v     OPEN-AIR NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATIONS

In the past decade, it became a tradition in Croatia to celebrate the arrival of New Year on main city squares with famous performers taking part and ringing in the New Year with visitors, continuing with the open-air party till early morning hours. Tens of thousands of locals and visitors enjoy in music and entertainment, and Croatian TV stations have non-stop live coverage from major cities throughout Croatia. New Year's Eve on Stradun in Dubrovnik, on Jelacic Square in Zagreb, Korzo in Rijeka, just the few possibilites if you happen to be there during this festive time of the year.

v     INTERNATIONAL NEW YEAR'S REGATTA

Hvar, December 28-31

New Year's Regatta became a tradition on Hvar, "the sunniest island in Croatia"  (average of 2,726 sunny hours per year), so there is a good chance that regatta days will take place on a sunny day. Regatta is organized every year from December 28 to December 31, when the final race takes place. Being an international event, it follows the rules of IYRU (International Yacht Racing Union).

v     WINTER PACKAGES IN HOTEL MILLENIUM IN OPATIJA

Hotel Millenium in beautiful Northern Adriatic resort town of Opatija, offers special packages during this month's holiday season.

"Magical Christmas" is a 5-night package based on half board (Dec 21-26). It includes mulled wine upon arrival, Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas Day lunch, kids mini-club with Santa picture taking and spa pass for a day.

"New Year" package is a 3-night special with buffet breakfast daily, champagne on arrival, New Year's Eve Gala Dinner with champagne, Dinner on New Year's Day, gift for every room, kids activities, Raffle with great prizes.

For prices and more information visit hotel web site, www.ugohoteli.hr/milenij

v     VISIT ZAGREB

Zagreb is a capital of Croatia, and a great cultural center to visit year-round. During December Holiday season, there are many street fairs with Christmas gifts to buy, special holiday performances in city opera and many concert halls, as well as local theaters with many different shows. www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr

v     GORSKI KOTAR - GREEN HEART OF CROATIA

Gorski Kotar is relatively less known region of Croatia located in the continental part, just half an hour drive from the Northern Adriatic Coast. With parks of nature and rich wooded areas, it is a great alternative for coastal vacation. During winter months, ski-lovers can enjoy in any of ski-resorts, like Platak or Bjelolasica. Other outdoor activities, like hiking or biking, are also popular all year long. www.gorskikotar.com