Zagreb in the First Half of the Year Sees Tourist Boom, But It’s All About One Concert!
Zagreb experienced a massive tourist boom in the first six months of this year. Over 1.4 million tourists visited the Croatian capital, spending more than 1.2 million overnight stays, which is 2% more than the same period last year. The Zagreb Tourist Board (TZGZ) highlights that July started strong, with Zagreb leading in tourist arrivals among all Croatian destinations and ranking third in overnight stays.
But wait, it’s not just about the numbers! A huge part of this tourist surge is tied to one event that has stirred a real storm – the concert of Marko Perković Thompson, scheduled for July 4th and 6th at Zagreb’s Hippodrome.
Thompson – Musician or Political Phenomenon?
Marko Perković Thompson is not just a singer. He is an icon of extreme right-wing views and a controversial ideology, known for glorifying Ustaša symbols and nationalist messages. His concert in Zagreb is announced as the biggest musical event in recent Croatian history, with around half a million tickets sold! That’s enough people to make it the largest concert ever held in Croatia.
While his fans celebrate, many in Croatia and beyond view this event with concern and criticism. Politicians avoid condemning the concert because Thompson has the support of a large part of the electorate, and his performances are often accompanied by nationalist slogans and symbols reminiscent of the darkest periods of history.
European Concerns and Logistical Chaos
The concert has not only sparked political tensions but also logistical problems. Berlin officially warned about possible traffic jams and collapse in Zagreb during the concert. German media write about controversies and dangers associated with this event, reminding that Thompson’s concerts have been banned in some European countries due to the glorification of fascist symbols.
In Zagreb, as many as 14,000 people are engaged for security, including police, emergency services, and stewards. An open-air hospital with about 40 beds has been set up, and organizers have provided 2.5 million bottles of water and 2 kilometers of bar counters. Entry will be paid exclusively by card, and visitors are advised to arrive early to avoid crowds.
Tourism or Political Manifestation?
Although Zagreb has recorded tourist growth this year, it is clear that a large part of this growth is connected to events like this concert. The Tourist Board emphasizes that large events, whether sports, music, or business, significantly influence tourist arrivals and spending. But is this concert truly a tourism success or a political spectacle deepening societal divisions?
Reactions and Divisions in Public Opinion
While half a million people prepare to attend the concert, many citizens of Zagreb and Croatia express concern about possible incidents and political tensions. Many young people support Thompson, dressed in national symbols, while others refuse to attend due to his controversial background.
The political scene is divided: the ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) supports Thompson, while left-wing politicians mostly remain silent or criticize. Serbian diplomacy advises Serbian citizens not to travel to Zagreb during the concert for security reasons.
Conclusion: Is This Really a Good Sign for Zagreb?
Zagreb is a city with a rich tourist offer and the potential to be attractive year-round. However, when the biggest tourist boom is tied to an event that causes divisions, controversies, and fears, the question arises – is this really a success or a sign of deeper problems?
Organizers and authorities must strive to ensure the event passes without incidents and also consider how such events will affect the city’s and country’s image in the future.
And you? Do you think Thompson’s concert in Zagreb is just a musical spectacle or a political time bomb? Drop a comment, maybe you have the best anecdote from this event or a good joke about the traffic jams we’re about to face!
Slug: zagreb-thompson-tourism-boom-political-spectacle
