Croatian Cultural Association in Germany’s Ruhr Region Marks 35th Anniversary

The Croatian Cultural Association (Matica hrvatska) in the Ruhr region of Germany is celebrating 35 years of continuous work to preserve the Croatian language, culture and identity among the diaspora.

The anniversary celebration will take place on **November 7, 2026, at 6 p.m.** at the premises of the Croatian Catholic Mission in Essen.

Preserving Croatian language and heritage abroad

Based in Essen, the association is an active branch of Matica hrvatska, headquartered in Zagreb. For 35 years, it has served as an important cultural centre for Croatians living in Germany’s Ruhr region, in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.

Through cultural events and community activities, the association has helped connect Croatians abroad while promoting their language, heritage and national identity.

Anniversary celebration program

The event will open with welcoming remarks from Mijo Nujić, president of the Croatian Cultural Association in the Ruhr region. Vladimir Lončarević, secretary-general of Matica hrvatska in Zagreb, will also address the gathering, followed by a commemorative speech by Dr Ivan Bulić, Consul General of the Republic of Croatia in Düsseldorf.

The musical program will feature the Sojčić family, known for its active involvement in cultural, social and church life and its close cooperation with the Croatian Catholic Mission in Essen and Matica hrvatska in preserving Croatian musical heritage.

Performers will include Anna Elysia, Sanja Milena, Dalija Nadine, Mia Noelia, Anette and Zdenko Sojčić.

The program will also feature the presentation of a collection of award-winning children's works submitted to the *#Ljubav* (Love) competition, as well as an anthology of contemporary Croatian poetry from the German-speaking world.

Young members of the Mala Kapela Croatian Cultural and Artistic Society will add a traditional touch with a folklore performance.

Art workshop for children and evening entertainment

A children's painting workshop entitled *“A Beautiful Day”* will be held as part of the celebrations. It will be led by Ankica Karačić, a Croatian artist who lives and works in Germany.

The anniversary program will conclude with musical entertainment featuring Branko Kovačević.

The celebration will bring together members of the Croatian community, cultural representatives and guests to honour more than three decades of dedication to preserving Croatian language, culture and identity in Germany.