MarsOvca – A Celebration of Flavours, Tradition and Island Togetherness

MarsOvca is a unique gastronomic event celebrating the island identity of Pag through flavours, aromas and stories rooted in centuries-old tradition. Set in an authentic karst landscape, where the Pag sheep has shaped island life for generations, MarsOvca brings together gastronomy, local ingredients and community into an experience that goes beyond a classic food event.

At the heart of the manifestation is the Pag sheep – a symbol of resilience, coexistence with nature and the island’s distinctive character. Through contemporary and traditional interpretations of dishes, visitors are introduced to old, almost forgotten recipes and authentic flavours that once gathered families and neighbours around the hearth. MarsOvca revives this sense of closeness, sharing and storytelling.

The event brings together local restaurateurs, cheesemakers and producers who present the richness of island gastronomy through their dishes and products, while the natural setting further highlights the connection between food, landscape and way of life. Over the years, MarsOvca has grown into a recognisable island festival of flavours and aromas, celebrating authenticity and local pride.

A special feature of MarsOvca is its continuation beyond the event day itself – selected restaurants and hospitality venues in Novalja offer MarsOvca menus during the spring months, allowing visitors to extend the experience even further.

In the end, MarsOvca is more than food. It is a return to simple values – a moment when people come together, pause, look at one another and feel the island “breathe” through its flavours. In the scent of fire and stone, in the warmth of the shared table and in stories passed down through generations, MarsOvca reminds us how powerful closeness and tradition can be when shared.

In the glass — local wine. In the air — the scent of fire. On the plate — heritage.

Visit Novalja