THE SCENT OF ROASTED CHESTNUTS RETURNS TO KOSTAJNICA: “KESTENIJADA 2026” BRINGS THREE DAYS OF TRADITION AND GOOD FOOD

Kostajnica will celebrate chestnuts, traditional cuisine, handicrafts, folklore and community spirit from October 9 to 11, when the tourist, cultural and economic event “Kestenijada 2026” returns with a rich three-day programme for visitors of all ages.

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First held in 1998, the festival was inspired by one of Kostajnica’s greatest natural treasures – its forests of sweet chestnut trees, which have become one of the symbols of this area.

CHESTNUTS – A SYMBOL OF KOSTAJNICA

Over nearly three decades, Kestenijada has grown into a recognizable event combining gastronomy, tradition, culture and the promotion of Kostajnica as a tourist destination.

Roasting and tasting chestnuts will once again be an essential part of the festival, filling the town with the unmistakable aroma of autumn.

The programme begins on Friday, October 9, with an exhibition of traditional women’s handicrafts and an exhibition of artworks by pupils of Petar Mećava Primary School. The evening will conclude with a folklore programme at the National Library.

TRADITIONAL DISHES, COOKING COMPETITION AND LIVE MUSIC

The main programme takes place on Saturday, October 10. An exhibition of souvenirs, handicrafts and honey will be held in the town park from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

At noon, the “Kestenijada Cauldron” cooking competition begins, with participants competing in the preparation of traditional paprikaš stew. The programme also includes a competition for the best-decorated Kestenijada table.

From 2 p.m., visitors will have an opportunity to discover and taste traditional dishes from the Kostajnica region, accompanied by live music. The winners will be announced at 6 p.m., followed by the presentation of diplomas and prizes.

“KESTENBAL” FOR THE YOUNGEST VISITORS

The festival continues on Sunday, October 11, with another exhibition of souvenirs, handicrafts and honey.

At 2 p.m., pupils of Petar Mećava Primary School and children from the “Kestenko” Children’s Club will take part in “Kestenbal”, featuring a parade and a special children’s programme.

Kestenijada 2026 will conclude at 7 p.m. with a screening of the humanitarian film “Svi za Kosmet – ma gde bili”.

The event is organized by the Tourist Organization of the Municipality of Kostajnica, under the patronage of the Municipality of Kostajnica. Its aim is to promote the area’s natural, cultural and gastronomic heritage while further developing Kostajnica’s tourism offer.