The 'Before Autumn' event was held for the first time on the estate 'Kod Gumača' in Bukovec, organised by the Međimurje 'Međimurska žganica' Association. The event was dedicated to the autumn season, vine harvests, the gathering of abundant harvests, and the roasting of traditional Međimurje žganica.
The early morning gathering began at 6:30 am, with the estate's grounds decorated in warm autumn hues, featuring details of corn husks, pumpkins, and ripe produce. The local writer and poet, Ignac Šardi, recited a poem, 'Greeting to the Sun', at the very start of the gathering.
The central part of the event was the Autumn Concert. The audience was captivated by the performance of Viktorija Brezari, Marija Magdalina Kočar, and Josipa Kočar, accompanied by the musical accompaniment of Prof. Mladen Magdalenić. The president of the 'Međimurska žganica' Association, Branko Perčić, addressed the attendees, offering a warm welcome and announcing a rich cultural and culinary programme.
The initiative received the support of the mayor of the Municipality of Selnica, Ervin Vičević. 'I hope this event will become a tradition and that more and more people will attend each year. They put in a lot of effort and have beautifully decorated the place. I thank everyone for coming and our musical talents for joining us,' said Vičević.
Visitors had the opportunity to taste top-quality rakija (fruit brandy) selected for the annual assessment as part of the FICKA – Međimurje Rakija Festival. The pleasant gathering of residents and guests continued until 11:00. The sponsors of the event were the Municipality of Selnica and the 'Mura and Goric' Tourist Board.
