The manifestation is traditionally opened by a procession of all participants, starting from the restaurant “Pod Ladonjon” until reaching the old Castle, where the players present their talent. The introductory part of the programme is dedicated to the youngest members with performances from our children from kindergarten and primary school, along with dancers and players from Cere Folklore Society. The participants receive small gifts and jubilees rightly accept special awards. This meeting of accordion players is not of a competitive type and the only prizes are the numerous applauses and ovations coming from the public, which is always present in a large number here in Žminj. On this day one can hear the sounds of polka, waltz and “balun”, our traditional folklore dance. Following the tradition, the manifestation is always opened by a performance from a local player. Our accordion players are quite well-known and perform at weddings or other festivities and the public in most cases recognizes and welcomes them with ovations. The official end of the program is celebrated with a group performance of around fifty accordions, but the festivity continues until the early morning hours, accompanied by performances of numerous local songs.
Interesting fact: Žminj’s manifestation “Accordions Behind the Castle” is the recipient of the national annual Simply the Best Award in the category “Preserving Local Traditions – Adriatic Croatia”. This award represents the creativity, innovation, development and improvement of the tourist offer and is given by UHPA – Association of Croatian Travel Agencies in collaboration with travel magazine Way to Croatia.