Nin's šokolijada - an authentic tourist story

In Nin the production of „šokol“ is part of the cultural heritage, a recipewrapped in secrets and transmitted by a family whisper from the generation to generation.

Šokol Festival is the most significant manifestation of ancient Nin and one of the most important gastronomic events in the area of the Zadar region, which has been in the tradition of preserving the tradition and since 2003. it has evolved into a recognizable gastronomic, eco and ethno show, attended by many producers from all over Croatia and abroad who are representing their work and skills, while also exchanging experiences.

Nin Šokol Festival was initiated primarily because of the increasing urbanization of „šokol“ as an indigenous product of this region slowly went to oblivion. This most significant cultural Nin's manifestation is included in the 100 most significant manifestations of Croatia. The most long-lived manifestation in Nin is the only gastronomic event in the Zadar County, which has received three awards.

It is for years already acquainted visitors with a story about the „šokol“, whose preparation is very important quality pork meat, salt and spices. Every single family has its own traditional recipe that makes every single „šokol“ different than the others.

The recipe foundation is a pork neck that is first placed in sea salt for a number of days, then stayed in mulled black wine and spice with various spices, and is then left to the effect of smoke and strong sea wind called „bura“.

The art of making this kind of meat is an intangible cultural heritage. There are very few self-denying, unique, extremely high-quality and rare delicacies left and it always takes a lot of effort to further preserve and continue this tradition.

The Tourist Board of the City of Nin and the City of Nin invite all lovers of tradition, indigenous gastronomy and Dalmatian heritage to the 24th Nin Šokol Festival, which will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Višeslav Square in Nin, starting at 7:00 p.m. This year's Šokol Festival is held under the slogan "Nin's šokol - guardian of tradition", which aims to highlight the value of one of the most recognizable gastronomic symbols of the royal city of Nin.

The event brings a new concept in which the emphasis is placed on the Nin šokolatiers – the guardians of tradition, their families and the knowledge and skill of making Nin's šokol, which is passed down from generation to generation. They are are much more than a top-notch gastronomic delicacy. They are part of the identity of Nin, a symbol of togetherness, family heritage and a rich cultural heritage that has been carefully preserved for decades.

In gratitude for their exceptional contribution to the preservation of this valuable tradition, all šokolatiers will be presented with awards as an expression of respect for their long-standing efforts, dedication and selfless contribution to the preservation of customs that have become the trademark of the city of Nin. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet them and  taste authentic Ninski šokol – the guardian of tradition, talk to its producers and enjoy the rich offer of local products and pleasant socializing in the unique ambiance of the historic core of the royal city.

Visit Nin and  give recognition to the people who preserve valuable heritage with their work and contribute to the preservation of the tradition that is the pride of Nin and Zadar County.