BANJALUKA WINTER MAGIC OFFERS MORE THAN 100 EVENTS

The winter market “Zimzobal” was officially opened in Petar Kočić Park in Banjaluka, marking the beginning of a festive season that will run until January 5, 2026. Over the next several weeks, visitors can expect around 300 hours of cultural and artistic programming and more than one hundred individual events.

“Zimzobal,” organised as part of the richly curated “Banjaluka Winter” festival, welcomed countless visitors who once again chose to experience the unique holiday atmosphere in the heart of the largest city of Republika Srpska.

Hundreds of lanterns, a lively Christmas market, cheerful elves, Santa Claus, and a variety of gifts for the youngest visitors are just a small part of the magical winter scene that has arrived in Banjaluka.

Banjaluka Mayor Draško Stanivuković joined residents and guests from across the region at the opening ceremony, emphasising the effort and dedication invested in creating another memorable winter market.

“Winter isn’t only for the mountains — it belongs to Banjaluka as well. We work hard to provide quality content through a series of events starting today. Families meet here, many guests come. We have prepared numerous surprises. At the beginning of this winter magic, I want to wish everyone happy holidays and invite them to come here, to the city centre. The parks we renovated have a special look this year. New Year’s Eve is also very important to us, and we expect a big turnout,” said Stanivuković.

Milada Šukalo, the City’s project manager, added that Banjaluka’s residents will enjoy more than a month of diverse entertainment.

“Another magical season in Banjaluka is beginning. Interest from both our citizens and tourists is exceptional. Tonight we open our ‘Zimzobal’ winter market, where we will offer more than 300 hours of various programmes — from educational to entertaining — for all our visitors, both on weekdays and weekends. I want to highlight that this year we aimed to elevate the event even further by introducing new features and experiences. Our hospitality providers have also prepared something new, giving visitors the chance to try things they’ve never had before,” Šukalo said.