All Roads Lead to Sinj: The Spectacle Begins
The 311th Alka festivities kicked off with the Bara competition. The town expects 40,000 visitors, and preparations are underway for both the Alka and the Assumption of Mary.
The 311th Alka festivities kicked off with the Bara competition. The town expects 40,000 visitors, and preparations are underway for both the Alka and the Assumption of Mary.
Sinj is once again the heart of Croatia. The 311th Alka festivities officially began on Friday afternoon with the Bara competition. Despite poor weather conditions, the race went ahead, with three hits on the target in the first round.
HRT journalist Mirta Šurjak emphasized that even heavy rain cannot dampen the spirits in the town. "The Alka brings history to life here on the racetrack and throughout the Cetina region. The Alka is a symbol of every struggle: for home, for hearth, for peace, and for freedom," she said.
Monika Vrgoč, director of the Sinj Tourist Board, revealed concrete figures confirming the growing popularity of the area. From January 1 to July 31, there was an eight percent increase in overnight stays compared to the same period last year. "We are truly delighted, as well as by the large number of newly opened accommodation facilities. The town of Sinj still has only one hotel, Hotel Alkar, but we hope that hotel capacity will increase in the future," said Vrgoč.
Although the stands at the Alka racetrack can hold around 5,000 spectators, many people follow the procession through the town's streets. "We expect around 40,000 visitors during the Alka festivities," Vrgoč announced, noting that Sinj is becoming a must-visit destination.
That Sinj is not just a local story is confirmed by international visitors. Eric from the Netherlands shared his enthusiasm: "The weather is lovely, and the locals are welcoming. The hosts we're staying with are the kindest people I've met." His compatriot Cynthia added: "I love small towns. Everything is accessible, and the local way of life is truly captivating."
Restaurateur Antonija Pirić confirmed the influx of guests: "Absolutely, we have a huge number of visitors and quite a few inquiries." Mayor Miro Bulj said that everyone who has visited Sinj left with a good impression, and first-time visitors are amazed by the town's beauty.
The Alka is the heart of this region's identity. Boris Filipović Grčić, head of the Sinj Alka Museum, recounted a recent visit from a Spanish guest who was moved because a similar knightly game exists in his country. "He was quite emotional about it and is very happy to be at this year's Sinjska Alka," he said.
For many, the Alka is a way of life. "I've loved the Alka since I was a child, and growing up with it meant caring for horses," said alkar Frano Talaja. He is joined by numerous Alka horse caretakers, such as Lana Mikulić, who says her horse is "calm and really listens," and Stipe Klapeža, who walks and tends to his horse after arriving at the hippodrome.
Young Marko Samardžić, also a horse caretaker, revealed his dream: "I used to watch the Sinjska Alka and wanted to sit in the saddle as an alkar, and I hope that will come true for me." Alka apprentices are eagerly awaiting their moment. "You wait all year and live for it; of course, now you can't wait for the day to come," emphasized alkar Filip Vučemilo. Alajčauš Ivica Filipović Grčić added that he is happiest when everything goes smoothly, although everyone hopes for victory.
After the Bara, the Čoja is scheduled for Saturday, August 8, 2026, with the highlight expected on Sunday, August 9, 2026, when the competition for the winner of the Sinjska Alka will take place. The broadcast will be on the second channel of Croatian Television.
In addition to the Alka festivities, Sinj is also preparing for the days of the Assumption of Mary. On August 12, 2026, the historical-scenic spectacle "The Siege of Sinj" will take place, performed for the 20th time this year, along with a klapa concert in honor of Our Lady of Sinj and other events.
