Pride, Tradition and the Future of the Croatian Community in Australia
Photos: S.Fantov from the Folklore Festival
A Spectacular Evening of Culture and Unity
On Saturday, 7 June 2025, the grand National Theatre in St Kilda, Melbourne, hosted the third annual Croatian Folkloric Arts Festival. It was a moving celebration of Croatian heritage, pride and intergenerational unity. The event brought together an impressive almost 400 Croatian folkloric performers from across Australia. They showcased the strength and beauty of cultural traditions passed down through generations.
The festival was expertly organised by FA Hrvatska Zora, FG Mladi Hrvati and HFA Zvonimir. These groups once again demonstrated that Croatian culture is thriving in Australia.
An Emotional Opening in a Full House
The packed theatre fell silent as the red curtain rose. It revealed all performers standing proudly for the joint rendition of the Australian and Croatian national anthems. From that moment, it was clear this evening would be unforgettable.
The evening’s host, Robert Špoljar, set a warm and engaging tone. He guided the audience through the programme and shared insights about the Croatian regions represented through dance, song, and traditional costume.
A Celebration in Two Acts
The festival featured two parts, each rich with choreographed performances and vibrant traditional expressions. The event began with a joint welcome song performed by all dancers:
“Dobro došli, mili gosti!” (Welcome dear guests!)
Highlights from the First Act Included:
- Songs and Dances from Baranja – HFS Lenek, Adelaide
- Međimurje Songs and Dances – HFA Zvonimir (junior group)
- Zadar Dance (Zadarski tanac) – FG Mladi Hrvati (junior group)
- Children’s Games from North-Western Croatia – FA Hrvatska Zora (junior group)
- Međimurje Dances – FA Hrvatska Zora (junior group)
- Kolo from Ražanac – HFA Zvonimir (preparatory group)
- Podravina Wedding Dance – AHFG Linđo
- Baranja Songs and Dances – ACFG Braća Radić
Second Act Highlights Included:
- “Ladarke” – LADO CFE Western Australia
- Posavina Songs and Dances – FG Mladi Hrvati (preparatory group)
- Baranja Dances – FA Hrvatska Zora (preparatory group)
- Slavonian Folk Dances – HFG Mladi Frankopani
- Međimurje Dances – HKUD Lado Geelong
- Jaska Region Dances – HFG Domovina, Sydney
- “Ero s onoga svijeta” – FG Mladi Hrvati
- Zagorje Songs and Dances – HFA Zvonimir
- Posavina Folk Dances – FA Hrvatska Zora
Alongside song and dance – and in addition to beautiful a cappella performances – several folkloric groups were accompanied by their own talented music ensembles.
These musicians played traditional instruments with heartfelt expression and authenticity. They brought each performance to life. Their live accompaniment added a rich, emotional layer to every step on stage. This weaved music and movement into a true celebration of Croatian heritage.
An Emotional Grand Finale
The emotional peak of the evening came with the final joint performance of the traditional song “Hote spat”, where all 377 performers returned to the stage. The audience rose to their feet in a standing ovation, moved by a powerful display of cultural unity, pride and passion. Tears of joy and heartfelt applause marked the moment – a reminder that the future of Croatian folklore in Australia is in safe hands.
Preserving Tradition – Thank You to All Who Make It Possible
Some video from the Folklore Festival FA Hrvatska Zora Facebook.
Everyone we spoke to shared the same sentiment – spectacular, extraordinary, absolutely beautiful.
From the organisers to the performers, the sense of pride and joy was unmistakable. The evening exceeded all expectations, leaving many simply speechless. Smiles, applause, and heartfelt emotions were the true measure of just how much this event meant to everyone involved.
A festival of this scale would not be possible without the dedication and passion of many. Deep thanks go to the organisers, who meticulously planned every detail. Thanks also to the guest ensembles who travelled from across Australia. The sponsors and supporters deserve special mention for recognising the value of cultural heritage in our modern lives.
We also honor the folklore teachers, who tirelessly guide young performers and preserve these traditions with heart and commitment. Let us not forget the parents who bring children to rehearsals. Some help iron traditional costumes. Others assist backstage and support every step of these folkloric journeys.
It is because of them that Croatian folklore continues to thrive across the Australian continent.
After Party in the Spirit of Community and Celebration
Following the formal concert, the celebration moved to the hall of the Croatian Catholic Centre of St Leopold Bogdan Mandić in Sunshine. The venue was beautifully decorated and guests were greeted warmly by their hosts.
A lavish buffet dinner, prepared by Your Private Chef, delighted all attendees. This set the stage for a night of music and dancing. The popular band Major Minor kept the dance floor full, bringing joy to all generations.
Children Lighting Up the Dance Floor
One of the most touching sights of the Folklore Festival was seeing children on the dance floor. They were singing, dancing and celebrating with uncontainable excitement. Some sat on the shoulders of older friends like seasoned concert-goers. Others ran joyfully through the crowd, simply smiling ear to ear. Their energy and joy captured the true heart of the festival. It signaled that Croatian culture will live on through the next generation.
The evening also featured a generous raffle, bringing extra excitement and smiles to the lucky winners. It wouldn’t be a true fešta if every hand didn’t join in a kolo!
A kolo that emptied the tables and chairs, and brought every guest to their feet! The celebrations continued into the late hours with laughter, music and community spirit.
A Night to Remember
This was truly a night to remember. It once again confirmed that Croatian folklore in Australia is not just a tradition, but the beating heart of a vibrant, proud community.
As the hosts warmly said:
“Dobro došli, mili gosti, s nama dobro podilili!”
(Welcome dear guests, thank you for sharing this with us!)
Related story: Croatian Folklore – The Beating Heart of the Croatian Community