Art, Nature, and Community United for the Danube
On June 29, 2025, International Danube Day was celebrated in a truly inspiring way in Erdut, Croatia. The event, organized by the Public Institution for Nature Protection of Osijek-Baranja County, invited nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and wine connoisseurs to experience the Danube through a unique blend of creativity, education, and local culture.
Held at the picturesque Erdut Lookout, overlooking one of the most breathtaking sections of the Danube River, the event featured a painting workshop in cooperation with Erdut Winery, with the river itself as the central artistic motif. The workshop was led by academic painter Ena Gilih Mesarić and art historian Radmila Biondić, offering participants both artistic inspiration and expert guidance.
In addition to sampling premium local wines and culinary delicacies, participants engaged in educational activities focused on the Danube and the effects of climate change on riverine ecosystems. The event also included a guided nature walk through the Erdut Tower, the "Stairs of Health," and the Porić Trail—all part of the Erdut Significant Landscape, managed by the host institution.
This initiative was implemented within the ClimEmpower project and was supported by the Danube WILDisland Regional Ramsar Initiative through a Subgrant for practical pilot measures, Category RRI-2: "Awareness-raising events for the Danube WILDisland RRI".
As part of the wider DANUBEPARKS network, this event exemplifies our mission to connect people with the Danube through culture, education, and conservation. By bringing together nature, art, and community, we aim to inspire lasting commitment to the protection of this unique and valuable river landscape.