Njoki and London Štangle

CroatiaFest is excited to continue the tradition of live cooking demonstrations again this year with something sweet and something savory!

At 1:30 Neva Dominis and Alenka Dunatov will be showing how to make gnocchi (njoki), which requires finding the right balance between the moisture in the potatoes and the amount of flour added to yield the perfect texture. These potato dumplings can be combined with savory sauces to create a variety of tasty dishes.

At 3:30 Sisters Marija Mataja and Antonija Stipetić will be creating a sweet treat called London Štangle. This cookie bar has layers of crust, jam, and meringue sprinkled with walnuts and is often served at Christmas.

The Town and Country Markets Cooking Stage can be found on the 3rd Floor East Loft #3 at the Seattle Center Armory

A LEGACY IN COSTUME

A highlight of this year’s gallery is a remarkable collection of museum-quality Croatian folk costumes, generously donated by Larry Weiner to the Seattle Junior Tamburitzans. These garments—representing various regions of Croatia—are a feast for the eyes, featuring handwoven fabrics, elaborate embroidery, and distinctive decorative elements unique to their places of origin.

Folk costumes (narodna nošnja) have long been an essential expression of Croatian identity, with styles shaped by centuries of regional tradition. Worn during festivals, weddings, and community celebrations, they tell stories of local craftsmanship and artistry. For decades, the Seattle Junior Tamburitzans have preserved this heritage on stage, introducing new generations to the music and dance of Croatia while keeping the spirit of these costumes alive. Larry Weiner’s generous gift ensures that these pieces of living history will be cherished and shared for years to come.

Martin Koenig

The work of renowned folklorist, ethnographer, and photographer Martin Koenig will also be featured in the gallery of CroatiaFest on Sunday, October 5th at the Seattle Center Armory.

Beginning in the 1960s, Koenig traveled extensively through Eastern Europe, documenting traditional music, dance, and daily life—much of it in rural communities untouched by modern change.

His striking black-and-white photographs capture moments of joy, resilience, and human connection: a village dance in full swing, farmers at work in the fields, children learning the steps of an ancient kolo. At CroatiaFest, visitors will have the rare opportunity to see Koenig’s images of Croatian communities alongside his broader body of work, offering a visual record of traditions that, in some cases, have all but disappeared.

In addition to the photo exhibit, Seattle Jr. Tamburitzans Artistic Director John Morovich will conduct a special interview with Martin Koenig at the festival, exploring his decades of experiences documenting Croatian folklore through photography, audio recordings, and film. This conversation take place in the 3rd Floor West Loft Room #1A at 4:30 on October 5th and will offer audiences a deeper understanding of Koenig’s fieldwork and the importance of preserving intangible cultural heritage for future generations.

Marko Pavela

At CroatiaFest, we are excited to welcome Marko Pavela, who will share stories and adventures from his many travels to Croatia. His presentation will focus on active travel or adventure tourism opportunities in our beautiful homeland, with a focus on adventures available within the Cetina River valley, in the inland southern part of the country. The presentation will include options for climbing, rafting, via ferrata, and more.

Marko was raised in Bridgeport, Connecticut by Croatian immigrants and vividly remembers hearing Croatia’s national anthem for the first time during the 1992 Summer Olympics—a moment that sparked his lifelong bond with his parents' homeland. Since 2001, he has visited Croatia 11 times, embracing its landscapes and culture and cultivating familial relations. Marko moved to Olympia, Washington in 2014, where he now works as an attorney and lives with his wife and young daughter. Marko is passionate about outdoor recreation and uses his spare time to seek adventures outdoors, big or small.

Be sure to make your way upstairs to the 3rd Floor West Loft #1A at 2:45pm to take in this unique and engaging presentation of the adventurous opportunities that Croatia has to offer.

IVANA PRPIĆ

CroatiaFest Planning Committee is pleased to announce the recipient of the 2025 Featured Young Croatian Award to Ivan Prpić of Vancouver, BC, Canada.

