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New Year’s Day

New Year’s Day 2026 and 2027

Most Croatians take the day off work, and New Year’s Eve too if they can, to celebrate with family and to attend special New Year’s events.

YearDateDayHoliday
20261 JanThuNew Year's Day
20271 JanFriNew Year's Day
Please scroll down to end of page for previous years' dates.

The largest and most boisterous New Year events in Croatia tend to take place in Dubrovnik, but every locality has its events. Families gather to talk, eat, and await the coming of midnight. Parties may last into the early hours of the morning on 31 December, which is why 1 January may be a time when many sleep in.

The most unusual New Year tradition in Croatia is the annual New Year’s Day swim in rather cold, if not freezing, water. This tradition is followed by those living along the Adriatic Sea coast. You may see them chilled in the water, popping champagne bottles, and donning Santa hats all at the same time.

Previous Years

YearDateDayHoliday
20251 JanWedNew Year's Day
20241 JanMonNew Year's Day