Two structures in Zagreb, the Arena and the new Emergency Terminal, both completed and opened this year, have recently been proclaimed as best in the world, each in their own category. These recognitions were awarded at the World Architecture Festival in Barcelona, where a total of 630 architecture projects from 81 countries were competing.

Between the 11th and the 18th of December, the Jewish community Bet Israel will be celebrating the 5770th Hanukah at their centre on Mažuranić Square. Anyone interested can participate in the organized workshops and learn about Jewish customs and culture.

On December 10th, beginning at 9 p.m., the undisputed greats of Latino music, Yolanda Duke and the Tito Puente Orchestra, will perform at the popular Tvornica Kulture (Culture Factory). This concert will present the audience with exciting sounds of Latino-jazz, Bossanova, Salsa, Mambo, and other Latin-American rhythms.

This year’s traditional holiday atmosphere will be complemented by a great musical event, “Musical Broadway – Best Of”, in which sections of the legendary, world-famous Broadway musicals will be presented to the Zagreb audience on December 13th, at the Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall.

The legendary British band, Spandau Ballet, which dominated the global music scene in the 1980’s, has begun their first tour after twenty years. The tour calendar includes Zagreb, where the band will hold a concert on February 27th. With this tour they will be promoting their new album, “Once More”, released earlier this year, whilst also reminding audiences of their greatest hits such as “True”, “Gold” etc.

Throughout this December and January of the New Year, the Kvaternik Square, one of the city’s busiest squares, will feature a winter program intended for all generations. Apart from loads of fun and an impressive culinary selection, one can expect an array of various events tied to traditional customs.

On the eve of the Advent and the holiday festivities, the city centre will feature attractive daily programs intended for all generations, which will continue into the New Year, after the celebrations at the main city square.

Fans of the works by Marija Jurić Zagorka can finally view the apartment in which the most renowned Croatian female writer, and first female journalist, once lived and worked. Apart from organized group visits, every Thursday will feature book presentations.