Mimosa Festival in Herceg Novi 2025, Montenegro

The Mimosa Festival in Herceg Novi, Montenegro, is a vibrant event celebrating the arrival of spring with a mix of cultural, gastronomic, and floral attractions. This festival honors the blooming of the mimosa flower, a cherished symbol of renewal and beauty in the region. Held annually since 1969, the event draws thousands of visitors to this picturesque coastal town near the Croatian border.

Key Activities and Highlights

The Mimosa Festival features a variety of activities designed to appeal to a broad audience. Among the most anticipated are the festive parades and masquerades, offering a colorful spectacle for both participants and spectators. Costume competitions add a creative flair to the celebrations, while traditional Montenegrin activities such as "picigin" (a unique ball game) and the “karići” races provide a glimpse into local culture.

For sports enthusiasts, the festival includes events like a swimming championship and the Mimosa Cup in archery and shooting. Food lovers can enjoy the “Fešta od mimoze, ribe i vina,” a feast celebrating mimosa flowers, grilled sardines, and local wines, which reportedly attracts around 20,000 visitors annually. Gardeners and flower enthusiasts will appreciate the international flower exhibition, showcasing the artistry and diversity of floral arrangements.

Program and Schedule

The festival kicks off on February 14, 2025, with an exciting opening ceremony at the Plaza in front of Hotel Igalo. From 10:30 pm to 12:30 am, visitors can enjoy a spectacular concert by renowned artists Ana Bekuta and Hanka Paldum, setting a festive tone for the celebrations.

The next day, February 15, the iconic Mimosa Gathering and Fish and Wine Feast take center stage. This event, running from 10 am to 3 pm, begins with a vibrant parade featuring majorettes, the City Band, the Local Music of Đenovići, and trombonists. The parade starts at Kumbor Local Community (MZ Kumbor) and concludes at the Cultural Center (Dom kulture) in Baošići.

Visitors can indulge in freshly prepared fish and wine, a tradition made even more special by the presence of mimosa flowers, which are distributed to attendees as part of the festive spirit.

On February 16, the celebrations continue with a nighttime concert at Boca Park featuring Marco Luis from 10 pm to midnight. Music lovers will find this an enchanting addition to the festivities.

The program concludes on March 1, with the Trial of the Carnival, a theatrical and musical extravaganza symbolizing the end of the festival. This grand finale, held from 10:30 pm to 12:30 am, will feature a captivating performance by the acclaimed Croatian artist Gibonni.

Location and Nearby Attractions

Herceg Novi is located on Montenegro’s northern coast, approximately 40 minutes by car from Tivat Airport and 90 minutes from Dubrovnik Airport in Croatia. The town itself is known for its charming old town, historic fortresses, and scenic coastal views. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take a short drive to enjoy the natural beauty of Lovćen National Park.