Šibenik has quickly become one of the most sought-after summer destinations for live music lovers in recent years. With its stunning historic backdrop, vibrant atmosphere, and a lineup of unforgettable concerts and festivals, the city transforms into a buzzing cultural hotspot every season. These events offer something for everyone, making Šibenik the perfect place to soak up the sun and the sounds of summer.
Šibenik’s Summer Music Scene
From June to September, the city’s iconic fortress, St. Michael’s, hosts a series of unforgettable open-air concerts set against sweeping sea views and medieval stone walls.Over at St. Michael’s Fortress, the program spans genres and generations: the Šibenik Wind Orchestra honors Arsen Dedić on June 26, funk virtuoso Cory Wong grooves on July 8, and the LADO Ensemble brings Croatian tradition to life on July 21.
August heats up with two nights of the SatchVai Band (August 1–2), Röyksopp DJ (August 5), the glamorous Róisín Murphy (August 7), and the legendary Parni Valjak (August 10 & 12). On August 14, it’s a double bill of poetic intensity and indie-rock power as Rundek & Ekipa join forces with PipsChips & Videoclips.
The iconic Josipa Lisac takes the stage on August 15 with her unmistakable voice and timeless artistry, while Goran Bare & Majke bring raw energy and blues-infused rock to close the main season on August 16.
The summer wraps up with the SHIP Festival (September 11–14), a four-day celebration of bold, fresh sounds from across the region and beyond.
Across the Bay: Underground Vibes at Martinska
Just a short ferry ride from Šibenik’s Old Town, the pine-covered Martinska Peninsula comes alive each summer as the city’s alternative music haven. Between July 17 and August 16, this open-air coastal stage hosts nine high-energy events spread across 18 music-filled days.The season kicks off with a deep bassline at Sea Sound Festival (July 17–20), headlined by UK legends Channel One and P.A.I.N., and powered by three independent sound systems. A week later, the punk spirit takes over with the raucous Martinska Punk Festival (July 24–26), spotlighting regional favorites like Mašinko, Kalikamo, and Urlik in a celebration of old-school anarchy and DIY ethos.
August opens with a massive milestone: the 10th edition of Membrain Festival (July 31–August 3), one of Europe’s most respected underground bass culture events, bringing together pioneers like Coco Bryce, Digital, and Nookie.
Things turn local and heartfelt on August 5 with the third edition of ŠI Gitarijada, now also a Jose Gracin Memorial -honoring the late explorer, journalist, and co-founder of Šibenik’s HGSS rescue service.
Martinska goes heavy on August 7 with the first-ever Žestoka Fešta, a full-force metal night featuring acts like Zlobnik and Radagast. The following evening, genre-defying jazz astronauts Chui land with their signature cosmic sound, followed by Slurp! Summer Clubbing on August 9, a night of pure electronic bliss with five DJs spinning into the early morning.
Croatian music legends The Beat Fleet (TBF) take the stage on August 14, merging funk, rock, and hip-hop in a high-octane performance. Finally, Preach The RIČ Festival closes out the season on August 15–16, as hip-hop icons Edo Maajka and Who See deliver sharp verses and big beats on this explosive final weekend.
Project Vojarna Open Air transforms the old Šibenik army barracks into a pulsating dance floor on August 16, bringing cutting-edge beats to an industrial backdrop.
Headliners include Brazilian techno powerhouse Victor Ruiz and global club favorite Oscar L.
Summer Jazz Vibes
This summer, Barone Fortress sets the stage for standout performances at the Barone Jazz Festival. It opens on June 20 with local electronic-jazz trio The Fogsellers, joined by guest musicians and dancers for a unique audiovisual show.On July 13, acclaimed guitarist Julian Lage makes his Croatian debut, performing with his trio just after the North Sea Jazz Festival.
Nearby Vodice Jazz & Blues Festival (July 17–19) adds more flavor with Valerija Nikolovska & D. Jakovčević Band (July 17), Raphael Wressnig (July 18), and Renato Chicco & Lori Williams (July 19).
A City Stage for Contemporary Dance
From July 14 to 19, the Šibenik Dance Festival transforms the city into a vibrant stage for contemporary dance.The festival opens at Trg Republike Hrvatske with The Process of Burning in Reverse by Portuguese choreographer São Castro, a powerful tribute to Franz Kafka’s legacy. On July 16, Contemporary Dance 2.0 by Germany’s Gauthier Dance Company, choreographed by Hofesh Shechter,brings electrifying beats and raw expression to St. Michael’s Fortress.
Barone Fortress sets the tone on July 15 with two intimate performances: Raum by William Cardoso and Cheyenne Vallejo, and Panopticon by Vasiliki Papapostolou, both exploring themes of vulnerability and personal freedom.
On July 18, the horMoans is that all there is by Beatriz Mira and Tiago Barreiros challenges identity and shame, followed by Samia by Adriano Bolognino, inspired by the story of Somali athlete Samia Yusuf Omar. The festival also features workshops for all levels, from seasoned dancers to curious newcomers. Full schedule available on the official website.
Movie Magic
Don’t miss out on the International Festival of Animated Film and Comics Supertoon that will take place in the Old Town of Šibenik from July 21- 25.Children's Festival
The 65th annual International Children’s Festival, taking place from June 14 to 28, will transform Šibenik into a vibrant playground of creativity and energy. With over 200 events on the schedule — spanning theatre, literature, film, workshops, sports, and more — this year’s edition focuses on intercultural dialogue. Tickets for performances can be purchased in advance via the official website.Local Art and Traditions
Celebrate Šibenik’s rich heritage with traditional Klapa singing every Thursday evening at Mala Loža, from July 10 to September 17.For a true taste of local life, spend a summer morning at the city’s Green Market, held three times a week, where you’ll find a wide variety of fresh domestic products and handmade goods.
Don’t miss the Handicraft Fair at Mala Loža, happening every Thursday from 18:00 to 21:00, where local artisans showcase their unique creations.
Tisno Summer Beats
Just a short drive from Šibenik, Tisno’s Garden Resort hosts a vibrant summer of world-class music festivals in a stunning seaside setting. The season kicks off on July 1 with Hospitality on the Beach, followed by Love International (July 9), Terminal V Croatia (July 17), and Outlook Origins (July 24).Defected Croatia brings house music heat from July 30, while August continues with Balance Croatia (August 8), Dekmantel Selectors (August 21), and the grand finale, Dimensions Festival, from August 28.
Expect boat parties, beach stages, and unforgettable nights under the stars.
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