St Blaise Festival

Every 3rd of February

There are various festivals and events that are celebrated annually in the city of Dubrovnik. These festivals offer a great opportunity for both the locals and tourists to gather and celebrate the culture of the city. So, if you are planning to visit the city of Dubrovnik, make sure you check the calendar and find out what is happening around the time of your visit: there is sure to be something of interest.

One particularly interesting festival that takes place in Dubrovnik during the month of February is the St. Blaise Festival. The city of Dubrovnik holds St. Blaise in high esteem because he is the patron saint of the city. According to folk stories, St. Blaise appeared to an aged vicar in Stijko and warned the people of Dubrovnik that the Mletians were planning to launch an attack on the city. Because his prophecy came true, the people of Dubrovnik decided to make him the patron saint of the city.

The celebration of the St. Blaise Festival was established quite some time ago. During the time of the Republic, the prisoners in Dubrovnik who were jailed for light crimes were allowed to join the festivities. Citizens who had been expelled from the Republic were also allowed to return and take part in the celebrations for two whole weeks.

Today, the St. Blaise Festival has become a culturally significant event that is celebrated with pride and lavish events and activities. During the festival, the relics of St. Blaise are carried along the streets of Dubrovnik in a grand procession, and the city celebrates the occasion with plays and artistic performances.