Festival of Queer and Feminist Culture Smoqua was first held in the City that Flows in 2017, and over the years it has grown into an important meeting space for art, activism, and queer togetherness.
For ten years, Smoqua has persistently connected the local and international scene, bringing diverse artistic practices and life stories to Rijeka. To date, more than 300 artists and activists from over 30 countries around the world have participated in the festival, creating a network of collaborations and long-lasting friendships.
To reflect on the first decade of Smoqua, we have prepared the Retrospective "10 Years of Smoqua in Rijeka", reminding us of how the festival was created and how it changed together with the community.
And to make this anniversary just as Smoqua is - creative and colourful - with lots of love we are queering Benčić Art District with a public action. <3
Here is how we are opening this year's Smoqua ↓↓
WHERE: Art-kvart Benčić, Viktora cara Emina 1
Thursday, October 1, 2026
15.00 – 17.00 Smoqua town & Sport games
Join the cheerful stands featuring organisations, collectives, and organizations dealing with human rights, culture, and/or youth (Delta, SOS Rijeka, K-zona, Legebitra, PaRiter, Drugo more, Proces, SKC Gallery, Urbani separe, and many others). Grab some cool stickers, promo materials, and publications, or find out how to volunteer and get involved in the community.
There will also be a special corner for queer sports hangouts with the Decathlon team, bringing various props for a real warm-up! 😊
17:00 – 17:30 | Public Action: Benčić in rainbow colours (¹)
We are queering-up Benčić Art District with rainbow handcrafts created during workshops with our youth and gatherings of fellow citizens, all united around the idea that public space can be a place of belonging and equal opportunities for everyone. Together, we will place the handcrafts in the public space as a visible sign of openness, diversity, and togetherness.
17:30 – 18:00 | Festival Opening with the Retrospective "10 Years of Smoqua in Rijeka"
Ten years of togetherness, queer and feminist culture, activism, and art are gathered into a dynamic retrospective following Smoqua over the past decade. Instead of a classic chronology, through festival posters, photographs, materials, memories, and anecdotes, we will recall the moments that marked the festival. The audience will be able to join in on the spot and share a personal story or memory by writing short statements.
The Retrospective is supported by the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and Rijeka City Library.
Check out the full festival programme HERE.
See you at Benčić Art District! 😊
(¹) Funded by the European Union through Erasmus+ programme
