Annual Lavender Celebration Restarts in Hvar for Its 17th Installment
In the heart of the picturesque island of Hvar, Croatia, lies Velo Grablje, a hamlet that once thrived on the production of high-quality lavender. Once the economic powerhouse of the region, the village faced decline, but its rich history and alluring charm have brought it back to life as a popular tourist destination.
The story of Velo Grablje's lavender industry is steeped in legend. An unrequited love story is said to have inspired a peasant boy, desperate for his love's affections, to take the advice of the village priest and plant lavender. The boy's lavender oil business flourished, exporting to Paris and leading to his prosperity[2].
By the year 2003, Velo Grablje was largely abandoned, with a small, elderly population[6]. However, a group of locals began to revive the village and its traditions, including the lavender festival, which has been held annually ever since[1]. Today, the village has seen a resurgence, with a population of 14, including a young child[7].
The 17th edition of the Hvar Lavender Festival will take place from July 3 to 5, 2025. The central part of the festival moves to Velo Grablje on July 4, with a traditional lavender harvest and a fair of local products[1]. The event includes lavender dishes, historical exhibitions, live music, and the opportunity to participate in the lavender-producing process[8].
The Hvar Lavender Festival is more than just a celebration of the fragrant plant. It is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the village's history, culture, and traditions[9]. Numerous exhibitions about lavender, life on the island, and tradition are set up in Velo Grablje[9]. The Pjaca and Veli Đardin in Hvar will be filled with children's activities from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 3[10].
Velo Grablje has been listed as an eco-ethno village, reflecting its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism[11]. Admission to all programs of the Hvar Lavender Festival is free, making it accessible to all who wish to experience this enchanting event[12].
The village's revival is not limited to its lavender industry. Other aspects of Velo Grablje's history have also been celebrated and preserved. For instance, the football team of Velo Grablje won the Forska Liga in 2012, and there is an excellent documentary following the team throughout a season[3].
Despite its past prosperity, Velo Grablje was not immune to the challenges that faced many rural communities. Emigration and forest fires decimated the Hvar lavender industry and life in Velo Grablje[4]. However, the village's resilience and the enduring appeal of its lavender fields have ensured its continued existence and growth.
Today, Velo Grablje stands as a testament to the power of community spirit and the enduring allure of tradition. Its revival serves as a reminder of the village's rich history and the potential for renewal that lies within even the most seemingly forgotten corners of our world.
In Velo Grablje, the revival extends beyond its lavender industry, with the village showcasing its fashion-and-beauty heritage through local product fairs and traditional lavender dishes during the Hvar Lavender Festival. Additionally, home-and-garden enthusiasts can explore numerous exhibitions about life on the island and traditional practices, adding to the event's immersion in the village's culture and history.
