On Thursday, as part of Špancirfest, the Days of Creative Cities of Croatia were held on the stage in front of Villa Bedeković. This event brings together art, entrepreneurship, creative industries, and community. Representatives from numerous Croatian cities gathered, with the highlight of the evening being the awards ceremony in seven categories for creative and innovative cities.
The most prestigious award, Creative and Innovative City of the Year 2025, was won by the City of Varaždin. The city was recognized for its strategic approach to developing cultural infrastructure, tourism, and creative industries, particularly its internationally renowned Špancirfest.
The program began with a musical introduction, followed by a panel discussion titled “What Does It Mean to Be a Creative and Healthy City Today?” Distinguished speakers—including Eberhard Schrempf, Paula Vudrag, Selma Šogorić, and Ivana Nikolić, moderated by Elizabeta Brodić—highlighted the importance of creativity and innovation as a foundation for sustainable development and quality of life for citizens.
Competing with cities such as Zadar, Osijek, Sisak, Karlovac, Čazma, Zabok, and Zaprešić, Varaždin stood out as a leader in creative policies and community development thanks to numerous projects and initiatives that combine culture, tourism, and innovation.
In his welcoming speech, Varaždin’s Mayor, Dr. Neven Bosilj, emphasized the importance of Špancirfest and its role in promoting Varaždin as a cultural and creative hub, extending a warm welcome to all attendees.
“Welcome to Varaždin—these are the 10 best days of the year because Špancirfest is happening. The final weekend is ahead, and I hope you will stay after the awards to explore our city and all the charms of the festival,” he said.
Mayor Bosilj also highlighted Varaždin’s status as the only UNESCO City of Music in Croatia, which has opened numerous opportunities and collaborations, including a recent partnership with South Korea, whose renowned musical ensembles performed at Špancirfest.
The award was accepted on behalf of the City of Varaždin by the President of the City Council, Lovro Lukavečki, and presented by Nives Kopajtich-Škrlec from the Association of Cities. Lukavečki thanked the organizers and emphasized the importance of all individuals and institutions contributing to the city’s tourism and cultural development, particularly the Varaždin Tourist Board and its director, Jelena Toth.
“Špancirfest has become one of the city’s greatest cultural brands and part of its identity. This award is another recognition of our work and a thank-you to everyone shaping Varaždin as a city of openness and creativity,” said Lukavečki.
The award ceremony was organized by the Association of Cities and the Imagination Association, with the support of partners and sponsors. The expert jury noted that the awarded cities and projects represent the most advanced examples of integrating culture, entrepreneurship, and joint development, serving as an inspiration for other communities in Croatia. With this recognition, Varaždin strengthens its status as a cultural and innovative leader among Croatian cities, precisely during the city’s most beautiful festival period.
The evening concluded with a performance of the award-winning monodrama “Komušanje mozga” by Stojan Matavulj, which humorously and ironically explored contemporary society and male-female relationships, leaving a strong artistic impression on the audience.
Announcement: Grad Varaždin
