly.
• A lively atmosphere with cafes and local shops, offering a true taste of Sarajevo.

Who Should Attend?

Baščaršija Nights is perfect for:

• Cultural travelers and art lovers
• Families and visitors seeking authentic local traditions
• Fans of live performances, dance, and music
• Anyone wanting to experience Sarajevo’s charm in its most magical summer atmosphere

Sarajevo Jazz Festival 

One of Southeast Europe’s Premier Jazz Events

Dates: November 6–9, 
Location: Various Venues, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

A Celebration of Jazz in the Heart of Sarajevo

Since its inception in 1997, the Sarajevo Jazz Festival has grown to become one of the most popular music events in Southeast Europe and beyond. Held annually in November, this international festival brings together innovative jazz artists from around the world for an unforgettable series of late-night performances and concerts.

The festival is a highlight of Sarajevo’s cultural calendar, attracting jazz lovers from all over the globe to enjoy cutting-edge music in one of the most vibrant cities in the region. Performances are hosted at various iconic venues across Sarajevo, offering an intimate and dynamic setting for jazz enthusiasts.

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What to Expect

The Sarajevo Jazz Festival offers a world-class program that includes:

• Late-Night Jazz Performances
• Venues Across Sarajevo, from intimate clubs to larger concert halls
• Innovative Music Genres: Contemporary jazz, fusion, experimental performances
• Special Collaborations and Live Jam Sessions

The festival showcases both renowned jazz legends and emerging artists, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience every year.

Why Sarajevo?

• Sarajevo is a city where Eastern and Western cultures merge, making it the ideal backdrop for the diverse and cosmopolitan vibe of the festival.
• The city has a rich jazz heritage, with a strong community of local musicians and jazz lovers.
• The Sarajevo Jazz Festival creates a unique cultural experience where both local and international visitors can immerse themselves in the world of contemporary jazz.

Who Should Attend?

The festival is perfect for:

• Jazz enthusiasts and music lovers
• Travelers looking for a unique cultural experience in Bosnia
• Those seeking to discover cutting-edge jazz talent in a vibrant, energetic city
• Night owls who enjoy late-night performances in intimate settings

Summer on the Vrbas 

Banja Luka’s Ultimate Summer Festival of Sports, Culture & Adventure

Dates: Second half of July  (Exact dates TBD)
Location: Kastel Fortress, Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina

What Is Summer on the Vrbas?

Summer on the Vrbas is Banja Luka’s signature summer celebration, held annually since 1953. Set against the historic backdrop of Kastel Fortress, this festival blends adrenaline-pumping sports with vibrant cultural entertainment, offering something for everyone.

Festival Highlights

• Kayak & Dayak Races – Traditional boat races on the Vrbas River

• Bridge Diving – Daring jumps from the City Bridge

• Live Music & Concerts – Featuring local and regional artists

• Cultural Performances – Folklore, theater, and dance

• Art Exhibitions & Workshops – Showcasing local talent

• Food & Craft Stalls – Offering local delicacies and handmade goods

• Zip Line – Thrilling rides over the fortress walls (typically available daily from 17:00 to 20:00)

MESS International Theatre Festival 

Sarajevo’s Premier Festival of Experimental Theatre and Modern Dance

Dates: October 3–12, (TBC)
Location: Various venues across Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

About MESS

Founded in 1960 by renowned theatre director Jurislav Korenić, the MESS International Theatre Festival is the oldest living theatre festival in the Balkans. Originally known as the Festival of Small and Experimental Stages of Yugoslavia, MESS has grown into a leading platform for innovative theatre and contemporary dance. The festival has a strong tradition of artistic experimentation and cultural exchange, offering performances in their original languages from across Europe and beyond.

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What to Expect

The MESS Festival will feature a dynamic program that includes:

• Experimental Theatre Performances

• Modern Dance Productions

• Film Screenings

• Workshops and Discussions

• Exhibitions

• Ticketed and Free Events

Performances take place at various venues across Sarajevo, including the Bosnian National Theatre and Sarajevo War Theatre (SARTR), providing intimate, immersive experiences for audiences.

Why Attend?

• Cultural Significance: Experience performances that reflect the rich cultural diversity of the Balkans and beyond.

• Artistic Innovation: Witness cutting-edge theatre and dance that challenge traditional boundaries.

• International Collaboration: Engage with artists and audiences from diverse backgrounds.

• Historic Context: Participate in a festival with a long history of resilience and artistic excellence, even during difficult times like the Siege of Sarajevo.