As 2025 draws to a close, festive celebrations are igniting holiday spirits across Montenegro’s cities. A range of New Year’s events is set to take place in eight municipalities, welcoming in 2026 with optimism after a challenging year.
Podgorica’s Festive Program
In the capital city of Podgorica, the traditional New Year’s market will run from December 19 to January 8 at Independence Square. The festivities kick off tonight at 19:00 with the lighting of decorative displays. The ceremony will feature performances by the City Choir “Stanko Dragojević,” followed by concerts from the band Lombelico and singer Nataša Bekvalac.
On December 21, the iconic band Osvajači will perform, and visitors can look forward to concerts by Jelena Tomašević on December 23, Tijana Bogićević on December 25, and Alen Islamović on December 27. The final week of the year will see performances from S.A.R.S. on December 30 and a New Year’s Eve celebration led by Sara Jo and Marko Louis, with a concert by Nenad Knežević Knez on January 1.
Cetinje and Its Musical Lineup
Cetinje is also embracing the holiday spirit with its event “New Year’s Story in the Capital.” Starting tonight at the Palace Square, the event will open with Ensemble Toć and feature a concert by the legendary band Prljavo Kazalište. Further entertainment includes performances by Nenad Knežević Knez on December 21 and musical encounters with various artists throughout the week, culminating in a closing concert by Indira Forza on January 7.
Celebrations Across Other Cities
Kotor has already begun its festive activities, having lit its holiday lights on November 29. The city’s stage has hosted numerous artists, with performances scheduled throughout December. Notable acts include DJ Cole and Bend All Stars on December 20, and the Fankulo band on December 23. Kotor will enter 2026 with performances from the band Parnim valjkom, followed by a concert on January 2 featuring Jakov Jozinović and Marija Šerifović.
In Tivat, celebrations started on December 12 with a concert by Adi Šoš. The festivities will peak on December 31 with a performance by Lepa Brena, featuring additional concerts by Jelena Rozga and Toni Cetinski in the following days.
Herceg Novi is planning a three-day musical extravaganza, starting with a concert featuring Haris Džinović and Neda Ukraden on New Year’s Eve. The following days will include performances by Željko Samardžić and Vesna Zmijanac, and a concert by Đenan Lončarević on January 2.
Budva is set to offer exciting performances from Mirza Selimović and Jovana Pajić on December 29, followed by an impressive roster of artists leading into the New Year, including Teodora Šćepanović and Aco Pejović.
In Bar, the “Party of the Nineties” will feature popular artists from that era on December 31, while Ulcinj will host its “Sweet December” program beginning December 22, featuring a range of artists and culminating with the Tropico band on January 7.
Montenegro’s various cities are set to welcome 2026 with joy and vibrant celebrations, creating an atmosphere of unity and hope as they bid farewell to the past year.
