A Rich Offering of Exhibitors and Educational and Entertaining Content for Visitors
From October 4 to 6, the 27th International Fair Nature, Hunting, Fishing, and Tourism will take place at the Varaždin Arena by the Drava River. Organized by DMK Vall 042 d.o.o., with the support of the City of Varaždin and Varaždin County, this event is the oldest in Croatia dedicated to hunting, fishing, outdoor activities, and tourism. This year, exhibitors from Croatia, Bulgaria, Hungary, Slovakia, and Slovenia will participate.
The fair has a long tradition and is known as an event where visitors can find equipment and products for hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities. Numerous family farms and craftsmen will also showcase their offerings. This year’s partner county is Koprivnica-Križevci County, which will present its family farms and tourist offerings.
Fair Director Maja Šimenc highlighted the fair’s rich offerings and exhibitors: “We expect more than 80 exhibitors from Croatia and abroad. We are especially pleased to see an increase in exhibitors over the past two years, including new participants and the return of some previous ones. A significant portion of the exhibition space will feature hunting equipment, ensuring enthusiasts can thoroughly prepare for the hunting season.” Šimenc also mentioned the freshwater fish photography exhibit by Josip Horvat, showcasing 70 photographs from his ten years of work.
A major attraction will be the hunting stew cooking competition, taking place on Saturday in the outdoor area, with 22 teams from Croatia and Slovenia competing. “We invite everyone to come and experience this side of the fair and see how hunters have fun,” added Šimenc.
Additionally, there will be a bonsai tree exhibit and a workshop on this topic on Sunday at 12:00 PM.
President of the Varaždin County Hunting Association, Goran Kaniški, announced the participation of the Croatian Hunting Association alongside the Hunting Associations of Varaždin County, Koprivnica-Križevci County, and the City of Zagreb. He also highlighted the involvement of Bulgaria’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food, which will also be represented at the fair. On Saturday and Sunday, the traditional Fair Cup in clay target shooting will be held, organized by LD “Vepar” Ljubešćica, with all competition slots already filled.
Visitors will again be greeted by a diorama from the Croatian Hunting Association Museum, themed around wetland habitats. Kaniški also invited everyone to attend the hunting dog show on Sunday at 11:00 AM.
Marijan Kolednjak, Secretary of the Varaždin County Sports Fishing Association, announced a presentation by the Croatian Sports Fishing Association and the Varaždin County Sports Fishing Association. Their booth will feature taxidermied specimens, fish photography, and highlights of notable catches. This year, they will be joined by the Zagreb County Sports Fishing Association, showcasing new developments since last year.
The fair’s supporting program includes the following exhibitions:
- Wildlife of Croatian Regions – Croatian Hunting Association Museum
- Mushroom Exhibition – Mushroom Society Smrčak
- Bonsai Tree Exhibit – Bonsai Association "Northwest"
- Children’s Corner – Croatian Hunting Association
- Birds of Prey Exhibit – Croatian Falconry Club
Fair Hours for visitors are Friday and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday until 5:00 PM. Ticket Prices are €5.00 for adults, €3.00 for students and retirees, and free for children under 7.
