Širun Day Budva 2026 – Tradition, Local Flavours and a True Seaside Celebration
As the summer crowds begin to disappear, Budva takes on a different atmosphere. October brings milder temperatures, quieter streets and one of the town's most distinctive traditional events – Širun Day.
Dedicated to the sea, local traditions, music and, of course, širun – horse mackerel – the event has been bringing locals and visitors together for decades. Traditionally held in early October, it has become one of Budva's best-known post-season celebrations. Previous editions have been organised by the Budva Tourism Organisation, the Municipality of Budva and the Širun Sea Sport Fishing Club.
A seaside celebration in front of Budva Old Town
One of the things that makes Dan Širuna special is its setting.
The event traditionally takes place in front of the walls of Budva Old Town, creating a unique combination of Mediterranean scenery, local food and entertainment.
Previous editions have featured children's programmes, live music, local singers and traditional vocal groups, as well as entertaining sporting competitions. Tug-of-war and the famous challenge of reaching a prosciutto placed on a slippery beam in the city harbour have become some of the event's most recognisable attractions.
Food, however, remains at the heart of the celebration.
Members of the Širun fishing club traditionally prepare large quantities of freshly grilled fish, filling the area around the Old Town with the unmistakable aroma of a true Adriatic feast. Previous editions have also included wine and beer, completing the relaxed atmosphere of a traditional seaside festival.
Why visit Budva in October?
Budva is much more than a summer destination.
Autumn is a great time to discover the Old Town, seaside promenades and the Budva Riviera without the busiest summer crowds. Dan Širuna adds another reason to plan an October weekend by the Adriatic and experience a side of Budva that goes beyond beaches and nightlife.
Take a walk through the narrow streets of the Old Town, enjoy a coffee by the sea and spend the afternoon discovering local flavours, music and traditions.
It is precisely this combination of the Adriatic, local cuisine and Budva's community spirit that has allowed Dan Širuna to remain part of the town's identity for more than half a century.
Travel to Budva by bus
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