Moto Budnica in Bjelovar: From Workers' Protest to Intangible Cultural Heritage

Team: Ela Hamzić (First year of the Master's program in Journalism, Faculty of Political Science - University of Zagreb, Croatia) & Nina Čepo (Second year of the Master's program in Journalism, Faculty of Political Science - University of Zagreb, Croatia). Mentor: Renata Boljun / Freelance journalist Central idea of this project is to capture a unique yearly event that happens on International Workers day in the city Bjelovar in Croatia. “Moto Budnica” is the traditional gathering of motorcyclists on May 1st. It started as a rebellion of unsatisfied workers in the early twentieth century , but it grew to become a part of the Register of Cultural Goods of the Republic of Croatia as intangible cultural heritage in 2024. “Budnica” in Croatian means a popular song intended to awaken the national feelings of the broader population or a wake up call for soldiers. “Moto Budnica” is something similar, but with the sound of motorcycles. Moto Budnica in Bjelovar is the traditional gathering of motorcyclists on May 1st to celebrate International Workers' Day. It was officially inscribed in the Register of Cultural Goods of the Republic of Croatia as intangible cultural heritage in 2024. Historical research reveals that the tradition of the Budnica dates back to 1920 when the first, then illegal, Moto Budnica took place in Bjelovar as a protest by disenfranchised workers. Riding motorcycles without mufflers through the city, workers expressed their dissatisfaction with the social order of the time. The event started as a workers' revolt, symbolizing resistance against the capitalist authorities of the era. Today, Bjelovar Moto Budnica attracts participants from across Croatia and abroad, significantly contributing to the cultural identity and tourism appeal of Bjelovar. For example, in 2024, the event hosted 1,200 motorcycles, quads, and over 1,700 participants. Participants drive on their motorcycles though town in the sunrise to wake up citizens and celebrate International Workers' Day. This manifestation carries great cultural, social, and tourism potential. As a symbol of resistance, freedom, and unity, the Budnica fosters a sense of community and commitment to preserving tradition. Additionally, it attracts visitors not only from Croatia but also internationally, boosting tourism and strengthening the local economy. Technical equipment for filming and editing: Two Iphone 15 pro mobile phones RODE microphones Stabilizers (shoulderpod, gimbal)