Milanović and Wife Attend Opening of Film Festival in Vrboska

President of the Republic of Croatia Zoran Milanović attended the opening of the third Vrboska Film Festival last night, August 1, 2026, accompanied by his wife Sanja Musić Milanović. As reported by Večernji list, both opted for a more relaxed summer style. The President wore short brown trousers, while his wife donned an elegant pink outfit.

Short Film Festival with a Rich Program

The international festival of short fiction and animated films runs from August 1 to 4, meaning visitors can enjoy four days of programming. In addition to film screenings, the festival offers workshops, activities for young people, and a special program for children. This year's edition emphasizes the promotion of short films and new authors, as well as bringing cultural content to communities outside major urban centers. At the heart of the festival is a competitive program featuring recent Croatian and international short films, with the best receiving the festival's Plava palma award.

Five Films Screened Outdoors Near St. Mary's Church

Following a welcome address by festival director Darija Stilin, attendees watched five short films at the Tvrđava Summer Pop-up Cinema. This venue, located in front of St. Mary's Church, transforms into an open-air cinema during the festival. The lineup included "President Nixon's Gift" directed by Igor Šeregi, "Lonely Crab" directed by Beaux Salix, "Death-Introduction" directed by Martin Horvat, "My Grandma the Paratrooper" directed by Polina Piddubna, and "SOS" directed by Anita Morina.

Dance of the Sails in the Bay

After the screenings, the Dance of the Sails took place, an artistic performance and traditional event organized by the Lantina Association. Around ten wooden sailboats with lateen sails "danced" across the bay accompanied by music and spotlight beams, mimicking a struggle against the wind, as reported by Večernji list.