The final preparations behind the walls of the amphitheater as part of “Advent in Pula – L’Avvento a Pola” are nearing completion, ensuring that the Christmas magic will begin on December 6th.
At the center lies a large ice rink spanning an impressive 600 m², complete with supporting infrastructure managed by Arctic d.o.o. The creators of the project from Inspiro Lab have installed stylized arcades, each 8 meters long, specially designed for this venue as a tribute to Roman architecture. A Roman chariot, harnessed by two horses, is already in place, providing a picturesque spot for visitors to take photographs. Decorative elements inspired by the legend of fairies will evoke a mythical story connected to the site throughout the Advent period. The stone stands have been transformed into a snow-covered forest with 111 pine trees, complemented by special fog effects and numerous lighting features. Behind the stands, there are three light tunnels, one of which will offer an exceptional visual experience with a thematic video projection.
“This year, in addition to Advent events at multiple locations in the city center, we will have an ice rink in a specially decorated, illuminated Arena. I believe the new location of the ice rink, along with the sight of snowy stone stands and over a hundred Christmas trees, will surely delight all visitors, especially skaters. Advent in Pula and the Arena is the most beautiful in the world. After being the summer destination, we are now becoming the ultimate destination for Advent as well,” said Mayor Filip Zoričić.
The installations and scenery already set up have amazed those who visited the Arena in recent days, suggesting that visitors on Friday can expect a true visual spectacle. The grand opening of the ice rink and the lighting ceremony, with a countdown, will take place on December 6th at 6:00 PM, with gates opening to visitors at 5:30 PM. A special program is being prepared by the Medo Skating Club from Zagreb, whose 50 skaters, through fairy-tale costumes, lavish sets, and ballet music, will bring beloved stories to life, including Cinderella, Snow White, The Three Little Pigs, and more. Pula musician Kristina Iveković will add to the musical magic, while the holiday classic “All I Want for Christmas” will mark the moment when visitors with tickets for the 7:00 PM session can step onto the ice and join the Medo Club skaters.
“Advent in the Arena has further enriched Advent in Pula, which now offers unique ice skating in an ancient monument surrounded by light decorations designed specifically for the Arena. In addition to being enjoyed by the residents of Pula and Istria, I believe this unique Advent in the Arena will attract many guests to Pula from all over Croatia and neighboring countries, which was the goal of the Pula Tourist Board when they decided to fund this project,” said Sanja Cinkopan Korotaj, Director of the Pula Tourist Board.
Visitors will be able to enjoy numerous thematic attractions and Christmas delights that will run until January 6, 2025. Advent in the Arena is organized by the Pula Film Festival Public Institution with the support of the City of Pula and the Pula Tourist Board.
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