Bean Festival in Veliko Gradište | Tourist Calendar of Serbia

Bean Fest is a traditional culinary event held annually in Veliko Gradiste with the aim of promoting probably the biggest local brand - the variety of beans.

Gradište Bean Fest is a one-day event usually reserved for mid-August, dedicated to the preparation of the authentic variety of beans called "Gradišanac," characteristic of this region.

The first festival was held in 2006 with the aim of promoting Veliko Gradiste as a tourist destination through culinary offerings. Over time, it has grown into an event that attracts not only food enthusiasts but also those most interested in horticulture since this town on the banks of the Danube is also known as the city of flowers. Sports competitions are also an integral part of this event, so everyone can find something of interest here.

It is important to note that "Gradišanac" is the most famous type of beans in Serbia, and you can experience its uniqueness by visiting Veliko Gradiste. This festival also provides encouragement to farmers who exclusively cook beans from the Veliko Gradiste area and present their products during this event.

Bean Fest begins with the awards ceremony for the most beautiful, picturesque, and flowery garden, the most flowery balcony, and the most beautiful shared courtyard in the municipality, which encourages the local population to dedicate themselves to their own and their neighbors' surroundings.

During the morning, participants carefully set up their stands, followed by awards for the best-decorated kitchen, the stand with the most impactful message, the most original team name, and the most cheerful cooking pot. However, beans are not the only thing you can find here; there are also various craft handicrafts.

From the city park located along the Danube riverbank, the scent of simmering beans fills the air, but one cooking pot attracts the most attention. Namely, members of the Serbian Army from the Požarevac garrison prepare their specialty for free tasting by all visitors. For older visitors who have served in the military, this taste brings back memories of their military days, while those who have not had the honor or obligation can only imagine what it was like. Even without the "military" cooking pot, there are mostly men among the participants, so it can be assumed that the male population prefers this dish more.

After three hours of cooking, competitors receive a signal to extinguish the fire and then submit their prepared dish for evaluation by the jury based on the appearance, taste, thickness, tenderness, and spiciness of the beans. The most successful participants are rewarded. The record number of participants was recorded in 2019 when more than 120 chefs took part.

The festival also includes a 3x3 basketball tournament featuring young talents, with motivation coming from the basketball camp organized by the renowned basketball player Miloš Teodosić every summer at Srebrno jezero (Silver Lake). Awards are presented to the best teams at the opening of the festival.

After a day of socializing and enjoying traditional flavors, concerts by famous entertainers usually follow. Therefore, this event often lasts until late at night.

This year's 17th edition of Bean Fest will take place on August 12th.

The organizers of Bean Fest are Veliko Gradiste Municipality and the local tourist organization. For more information about the upcoming Bean Fest, you can visit their respective websites.