Matulji Bell Ringer's Gathering

By tradition, on Carnival Saturday (Pusna subota) – when the entire Municipality of Matulji celebrates its birthday – the Matulji Bell Ringer's Gathering takes place. This year we celebrated the 29th edition of this unique event that brings together rich tradition, the powerful sound of bells, authentic carnival spirit, and an unforgettable celebration.

Year after year, the Bell Ringers Festival confirms its status as one of the most important carnival events in the region. Every year it gathers more than 1,500 participants and several thousand visitors from Croatia and abroad, turning Matulji into a vibrant centre of traditional heritage and great entertainment.

At the festival you can see many well-known and respected bell ringer groups that preserve centuries-old customs: Žejanski zvončari, Munski zvončari, Brežanski zvončari, Ćićski zvončari, Zvončari Vlahov Breg –Korensko, Brgujski zvončari, Grobnički Dondolaši, Halubajski zvončari, Zametski zvončari, Kurenti, Frlanski zvončari, Buše,, and others. Each group brings its own distinctive masks, costumes, bells, and rituals passed down through generations, and their joint performance creates a powerful and impressive sound and visual experience.

After the official program, the celebration continues with a large entertainment event for participants and visitors at the Matulji Amphitheatre, featuring a rich music and entertainment program. During the festival, as well as in restaurants and taverns throughout the Municipality of Matulji, visitors can enjoy authentic local delicacies traditionally prepared during Carnival – from homemade sausages, maneštra and goulash to fritule and other sweet carnival specialties.

The Bell Ringer's Gathering is not just an event – it is a meeting of heritage, community, and joy that stays in memory.

See you on Carnival Saturday in Matulji!