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Croatia's Zagorje Region to Host Major Air Show, Cycling Event, and Gastronomy Festival
๐Ÿ‡ญ๐Ÿ‡ท Croatia /Culture & Society

Croatia's Zagorje Region to Host Major Air Show, Cycling Event, and Gastronomy Festival

From Veฤernji List · () Croatian

Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • A weekend event in Zagorje, Croatia, will feature a large air show, a cycling event, thermal spas, and local gastronomy.
  • The "Susreti za Rudija" (Meetings for Rudi) air show honors pilot Rudolf Pereลกin and will include displays by Rafale jets and the Krila Oluje aerobatic team.
  • Activities include a 10km cycling route through scenic hills, relaxation at Terme Jezerฤica, and sampling local food from restaurants and family farms.

The Zagorje region of Croatia is set to host a vibrant weekend of events on September 5th and 6th, 2026, blending aerial spectacle with outdoor activity and local flavor. Visitors are invited to experience the "Gupฤev kraj" and Marija Bistrica through a scenic cycling route, impressive air displays, thermal spa relaxation, and a rich culinary offering.

The centerpiece of the weekend is the 29th "Susreti za Rudija" (Meetings for Rudi), a major aviation event honoring the late Croatian Air Force pilot Rudolf Pereลกin. The skies above Zagorje's hills will come alive with the roar of Rafale fighter jets and the precision maneuvers of the Krila Oluje (Wings of Storm) aerobatic team. This aerial performance, scheduled from 3 PM to 5 PM, promises to be a highlight for attendees.

Complementing the air show is a 10-kilometer cycling event, the Selnicaโ€“Gusakovec biciklijada, designed for mountain biking enthusiasts. Starting at 3 PM from Lojzekova hiลพa in Gusakovec (Gornja Stubica), the route winds through picturesque hills, offering participants refreshment stops and scenic views. The ride combines asphalt and gravel paths, making it an engaging experience for active visitors.

After a day of cycling and aerial displays, attendees can unwind at Terme Jezerฤica in Donja Stubica, known for its thermal pools and wellness facilities. The weekend's experience is further enhanced by the region's gastronomy, featuring traditional dishes and local products from restaurants and family farms (OPG-ova), offering a taste of Zagorje's authentic culinary heritage. The event aims to provide a multifaceted experience suitable for all ages, combining sport, nature, and spectacular entertainment.

I am Croatian, I cannot and will not shoot at my own people.

โ€” Rudolf PereลกinThe legendary pilot's declaration upon defecting with his MiG-21 in 1991, which became a symbol of patriotism.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.