Events calendar

This year's Castrum Vallis presents contemporary artistic interpretations of the theme "Traces".

62nd Castrum Vallis Opens at "Ulika" Gallery

Ulika Gallery in Bale will open the 62nd edition of Castrum Vallis on Saturday, 25 July at 8:00 PM. For more than six decades, this traditional art exhibition has held an important place on Istria's cultural scene. Over the years, it has left a lasting mark not only on the artistic life of Bale, but also in the memories of the many artists and visitors who have shaped and followed it.

This year's edition brings together selected artists working in painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing and photography, united by the theme "Traces." The theme invites reflection on what remains behind people, time and places. A trace may be physical, emotional, symbolic or social. It may be visible or only subtly perceived, preserved in landscapes, architecture, memories or the artistic process itself. This openness encourages diverse interpretations and contemporary artistic approaches. Through their works, the artists explore what remains after us and the many ways in which the past intertwines with the present.

For 62 years, Castrum Vallis has fostered a dialogue between artists, place and audience, transforming Bale into a meeting point of contemporary visual art and rich cultural heritage each summer. Every new edition brings fresh artistic perspectives and reaffirms Bale's important place on Istria's cultural map.

We invite all art lovers to join us at the exhibition opening and discover how this year's artists have responded to the theme "Traces" through their own artistic expression.

Exhibition Opening

Saturday, 25 July 2026, 8:00 PM

Location

"Ulika" Gallery, Bale-Valle

The exhibition remains open until 15 August 2026.

The legendary jazz festival returns to Bale.

From 1 to 4 August 2026, Bale once again becomes a meeting place for jazz lovers from around the world. The Last Minute Open Jazz Festival, one of Croatia's longest-running and most respected jazz festivals, has been bringing outstanding Croatian and international musicians to the historic heart of Bale for more than two decades.

Founded through the enthusiasm of the Jazz Konoba Kamene Priče, the festival has grown into one of Bale's signature cultural events. This year's edition once again offers four evenings of exceptional live music under the stars, combining contemporary jazz, outstanding performers and the relaxed atmosphere that has made the festival so distinctive.

The 2026 programme features artists from Croatia, Slovenia, Brazil and Poland, presenting a diverse range of jazz styles, from contemporary jazz and vocal performances to improvisation, fusion and world music influences.

Festival programme

Saturday, 1 August
DžeZZva feat. Marko Vuksanović (Slovenia / Croatia)

Sunday, 2 August
Viviani Godoy Trio (Brazil)

Monday, 3 August
Unleashed Cooperation (Poland)

Tuesday, 4 August
Shuffle Truffle (Austria / Croatia)

The Last Minute Open Jazz Festival is the result of a long-standing collaboration between the local community and partners who share a passion for outstanding live music. The festival is supported by the Municipality of Bale, the Bale Tourist Board, Jazz Konoba Kamene Priče, the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Croatia, and the Austrian Cultural Forum, which supports the festival's closing evening on 4 August.

Join us for four unforgettable summer evenings of world-class jazz in the unique atmosphere of Bale.

Dates: 1 – 4 August 2026
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Tomaso Bembo Square, Bale
Admission: Free

Music, dancing and summer energy return to the streets of Bale.

One of Bale's most anticipated summer evenings is back. On Tuesday, 4 August 2026, the traditional Bale Night will once again bring great music, lively entertainment and a festive atmosphere under the summer sky. The highlight of the evening will be a concert by Danijela Martinović, while Night Express Band will keep the energy going with performances before and after the headline show.

Danijela Martinović, one of Croatia's best-known singers, has delighted audiences for decades with her timeless hits. Alongside her concert, Night Express Band will complete the musical programme with energetic performances of Croatian and international favourites, keeping the dance floor alive late into the night.

For many years, Bale Night has been one of the highlights of Bale's summer calendar. It is an evening when locals and visitors come together to celebrate summer with music, dancing and good company.

Alongside the live performances, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities for all ages. Food and drink stands, family-friendly entertainment and activities for children will create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the evening.

Join us for a memorable summer evening filled with music, dancing and great company in the heart of Bale.

Date: Tuesday, 4 August 2026
Location: School's playground
Performances: Danijela Martinović and Night Express Band
Admission: Free

A musical theatre story inspired by the spirit of Bale.

As part of the 6th Bembo Fest, the remarkable setting of Fort Forno will host the musical theatre production One Beautiful Night in Bale, written by Marijana Nola and directed by Robert Raponja. The performance begins at 9:00 PM and will be presented in English.

Blending music, theatre and storytelling, the performance takes the audience on a journey inspired by Bale, its atmosphere and the people who shape its unique character. The cast features Anastasia Groshko, Juraj Devin, Lara Živolić Agaj, Davor Tarbuk, Jure Černeha, Lorenzo Radović, Ivor Lakić and Domagoj Dobrila, creating a memorable theatrical experience in the extraordinary setting of Fort Forno.

Once again, Bembo Fest brings together theatre, music and cultural heritage through performances in distinctive locations. Staged at Fort Forno, this production offers audiences the opportunity to experience live theatre in one of Bale's most remarkable historic landmarks.

Join us for an evening where theatre, music and the unique atmosphere of Fort Forno come together for an unforgettable experience.

Date: Friday, 7 August 2026
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Fort Forno, Bale
Performance: One Beautiful Night in Bale
Performance language: English
Admission: Free

A musical theatre story inspired by the spirit of Bale.

As part of the 6th Bembo Fest, the remarkable setting of Fort Forno will host the musical theatre production One Beautiful Night in Bale, written by Marijana Nola and directed by Robert Raponja. The performance begins at 9:00 PM and will be presented in English.

Blending music, theatre and storytelling, the performance takes the audience on a journey inspired by Bale, its atmosphere and the people who shape its unique character. The cast features Anastasia Groshko, Juraj Devin, Lara Živolić Agaj, Davor Tarbuk, Jure Černeha, Lorenzo Radović, Ivor Lakić and Domagoj Dobrila, creating a memorable theatrical experience in the extraordinary setting of Fort Forno.

Once again, Bembo Fest brings together theatre, music and cultural heritage through performances in distinctive locations. Staged at Fort Forno, this production offers audiences the opportunity to experience live theatre in one of Bale's most remarkable historic landmarks.

Join us for an evening where theatre, music and the unique atmosphere of Fort Forno come together for an unforgettable experience.

Date: Friday, 7 August 2026
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Fort Forno, Bale
Performance: One Beautiful Night in Bale
Performance language: English
Admission: Free