Social Networking Activities

PURPLE RUN

This is one of our favorite networking activities - and one you truly shouldn’t miss!
Get ready for a beautiful run along the famous European Danube River. We will cross the Petrovaradin Bridge and head toward the spectacular viewpoint at the Petrovaradin Fortress, where you will enjoy a wine tasting and one of the most breathtaking sunsets over the city.
Petrovaradin Fortress, often called the “Gibraltar on the Danube,” was built in the 17^th and 18^th centuries by the Habsburg Monarchy as a strategic military stronghold. Throughout history, it played a crucial role in defending Central Europe from Ottoman invasions. Today, it stands as one of the best-preserved baroque fortifications in Europe and a symbol of Novi Sad’s cultural identity.
And don’t worry about the run - we welcome both runners and walkers. The Purple Run is about connection, fun, and shared energy.
All participants will be placed into themed teams. You might find yourself in the Rhodobacter sphaeroides team, the Rhodospirillum rubrum team, the Rhodopseudomonas palustris team, the Chlorella vulgaris team, the Arthrospira platensis team, the Haematococcus pluvialis team, and more. Your team assignment will be revealed during registration.
The team with the best overall combined time (the sum of all runners’ and walkers’ times) will receive a special award. So, who will win - the Purple Bacteria team or the Microalgae team?
Let the friendly scientific rivalry begin.

Free activity for all 2^nd PHOTOREFINERIES participants

SOUL TOUR NOVI SAD

Taste the Spirit of the City

This one of purple networking activities - a social experience designed for you and your colleagues to truly meet Novi Sad, its streets, some of main architecture and culture spots, and most importantly, its people.
You will walk through some of the most interesting streets of the city, pass key architectural and cultural landmarks, and visit 5 carefully selected local places bars/pubs/restaurants, where you will feel the authentic spirit of Novi Sad.
At each location, you will enjoy local food and drinks. Five locations, five flavours, five different city experiences.
Every participant receives a specially created NS Soul Tour Map, clearly marking your route and the locations of all 5 local bars/pubs/restaurants. You will receive 5 vouchers – one for each place – and each voucher includes food (finger food, or typical local bites) and one beer or wine.
This is a journey through atmosphere, flavours, stories, and the true spirit of Novi Sad. Enjoy your journey.

Price: 60 EUR

Authentic Northern Serbian country retreat with a Guided Kayaking Experience

This special networking activity is planned for Friday, the final day of the conference - the perfect way to relax, connect, and experience the true spirit of northern Serbia.
After the conference closing session, we will travel to the authentic Vojvodinian village of Turija, where we will visit Salaš Tatić - a traditional farmstead nestled beside a calm and picturesque river typical of the Pannonian plain.
Surrounded by open landscapes, slow waters, and complete tranquillity, participants will have the opportunity to join a guided kayaking tour led by experienced instructors from the Wild Serbia organization. The river is peaceful and slow flowing, making it suitable even for beginners. No prior kayaking experience is required - just curiosity and a sense of adventure.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, small boat will be available for a short ride along the river, offering a chance to fully absorb the quiet beauty of the Vojvodinian countryside.
Following the outdoor activities, we will enjoy a traditional dinner prepared on the farmstead. Guests will taste authentic regional specialties, including a starter, main course, and dessert, accompanied by unlimited local beverages. Expect rich flavours, homemade recipes, and the warmth of Serbian hospitality.
You will leave with memorable impressions.

Price: 75 EUR 
(include transportation, kayaking tour, dinner and unlimited beverages)