Ivana was born to proud Croatian parents who encouraged her to learn about her heritage from a very young age. Her father Milan moved to Canada with his family as a young man from Ličko Cerje, Croatia; her mother Suzi was raised by Croatian parents who never let her forget where she was from. This meant that, growing up, Ivana was keenly aware of the importance of staying connected to her Croatian roots.

Ivana joined Tamburaski Orkestar Kardinal Stepinac (TOKS) when she was in second grade and even travelled with TOKS to the very first CroatiaFest in 2004 - she has attended nearly every CroatiaFest since then.

TOKS has been a massive part of her life for 20 years and counting - she has experience playing multiple different instruments in the orchestra and enjoys dancing and singing during choreographed suites. In 2015, she took on a leadership role as Dance Instructor, where she has the great honor of teaching choreographies to the group every year.

Outside of her involvement with the Croatian community of Vancouver, Ivana currently works as a speech-language pathologist for a non-profit organization that supports children with complex support needs.

Ivana will be presented the award at CroatiaFest on Sunday, October 5th at the Seattle Center Armory by Croatian Ambassador Pjer Šimunović. 

KENNETH A. MALICH

Kenneth A. Malich entered the world in Tacoma on February 7, 1946, and came home to Gig Harbor a few days later. From that day forward, Gig Harbor remained the center of his life and the place where his roots grew deep.

Ken serves on the boards of the Slavonian American Benevolent Society, the Harbor History Museum, and the Skansie Netshed Foundation. He also co-founded the Sister City Council, linking Gig Harbor to Milna on the island of Brač, Croatia—just across from the smaller town of Sumartin, where many Gig Harbor families trace their origins.

Ken has also stepped up to welcome Croatian dignitaries. In 2013, then–Prime Minister Zoran Milanović visited after hearing that Gig Harbor’s streets bore Croatian names. Ken offered to give him a tour. What began as a small plan turned into a major celebration, complete with speeches from the Prime Minister, the mayor, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer, port commissioners, and community leaders. The Prime Minister left with a deeper understanding of why so many from the Dalmatian coast chose Gig Harbor.

During the pandemic, Ken helped organize the Slavonian American Benevolent
Society’s (SABS) 120th anniversary celebration at Joe Carr Park in Tacoma, near the Slav Hall. He gathered several old-time commercial fishermen to share their stories of the fishing industry at the event.

In September 2023, Ken welcomed Croatia’s Foreign Minister, Gordan Grlić Radman, leading a tour of the Harbor History Museum and the Skansie Netshed. That same year, he organized a groundbreaking event for SABS—bringing Renee Pea from the Croatian Consulate in Los Angeles to Tacoma to process Croatian citizenship applications locally. No one in Tacoma attempted such an event before. Ken arranged lodging, office space, meals, and transportation for the visiting staff. The result: a large group of new Croatian citizens were sworn in .

From his early fishing days to his decades of civic leadership, from hosting prime ministers to tracing family roots, Ken Malich has worked to strengthen both his hometown and his heritage. His life shows the value of perseverance, service, and pride in one’s origins. Gig Harbor is richer because Ken never stopped giving back. CroatiaFest honors him for preserving and celebrating the Croatian spirit in the Pacific Northwest.

Ken will be presented the 2025 Outstanding Croatian Award by Croatian Ambassador to the United States Pjer Šimunović on Sunday, October 5th at the Seattle Center Armory.

VIDEO PRESENTATION BY DALIBOR MARTINIS  

Dalibor Martinis, a conceptual and media artist, will present his latest video project, “Leaving=Arriving”, at CroatiaFest on October 5, 2025 on the 3rd floor in West Loft #1A of the Seattle Center Armory.

Dalibor was born and lives in Zagreb, Croatia. He graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in Zagreb, has been exhibiting since 1969, and has been working with video since 1973.  Leaving=Arriving is an art documentary film exploring the cyclical nature of migration through personal stories from the Croatian island of Vis.

Whether departing or arriving, each story carries echoes of resilience, loss, and quiet strength. The people of Vis, the returnees, and the newcomers are all part of a shared human story — one that speaks of risk, identity, and the search for belonging. The film was shot on Vis, in Edmonds and Everett Washington, and in San Pedro California.

