One of the great late-season events on the Hvar calendar returns on September 11, 2019, as Dani u Vali (Days in the Bay) returns to Stari Grad for another maritime extravaganza.

One of the nice things about following a destination closely over a number of years is seeing how new events become established. When I first moved to Hvar back in 2002, for example, there was no lavender festival in Velo Grablje, and yes Croatia's most aromatic festival celebrated its 11 edition this June. There was also no Hvar Half Marathon until a decade ago. 

And so too with a delightful new festival in Stari Grad, which is now in its third year. Nicely positioned in mid-September, the third edition of Dani u Vali (Days in the Bay) has become a firm favourite during its short existence, as well as a wonderful showpiece for Dalmatian maritime and other traditions.  

This year's event will run from September 11-15 with a series of 56 exhibitions, events, concerts and MANY boats, all centred around the pretty harbour of Stari Grad, which the Ancient Greeks sailed into over 2,400 years ago. 

In addition to the traditional sailboats from the likes of Udruga Lantina, there will be plenty of other colourful characters on the water in a variety of maritime vessels. 

Hvar is, of course, home to the UNESCO-protected Mediterranean Diet, and there will be many gourmet events and tasting opportunities in the squares and restaurants around, as well as the chance to pick up some lovely local domestic products, such as Stari Grad's signature honey-based biscuit, paprenjak, pictured above. 

The sight of so many sailboats in this most pretty of harbours, especially when lit up at night, is a sight to see on its own.  

Plenty of live music.

Plenty of time to chill and enjoy the relaxed Dalmatian lifestyle on the water. 

But be prepared for the pirates on Friday night! 

You can see more information about many of the events in English on the Facebook event page. Please find below the full programme in Croatian. It promises to be a great event. 

We recently stated the month of September opens up a whole new world of traditional festivals on the Adriatic, and the islands are currently proving us right in the most spectacular fashion.