By George Sabljak: Tom Pandžić, an Australian of Croatian heritage, is bringing his passion for electronic music back to his roots with a new festival called Balance Croatia, set on Croatia’s coastline.
Croatia has in recent years become one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for music festivals, especially along the Adriatic coast.
One of the latest additions to the summer calendar is Balance Croatia, hosted at The Garden Resort in Tisno, and led by festival founder and DJ Tom Pandžić.
The event will take place from 7–11 August 2025 and is already drawing global attention.
From passion to global stage
Pandžić never sought fame. His journey began with an obsession for music — listening, discovering, and mixing — which evolved into a full-time career spanning more than two decades.
As co-founder of the influential Balance Music record label in Melbourne, he helped shape Australia’s electronic scene and collaborated with top artists worldwide.
“Music was always a key part of my life,” he reflects. “I didn’t chase influence or stardom — I just kept doing what I love. To now see it recognised and supported in such a way is incredible.”
Tisno: the natural home for Balance
His parents’ migration story helped shape the ethos behind the festival. Leaving Croatia in the early 1970s, his mother (Borka) and father (Ivan) moved to Australia in search of better opportunities.
“They were very proud of their Croatian heritage,” he said. “I always knew where we came from, and I felt a strong need to give something back.”
That connection is what sparked the idea for Balance Croatia.
“We wanted to build something beautiful and lasting, in a place with such natural beauty, welcoming people, and cultural depth. Tisno was the obvious choice — not just because of my roots, but because it’s one of the most magical spots in Europe.”
The festival site at The Garden Resort in Tisno has previously hosted acclaimed events such as Love International and Defected Croatia.
Pandžić sees Balance Croatia as the next evolution — a boutique experience that combines quality music with heritage and community.
Collaboration with locals
Crucial to the event’s launch was support from the local community, including partnerships with Croatian event professionals like Željka Barišić, who is based in Osijek.
“We’ve had outstanding local co-operation. People here are generous with their time and energy,” said Pandžić.
The line-up will feature a curated mix of underground electronic acts, combining international names with rising stars.
But it’s not just about the music. “We want this to be a space for expression, culture, and connection — not just another party,” he added.
Australians returning to their roots
Pandžić estimates over 5,000 people from all over the world will travel to Tisno for the festival, many of them second- or third-generation Croatians eager to explore their ancestry while enjoying a unique event on the Adriatic.
“This isn’t just about tourism or nightlife,” he explained. “It’s about creating a platform for cultural exchange.
Australians with Croatian roots get to reconnect with their heritage, and locals get to share their homeland with a global audience.”
Looking ahead
With strong early interest and local backing, the future of Balance Croatia looks bright.
“This is just the beginning,” Pandžić says. “We’re planning for next year already. The response has been overwhelming.”
He concluded with a message of unity: “Festivals are about more than music. They bring people together across borders and generations. And there’s no better place to do that than here in Tisno — one of the most beautiful corners of the world.”
Many of the tickets have already sold out and remaining packages are selling fast you can still get yours here: Balance Croatia Ticket Sales