Creski Kaic is a festival that aims to preserve and promote intangible cultural heritage, focusing on the traditional way of life associated with seafaring and fishing. The central actors are local residents of all age groups who actively participate in large numbers in activities aimed at the preservation and promotion of maritime and fishing heritage.
This year, the event will be held from May 27 to June 2, 2024.
The project also aims to revive the memory of the shipbuilders who developed Cres as an important shipyard. Tourists are also involved, joining different activities to experience authentic elements of island life and identity. Through workshops, digitization of stories, tourist tours and other initiatives, the project creates a comprehensive strategy that encourages the preservation of cultural heritage and the creation of a sustainable environment, thereby enriching the lives of local residents and attracting the attention of visitors.
The event “Creski Kaić” brings a diverse and informative program dedicated to the traditional way of life on the island of Cres before the appearance of modern vessels. The central event is a regatta and an exhibition of traditional wooden boats with sails, while an educational maritime-historical promenade along the port of Cres will take place through exhibitions and workshops. Every year, sailing regattas attract a large number of sailors who can’t wait to show off their skills and the uniqueness of their boat.
The event also revives the tradition of Cres sailors socializing with dance and song and organizes competitions in traditional games for visitors and residents of Cres. “Creski Kaić” is not only a manifestation of traditional boats, but also an opportunity for the animated participation of local residents and visitors in various traditional games. Under the gazebo of the famous lodge in Cres, the atmosphere becomes lively during the briškula and trešeta competition, a traditional card game that brings together people of all ages.
On the Cres square itself, visitors can compete in the multi-day program of the always exciting bocce tournament. The atmosphere in the auditorium is further enhanced by various musical groups that perform during the competition. Mora Cantada, a traditional game whose roots go back to the 7th century BC. and ancient Egypt, leaves its mark on the island of Cres, where the organization of the competition becomes crucial in order to preserve it from oblivion. Lovers of intellectual challenges can participate in chess, while perseverance and resourcefulness are tested in tug of war, where teams show their strength by competing against each other. Cres waters.
All these traditional games contribute to the joy and connection of the community, creating an unforgettable experience and reviving the spirit of tradition on the island of Cres.
The gastronomic program includes traditional dishes of Cres cuisine as well as gastronomic specialties and rarities, and the highlight is the competition in the preparation of brudet, finished with a rich musical program. Visitors will have the opportunity to taste excellent fish delicacies prepared in the traditional way, marking the successful end of the “Creski kaić” event.
In conclusion, the “Creski kaić” festival is not only a celebration of tradition, but also a key step towards preserving the cultural heritage of the island of Cres, making it a significant event that enriches the life of the community and attracts the attention of visitors.
