We recently celebrated Kotor’s world-famous Winter Carnival, a day of masquerades, costumes, music, performances and more taking place through the Old Town’s streets. Carnival has largely remained the same for its over 500 years of existence, aside from the expected contemporary additions such as DJs and special Instagram moments.
Carnival draws locals and visitors of all ages, and it’s the most well-known and highly-anticipated event in Boka Bay.
Winter Carnival 2019
This year, just as for the majority of the more than half millennium of the carnival’s history, the event commenced with a flag-raising ceremony in St. Tryphon Square, lifting Kotor’s banner into the morning sky. It’s the square of the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, the patron saint of Kotor. Construction on this marvelous wonder began in 1124, and the church was consecrated in 1166.
The flag-raising ceremony was followed by the international procession and children’s masquerade (a costume parade of performances, fun for the entire family and onlookers of all ages). Afterwards, the festivities stretched on throughout the day.
As per tradition, the night before was the Masquerade Celebration, with revelers meandering the Old Town’s cobblestone -covered streets for a night of music, dancing, drinks and celebrations. Many Masquerade-goers spend significant amounts of time creating original costumes of their own and many decide to go out as groups in themed attire. It’s a jovial atmosphere in a unique location- one that shouldn’t be missed!
Join Us for Summer Carnival August 2019
Considering how long Winter Carnival has been around, you may be surprised to learn Summer Carnival is significantly newer. The summertime celebration made its debut 18 years ago to grant more visitors the opportunity to attend the event.
Kotor’s Old Town is dedicated to cultural events and the arts for virtually the entire summer. There’s the two-week long Kotor Festival of Theatre for Children with theatrical and musical performances on the Old Town’s walls, in Old Town city venues and in the squares… there’s Kotor Art with everything from performances by opera singers and classical musicians to jazz musicians and more popular music fare… the city of Kotor literally transforms into a theater, conjuring stories of Ancient Rome.
The weather is right, the Adriatic Sea is ripe for swimming and the city plays host to visitors from all around the world. It’s no wonder our hotel is typically fully-booked well in advance!
Experience Summer Carnival for yourself; book early to secure a room. Visit alone, with friends and family– or for a romantic getaway for two. Our attentive, friendly staff is here to help you create a set of wonderful new memories. Immerse yourself in the history, culture and splendor of Kotor and its fjord-like bay.
Call or email us today: +382 32 311 000 | +382 67 209 847 | +382 67 209 847 (Viber) | CattaroHotel@t-com.me .