🎭 Half New Year on Korčula: A Mid-Summer Bash Like No Other

If you ever find yourself on the Dalmatian island of Korčula on June 30th, get ready — you’re in for a magical, mask-filled night that feels just like New Year’s Eve… except it happens right in the middle of summer.

Since 2001, locals and visitors have been celebrating Maškarani Doček Pola Nove Godine — the Masked Half-New Year’s Eve, a colorful tradition that turns Korčula’s Old Town into a vibrant carnival.

🌙 What Happens

• Around 8 PM, costumed participants gather at the entrance of Korčula Town and parade through its stone streets in a joyful masquerade procession.

• As the evening unfolds, the whole town becomes a party zone: DJs, live bands, brass ensembles, and performers fill the air with energy.

• At midnight, the town countdowns, there may be some fireworks over the historic skyline, signaling the start of the “second half” of the year — a spectacular summertime twist on New Year’s traditions.

• The celebration continues on Plokata Square, which transforms into one giant open-air dance floor until the early morning hours.

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🎉 Why It Exists

• The event was created by the Carnival Club of Korčula (Bonkuloviči)  as a way to bring people together through costumes, music, and pure fun.

• Locals take it seriously — many plan and prepare their costumes months in advance, teaming up with friends and family to create coordinated looks, inside jokes, or full themed groups. My family and I have our own tradition and love dressing up!

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• It offers a second chance each year to celebrate — but this time in warm weather, under starry skies, and with a distinctly Dalmatian flair.

• For tourists, it’s more than just a party — it’s a genuine local tradition rooted in community spirit, imagination, and creativity.

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✨ The Vibe

• Colorful masks, playful costumes, laughter, dancing, and a lively, carefree atmosphere.

• The celebration feels both festive and heartfelt, with performances, food, culture and families all gathering in the town.

• Unlike winter New Year’s Eve, this one has the warmth of summer, relaxed seaside energy, and a distinctly Mediterranean charm.

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📸 Why You’ll Want to Be There

• It’s Instagram gold: Group costumes, masks, a quaint seaside European town backdrop, and a town buzzing with life.

• It’s the perfect reason to visit Korčula in late June — culture, tradition, and a full-on summer party rolled into one.

• It proves that meaningful traditions don’t have to be ancient — this one is only a couple of decades old, yet beloved by all who experience it.