January 14, 2023 - A video appreciation of a festival that even most Croats have never heard of - the outstanding Biklijada young red wine and goat milk festival in Vrgorac. 

Croatia does niche, local and authentic festivals like no other in my experience, with many of these festivals little known outside the local area. Croatia also has some of the best wine in the world, and some of the strangest wine-drinking practices.

Put all the above together, and are we surprised that there is a drink called Bikla, which is a mix of red wine and goat milk, and a festival to celebrate Bikla? I checked it out in September 2022, and I got way more than I bargained for, including having to send my videographer into another country to film the only available goat, while I was treated to a ride in Tito's former limousine which he used from Split Airport to his Split villa to a quite extraordinary place I had never heard of.

Never heard of bikla? Curious to know what happens at a bikla festival? Fasten your seatbelts and enjoy the latest video from the Paul Bradbury Croatia Expert YouTube Channel. 

Having experienced some rather unusual local festivals in my time here, I am on the lookout from some unusual local festivals to cover, such as Biklijada. The edible dormouse festival on Hvar was another memorable one. If you know of any interesting and unique festivals and would like to share, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Subject Festivals. 

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Bikla, a drink made from red wine and milk, is so popular in the Vrgorac region that a festival is dedicated to it.

This year´s Bikla Days will take place on the first weekend in October at the playgraound of the Vrgorac elementary school. Here is a short notice from the Vrgorac Tourist Board Facebook page.

Friday (October 2, 2015) - "Zagora Gori" Festival - music by Silente and Quasarr

Saturday (October 3, 2015) - 16th Biklijada - The biggest and funniest folk feast in Inland Dalmatia

For more information about Bikla, read our article and for more information about Biklijada, contact the Vrgorac tourist Board.