Wine and Bleak Festival

The Wine and Bleak Festival is a traditional winter event held in Virpazar, a place on the shore of Lake Skadar in the heart of the Crmnica wine region. The Wine and Bleak Festival is one of the most significant events in Crmnica and the Bar area. The festival brings together local winemakers and fishermen who present their products to visitors, along with a rich cultural program and an emphasis on preserving the nature of Lake Skadar.

The festival is traditionally held at the end of February or beginning of March. The exact date of the 2027 edition has not yet been officially announced by the organizer, so the proposed date should be considered as an approximate estimate until confirmed by the Bar Tourist Organization.

Where it is held and how to get there

The event takes place in Virpazar, a settlement on the shore of Lake Skadar. Virpazar can be reached from the direction of Bar through the Sozina tunnel, by own vehicle, tourist taxi or shuttle transport. Virpazar is also known as a starting point for lake cruises. The starting destination for lake cruising and visiting cultural and historical monuments is the pier in Virpazar.

Why visit

This is an opportunity to get to know Crmnica Vranac and other local wines in the authentic ambiance of a small lake town, as well as the fishing tradition of Lake Skadar. Hosts present their way of life and tradition to guests in local taverns, welcoming them with dried carp, smoked bleak and a glass of homemade wine. The festival is known for free wine and fish specialty tastings, along with a cultural and artistic program and a competitive part in which the best wines of the region are chosen.