As the year 2025 draws to a close, cities across Montenegro are embracing the festive spirit with a series of vibrant holiday celebrations. These events, which include concerts and markets, are designed to welcome the New Year with joy and community spirit. Eight municipalities are hosting various programs, aiming to make the transition to 2026 a memorable occasion.
Podgorica, the capital, is set to host a traditional New Year market from December 19 to January 8 at the Independence Square. The festive opening will take place tonight at 19:00, featuring decorative lighting and performances by the City Choir “Stanko Dragojević,” along with artists such as the group Lombelico and Nataša Bekvalac. A highlight includes a concert by the iconic band Osvajači scheduled for December 21. Other performances will follow, including Jelena Tomašević on December 23, Tijana Bogićević on December 25, and Alen Islamović on December 27. Podgorica will ring in 2026 with a performance by Sara Jo and Marko Louis, followed by a series of concerts throughout early January.
In Cetinje, the holiday celebrations will also kick off tonight with the event “New Year’s Tale in the Capital,” held at the Palace Square. The evening will feature the ensemble Toc and culminate in a concert by the legendary band Prljavo Kazalište. Following this, the festivities will include performances by popular artists such as Nenad Knežević Knez and Edis Agić on December 23, and Božidar Marović on December 25.
Moving to Kotor, the festive atmosphere has been alive since November 29, with the symbolic lighting of Christmas lights. Numerous performances have already taken place, and the festivities will continue with DJ Cole and the All Stars Band on December 20. The celebrations will feature various artists leading up to the New Year, including Parni Valjak on January 1, 2026.
In Tivat, preparations for the New Year’s Eve celebrations began on December 12 with a concert by Adi Šoš. The excitement will ramp up with performances by Lepa Brena on December 31, followed by concerts featuring Jelena Rozga and Toni Cetinski in early January.
Herceg Novi plans a three-day musical spectacle for New Year’s Eve, featuring Haris Džinović and Neda Ukraden on December 31. The celebrations will continue into January with performances by Željko Samardžić and Đenan Lončarević.
In Budva, the holiday festivities are designed to create unforgettable experiences for visitors. Top artists such as Mirza Selimović and Boban Rajović will perform on December 29, with an exciting lineup including Teodora Šćepanović and Emina Jahović on December 31.
Bar is embracing the nostalgic theme of the 1990s for its New Year’s Eve celebration, featuring popular artists from that era. The festivities will kick off on December 29 with Aleksandra Prijović and will include a concert by Zdravko Čolić on January 1, 2026.
Finally, Ulcinj is preparing for its “Sweet December” event, starting on December 22. Music programs will feature performances by Mirza Selimović on December 23 and continue with various artists leading up to a closing performance by the Tropico band on January 7.
Montenegro’s holiday celebrations reflect a vibrant culture and a sense of community as residents and visitors alike come together to welcome the New Year. Each municipality offers a unique experience, ensuring that the festive season is filled with joy and excitement.
