The sandy island of Susak will mark its 39th traditional Emigrant Day on July 28, 2024, with an all-day sports and cultural-entertainment program!

This special event, continuously held since 1985, is dedicated to all the island's emigrants. Every year, on the last day of July, Susak welcomes numerous visitors and its long-departed islanders, providing them with an opportunity to reunite and remember their roots.

The celebration begins with an early morning Holy Mass in the Church of St. Nicholas, located in Gornje Selo. After the mass, visitors will have the opportunity to attend a presentation of new Susak coins, organized by the Emigrant Club. The Croatian Mint continues its “Croatian Heritage” series with a new edition of gold and silver numismatic coins dedicated to the island of Susak. The face of the coin depicts a cartographic view of the island, including Cape Darto with its chapel, while the reverse is adorned with a motif of the festive Susak folk costume. These coins are not just collectible items but also symbols of Croatia's rich cultural heritage.

Sports and Entertainment Program
The sports and entertainment program continues in Donje Selo from 4 PM. Guests and locals will be able to participate in various games such as egg races, tug of war, and wheelbarrow races. The games will be followed by the awarding of prizes to the most successful participants.

Cultural Content
Visitors will also be able to enjoy the traditional Susak dance “Unaj do,” and the evening will conclude with a performance by the band Tu i Tamo, enriching the atmosphere with their musical repertoire.

After World War II, Susak had the highest number of inhabitants, but in the 1960s, a large emigration to America began, primarily to the state of New Jersey, where today more than 2,500 Susakians live. Today, about a hundred people live on the island permanently. Susak's isolation has preserved its archaic speech, specific customs, and picturesque costume, recognized as valuable intangible cultural heritage. This year, as every year, Susak will proudly present its cultural and historical treasures to all visitors.

The organization of this event is undertaken by the City of Mali Lošinj, the Croatian Emigrant Foundation - Rijeka branch, the Susak Local Committee, the local Association Salbun, and the Tourist Board of the City of Mali Lošinj. Their joint effort enables the holding of this manifestation, which gathers emigrants and visitors, preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the island of Susak.

The island of Susak offers visitors an authentic experience of its cultural heritage. Many emigrants and their descendants return each year to attend this event, maintaining a living connection with their homeland and its traditions. This event is not only an opportunity for gathering and celebration but also for promoting cultural awareness and preserving the rich history of the island of Susak. With the participation of the local community and the support of emigrants, Emigrant Day on Susak has become a symbol of unity and cultural diversity in Croatia.

With a rich program and various activities, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the unique spirit of the island of Susak, manifested through preserved customs, tradition, and the hospitality of the local population. This event attracts more and more visitors each year, contributing to the preservation and promotion of the island's cultural heritage. Susak, with its unique characteristics and rich history, provides an unforgettable experience for all who visit it during Emigrant Day.