(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
By Paulina Mlinarić
Rijeka once again embraced the spirit of carnival as thousands of children filled the city centre during the annual Children’s Carnival Parade, one of the most joyful and meaningful events of the Rijeka Carnival season.
Held on 31 January, the parade transformed the Korzo into a vibrant stage of colour, music and imagination, reaffirming Rijeka’s reputation as one of Europe’s leading carnival destinations.
More than 6,500 children took part, organised into 71 carnival groups from across Croatia and abroad, while large crowds of residents and visitors lined the city’s main promenade to watch the spectacle unfold.
(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
The parade showcased an impressive variety of costumes and performances.
(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
Children appeared dressed as fairy-tale and cartoon characters, animals, historical figures and symbolic creations, accompanied by music, dance and theatrical choreography.
(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
Majorettes and cultural and artistic associations further enriched the programme, adding rhythm and tradition to the event.
The largest participating group was Srdočki školani, who marched with more than 500 participants under the slogan “Hoću RI, hoću JE, hoću KA: MI SMO RIJEKA!” (“I want RI, I want JE, I want KA: We are Rijeka!”), delivering a strong message of local pride and belonging.
(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
The Children’s Carnival Parade holds a special place within the Rijeka Carnival programme, highlighting the importance of passing on tradition to younger generations.
(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
Beyond entertainment, the event plays a vital role in cultural education, strengthening community ties and preserving the city’s unique carnival identity.
(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
Carnival tradition in Rijeka has deep historical roots, while its modern form has been developing since the early 1980s.
(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
Today, the Rijeka Carnival is recognised as one of the most significant carnival events in Europe and is a member of the Federation of European Carnival Cities (FECC). Each year, it attracts thousands of participants and visitors from around the world.
(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
Following the children’s parade, carnival celebrations in Rijeka continue with a rich programme of cultural and entertainment events.
(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
The highlight of the season is expected in mid-February, when the International Carnival Parade will bring together more than 10,000 participants from around 100 carnival groups.
(Photo: Paulina Mlinarić)
Once again, the Rijeka Carnival has proven that it is far more than a local celebration. It stands as a powerful symbol of the city’s identity and creativity, transforming Rijeka into one of the liveliest and most joyful destinations on the Adriatic during the winter months.