NEW THIS YEAR

A variety of stylish tee shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies will be available for purchase at the CroatiaFest apparel booth next to the main stage of the Seattle Center Armory on Sunday, October 5th.  We are happy to announce our new hat and tote bag accessories this year. The high quality stretch and ventilated cap is designed for fitted comfort and the tote holds up to 25 pounds!  Swing by the apparel booth to check out what is new. Be sure to take home your custom made souvenir!


 

Interpretive Kiosk at Roslyn Historic Cemetery

The Interpretive Kiosk at Roslyn Historic Cemetery complex was dedicated in 2021 to be a gathering place for services and other cemetery events.  It serves as a gateway to the rich histories of individuals resting in the sacred grounds, allowing visitors and families to explore and contribute to a living tapestry of memories. 

The kiosk is a digital storyteller and a navigator, guiding users to specific grave sites.  Visitors can enter a name to access detailed profiles, complete with photographs and stories, bridging the gap between past and present.

CroatiaFest 2025 is pleased to welcome The Roslyn Cemetery Legacy Project team to the festival on October 5th.  The project team will be located on the 3rd floor of the Armory.  They will present how to access the computer on site or at home plus how you can contribute your family’s profile and history.  You are encouraged to bring your information and photos of family members. 

The Residence Inn by Marriott

The Residence Inn Seattle Downtown/Lake Union is close to Seattle Center, across the street from Lake Union, and it is offering a reduced room rate from October 4th through October 6th, 2025. Reservations must be made by September 6th, 2025 to get this rate.

Direct Booking Link: Book your group rate for CroatiaFest

Residence Inn Seattle Downtown Lake Union, a top Seattle hotel with spacious all-suite accommodations and stunning Lake Union views.  With the Seattle Streetcar at our doorstep, enjoy quick access to Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Climate Pledge Arena, and South Lake Union. Our extended-stay hotel features modern suites with full kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and lake or city views - perfect for short or extended stays. Start your morning with a complimentary hot breakfast, and relax in the evening at True North Taproom with local craft beers and casual Northwest fare. Stay active with a 24-hour fitness center, indoor pool, spa, and game room. Whether you're here for work or play, Residence Inn Seattle Downtown/Lake Union is your home in the heart of Seattle.

The Maxwell House

SPEND THE WEEKEND TO CELEBRATE CROATIAFEST!
Come to the Dance Party on Saturday, October 4th and stay overnight for the festival the next day.  StayPineapple Hotels are eager to be your overnight host during the CroatiaFest weekend and this entire year!  

The Maxwell Hotel/StayPineapple at 300 Roy St., is one block north of the Seattle Center.  StayPineapple is offering a 20% discount off their best available rate from now until March 17, 2026! Their discount booking link is active now:

CroatiaFest 2025 Discount Booking Link  (Note: Final Discounted room rate is shown at the Checkout screen)

When using their reservation number 866-866-7977, please mention CroatiaFest.  This offer also extends to their six hotels nationwide and three Seattle area hotels: Staypineapple Hotel 5 in downtown Seattle; Staypineapple University Inn and the Watertown Hotel/Staypineapple, both near the University of Washington.  

SATURDAY NIGHT VIGIL MASS AND KICK OFF DANCE AND SING-ALONG

SATURDAY CROATIAN VIGIL MASS RETURNS

 CroatiaFest is pleased to announce the return of the Saturday Croatian Vigil Mass. The Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, October 4th at 5:30 pm at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, located at 7000 35th Ave SW in West Seattle. Traditional Croatian liturgical music and hymns will be performed by Orkestar Kišobran.

SATURDAY NIGHT DANCE – Orkstar Zrinski 

Immediately after Mass, Orkestar Zrinski of Los Angles will play from 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm at Our Lady of Guadalupe Walmesley Center, located just across the street from the church. There is plenty of off-street parking for your convenience. An à la carte menu featuring traditional Croatian cuisine prepared by the parents of the Seattle Jr. Tamburitzans will be available for purchase, as well as a no host bar featuring wine, beer, and soft drinks. Admission is $20 per person, $10 for children 16 and under, and free for kids 5 and under.

