WHAT TO EXPECT FROM "BANJALUČKO LJETO 2025"

Outdoor cinema, water sports day, diving from the City Bridge, and a fishing competition are just some of the events awaiting visitors during the traditional “Ljeto na Vrbasu 2025” festival.

This year’s edition marks the 72nd anniversary of the beloved event, which will take place from July 13 to 27, offering a rich variety of sports, cultural, and entertainment programs.

Davor Kasapović, the event coordinator, told Glas Srpske that “Ljeto na Vrbasu” will officially kick off on July 13 at 5 p.m. with the traditional diving competition from the City Bridge.

“We’re expecting 23 participants, but the final number will be confirmed on the day of the event. Divers will come from Serbia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Last year’s winner, Igor Arsenić, will once again take part, joined by his brothers,” Kasapović said.

The same day, a fishing competition will also take place.

An open-air cinema will be set up in front of the western gate of the Kastel fortress. On July 15 at 9 p.m., moviegoers can enjoy Mission Impossible, while on July 21, the action film Megdan will be screened at the same time.

Children haven’t been forgotten either. An open-air cinema for the youngest audiences will be held in Oslobođenja Park. On July 16, the animated film Super Pets will be shown, and on July 22, the family movie Lassie 2 will be screened at 8:30 p.m.

A unique part of this year’s program is the so-called “Offline Day,” scheduled for Sunday, July 20, under the theme “Kliker, not click.”

“On that day, we encourage parents to teach their children traditional childhood games like marbles, jump rope, and trading cards. To enter the Dajak pier area (next to Club 22), phones must be put on airplane mode to avoid distractions and focus on playing together,” Kasapović explained, adding that admission is free for everyone.

The same day will also feature a water sports day, offering free dajak boat rides and dancing under the stars.

The festival will conclude with the dajak boat race on Sunday, July 27 at the Dajak pier.

Kasapović emphasized that such events, especially the diving competition, draw many people from the diaspora back to Banja Luka, and a large number of tourists is expected during the festival.