A cabin in the woods in Gorski kotar. Giant snowflakes slowly dance outside; I go out into the yard covered in snow, my breath is icy at -15; I take a log to throw in the fireplace. The fire crackles, and somewhere outside you can hear Christmas carols. The Christmas tree flickers, I wrap myself in a blanket and wait… for an unexpected visit, a lovely company or I’m satisfied being on my own with a book in my hands. That’s how I imagine Christmas. And you?

Hahaha… reality is always slightly different. Sweltering winter, the sun scorching us at 15 degrees, radiators grunting with displeasure, and I don’t need a blanket while I’m watching the Croatian political soap opera on TV. It would be better to do a shot just to calm down.

Aaaah, no no no!

Here are 5 great ideas how not to let the sun, Grinch, and Božo Petrov steal your and my Christmas Eve and Christmas Day! Spoil yourselves – you’ve earned it!

Coffee on the go!

At the Marlene stand on the European Square at you can enjoy tasty coffee with added liquors. We tried the hazelnut. De-lish!

Champagne and bites!

Take a walk to Dežman bar for Christmas Morning Bubble Beats. For the Christmas Eve morning hangout, they have prepared winter cocktails, bubblies, and Louis Barthelemy champagne served in glasses along with some great finger food. And musical treats courtesy of DJ Hrwo. Thursday, 24 December, from 10 a.m.

Last minute shopping!

You are still missing some gifts or Christmas decorations? Take a walk about a hundred meters towards the Square to Butlers in Ilica, and there you will find: hamburger-shaped tree bulbs, gorgeous lamps in the form of stars, a white Christmas tree, candelabra, and much more.

Hot chocolate

We went to the opening of Moscow in Kurelčeva and had a great time. Definitely visit the Moscow house to grab the best hot white chocolate with vodka. It will warm every heart and soul. Don’t overdo it! One cup will do!

Ice skating and fritters

In the Ice Park at Tomislav Square, you’ll find the best ice and the best kind of fun in the form of skating. Feel free to wake up the Katarina Witt in you. You have to find a way to spend all those calories we’ve mentioned anyway… and to find room for more. Take a walk to the next Advent destination – Zrinjevac, and look for the stand of Bar45, where you can eat some yummyyyy fritters.

Translation: Nevena Erak

Photo: Lidija Šeatović for MLZ, archive MLZ