by Luka, age 8 from Zagreb, Croatia, asks Santa about Christmas plays, Zagreb’s award-winning Advent festival, and Croatia’s Catholic traditions.
Dear Santa, my name is Luka, and I am eight years old. I live in Zagreb, Croatia, where my mama says our Advent festival has been named the best Christmas market in all of Europe more than once.
Dear Luka, a title like that does not happen by accident, your mama’s city has clearly earned every bit of that honor.
Santa, I have three questions.
Do you like Christmas plays? My school puts one on every year and I finally get a speaking part this time.
I love Christmas plays, Luka, and a speaking part is a very big deal, congratulations. Whether it is one line or many, standing up in front of a room and sharing the story takes real courage, and I am proud of you already.
My teacher says Zagreb sits along a river called the Sava. Is that true?
It is true, Luka, the Sava River flows right along the edge of your city on its long journey through the Balkans. I always follow its glimmer at night to help find my way to your rooftop.
My mama says most families in Croatia are Catholic, and Christmas is one of the most important holidays of the year here. Is that true?
It is true, Luka, Catholicism plays a central role in daily life across Croatia, and Christmas is celebrated with deep meaning, church services, and family gatherings. That kind of shared faith and togetherness is really the heart of the whole season.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Luka Kovacevic
Zagreb, Croatia
P.S. Will you come watch my speaking part in the play this year?
I would not miss it for the world, Luka, front row seat guaranteed.