SPLASH INTO FUN AT CHRIS’ KIDS CORNER

This year at CroatiaFest, we’re bringing the beach to you! Be sure to stop by Chris’ Kids Corner, a special space for the young—and the young at heart.

Our theme this year is “Beach Time on the Adriatic!” Dive into a sea of fun with games, hands-on activities, and discoveries inspired by the amazing ocean creatures that call the Adriatic home, like sea urchins, octopuses, dolphins, and seahorses.

It’s a place to play, explore, and get inspired by the wonders of the sea. You’ll find us on the upper floor at the top of the stairs.

We can’t wait to see you there!

Volunteers Will Be On-Site To Answer Questions

CROATIA TODAY:  Travel agents from Adriatic Travel answer your questions about travel to Croatia

KAKO SE KAŽE:  Learn about Croatian language and compare regional dialects

ACAP:  Association of Croatian American Professionals

ROSLYN CEMETERY LEGACY PROJECT: The project team will present how to access kiosk computer plus how you can contribute your family’s profile and history.

CROATIAFEST INFORMATION BOOTH:  Pick up your souvenir programs and schedules of activities

STEP AND REPEAT: Bring your camera to take a selfie or photo with family and friends in front of the CroatiaFest logo banner

YOU WON'T GO HUNGRY!

A variety of delicious Croatian foods will be available for purchase both inside and outside the Seattle Center Armory.

Outside the Armory

Balkan Store will again have whole lamb roasted on the spit and grilled ćevapčići (Croatian-style links). Both meats will include bread and condiments.

Anacortes Sister Cities will be grilling kobasice.

Inside the Armory

On the main floor of the Armory, the Balkan Task Force will offer palačinke (Croatian crepes) and baklava. You can also purchase a cup of kava (Turkish coffee) to go along with these sweets.

Baked in Bosnia will serve traditional Croatian sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls). They will also be serving slices of their delicious apple and bee sting cakes and other tasty items such as pita/burek and princes krofne (cream puffs).

Croatian Themed Gift Items

If you're looking for gift items, imported Mediterranean foods, crafts, or Croatian-themed apparel, come to the main floor of the Armory. Our vendors have unique and hard-to-find items as well as Croatian candies, cookies, ajvar, and Dalmatian olive oil. We are excited to welcome back five of our favorite Croatian vendors and will welcome a few new ones this year as well.

Balkan Store: Imported Croatian and Mediterranean food and beverage products

Drusk Trading Company: Olive oil from Croatia

Andy's Fine Woods: Bowls, platters, and gifts made from exotic woods

Croatia Gifts: Handcrafted ceramics and gift items

CroatiaFest Souvenir Booth: One-of-a-kind CroatiaFest souvenir apparel

J.P. Designs: Croatian themed items - cutting boards, boxes, and trivets

SABS: Cookies, cookbooks, and gifts

Croatian Heritage Corner: Imported kitchen items from Croatia

Color In Croatia:  Photography by Mariana Tomas-Savage

Pomalo Apparel:  T-shirts, stickers, and more

Matt's Canned Salmon: Wild caught Bristal Bay Sockeye salmon

The merchants are located on the main and 3rd floors of the Armory. Come visit -- you will be pleased with the variety of offerings. You are certain to find something with that special Croatian touch to take home and enjoy or give as a unique gift.

CroatiaFest October 5, 2025

Consulate General of Croatia from Los Angeles, California will be available for Consular Days Sunday October 5th  from 12:00 – 4:00 pm on the 3rd floor of the Seattle Center Armory for passport renewal, citizenship applications and notary services. Please make sure to bring copies of all required documents. We will not be able to accept incomplete applications.

Citizenship applications require two packets with all required documents: one original set and one complete copy for each individual applying. Copies cannot be made on site.

By appointment only! 

The office will start taking appointments September 1st.   Please e-mail the Consulate at  losangeles@mvep.hr.  Appointments are available on a first come first served basis. Please note we only accept personal checks or money orders payable to the Croatian Consulate.