Another traditional part of the event is the Gala Evening which as always marks the end of Christmas in Europe and the departure of the delegations the following day.
The Opera Hall on the 17th floor of the WESTIN hotel had donned its party dress for the occasion, with a symphony in white that was most becoming. An aperitif was handed to everyone at the entrance, and before dinner was served we were treated to a superb concert given by a guitar and mandolin ensemble from Zagreb – though unfortunately the music was somewhat spoilt the loud conversations taking place in the dining hall.
Tables beautifully laid for the gala dinner
The musicians absorbed by their playing
The excellent and unpretentious dinner was graced with the presence of Mr Zlatan Muftic, Director of Tourism, and the atmosphere was most convivial. Marija Razan-Krizanac, addressing her guests, wished everyone a safe journey home and expressed her pleasure that this Christmas in Europe in Zagreb had run so smoothly. For her part, Christiane Keller also spoke of the pleasure felt by participants in Christmas in Europe and wished them all a Happy Christmas. Marija Razan-Krizanac presented gifts to her ‘right-hand women’, and then the AEHT flag was handed over by the Zagreb team to the Bled delegation, headed by Mojca Jost who warmly invited everyone to the 21st Christmas in Europe in Bled in 2012 – an invitation loudly applauded by all those present.
Marija Razan- Krizanac then gave further presents to her right-hand women Ljiliana and Sandra. Nadine Schintgen, AEHT General Secretary, presented a gift to Marija on behalf of the AEHT, to thank her for organising this Christmas in Europe despite all the difficulties involved.
Appreciation shown to Ljiliana Lez Drnjenic 
The AEHT flag is handed over from Zagreb to Bled
Nadine Schintgen has just handed a present to Marija Razan-Krizanac
And just for good measure and as a fitting finale to this great evening, the large poster advertising Christmas in Europe in Zagreb was signed by all the participants. The signed poster will be on display as a souvenir in the Zagreb school.
First to sign the poster was Christiane Keller founder of Christmas in Europe. Just as you would expect!
