International Drava Day was celebrated on Saturday, September 20, 2025, along one of the Drava's tributaries in Bilje.
The celebration was held by Osijek-Baranja County in cooperation with national institutions like the Croatian Water Management and the Croatian Red Cross, empowered by local associations that gather children of all ages: Scout Association, Firefighters Association, Volley ball Club, Sport angling Association, Kayak Klub, Traditional Sports Club, Association that promotes STEM occupations and other partners that covered the gastronomy and cultural part of the celebration.
The main highlight was to raise awareness about the importance of nature protection, rescue activities on water, sports on water and life by such a river. This is why we also offered food and drinks to the participants and visitors. The food was typically local, especially fish meals like fish soup, forked carp and similar.
More than 500 people attended this celebration throughout the day, and every person had the opportunity to learn something new about the Drave River and wetlands in general. The information about Danubeparks and WILDisland Regional Ramsar Initiative was also presented at the celebration.
Text and Photo: Osijek-Baranja County