Zlatko Salaj's childhood was far removed from the splendour and sparkling decorations that now adorn his estate. He grew up in modest conditions with his father and a small mill on the very land that, decades later, would become one of Croatia’s most iconic Christmas destinations. The absence of holiday magic during his early years sparked in him a desire to one day create a fairy tale of his own—not just for himself, but for everyone who dreams of a Christmas filled with light, warmth, and joy.

Motivated by that vision, Zlatko set out into the world. He went abroad to work and, through hard work and perseverance, earned a fortune. But wealth alone wasn’t his goal—his greatest wish was to return to his childhood estate and bring to life what was once just a boy’s dream. Upon returning, together with his wife Nada—affectionately known as Jura—he decided in 2001 to do something extraordinary: decorate the estate with 70,000 lights and finally give himself the Christmas he had always imagined.

What they intended as a private celebration quickly became something much greater. The first visitors, amazed by the sight, began to arrive, marveling at the glow of thousands of lights that had transformed the estate into a fairy-tale landscape. From that moment on, the Magic of Lights began to grow—each year drawing more and more people eager to witness the unique spectacle. Today, more than two decades later, the event has become an essential part of the holiday season in Croatia.

But behind the splendour of the decorations and the thousands of visitors lies a story of family and dedication. After Zlatko lost his wife Nada, the family tradition continued through their son Alen, his wife Cora, and their grandson Luka. Together with the family and a team of collaborators, Zlatko designs new decorations each year, adding something fresh and creative to keep the experience vibrant and the visitors continually enchanted.

The Magic of Lights is not just an event—it is the story of a dream come true, of a family sharing joy with thousands of others, and of a boy who grew up with a vision of creating a Christmas miracle. Today, as Zlatko Salaj’s estate shines with millions of lights, it is clear that this vision has truly come to life—and will continue to bring light to the hearts of all who visit for many years to come.