Traveling to Slovenia is a journey to a small European country whose historical ups and downs have influenced its architecture, culture, and traditions. Stay with Saed News to get acquainted with Slovenia's festivals.
Slovenia, officially known as the Republic of Slovenia, is a country in southern Central Europe. Its capital and largest city is Ljubljana. Slovenia joined NATO in 2004. It shares borders with Italy to the west, Austria to the north, Croatia to the south and southeast, and Hungary to the northeast. Slovenia is a parliamentary republic with a highly developed economy and social structure. About 61% of Slovenians are Christian, while the rest are either non-religious or follow other faiths. Until 1991, Slovenia was part of Yugoslavia, gaining independence that year. It was the northernmost part of the former Yugoslav Federation and declared independence in 1991 after a brief military conflict (the Ten-Day War) with Serbia. Historically, Slovenia has served as a bridge between the Balkans and Central and Western Europe. A large portion of the country is mountainous, with most of its population living in Ljubljana and its suburbs.
Slovenia has religious holidays known as Shrovetide. One of the most famous celebrations is the Dragon Festival, held in Ljubljana’s old town center at Prešeren Square. This festival is highly popular among locals, featuring lively street parades and puppet shows. A key highlight of the festival is the presence of people dressed as mythological and religious characters. However, the festival's most unique feature is the green dragon, the symbol of the city. This dragon, which takes on a new design each year, is crafted by local schools and paraded through the streets.
Since 1998, Ljubljana has hosted the Mladi Levi Festival at the end of each summer. Mladi Levi is an international contemporary dance and theater festival featuring individual performances in various locations, including courtyards, streets, and historic buildings. The festival lasts for more than ten days, from August 24 to September 1. It highlights performances by Slovenian artists as well as international acts, attracting both local and global participants. Many visitors to Slovenia plan their trip around this festival to experience its unique performances.
During winter, just before the Shrovetide carnival in Slovenia, a masked and powerful figure covered in sheep’s wool visits homes in the northern villages of this beautiful country. This furry creature is believed to bring prosperity and drive away the negative forces of winter. The northeastern region of Slovenia is highly fertile, filled with lush vineyards and farmlands, and features a legendary shaggy character that is beloved by locals.
In reality, this tradition is kept alive by local people who dress up in special costumes and masks before the Shrovetide carnival, organizing street parades and celebrations. According to ancient beliefs, a hairy figure named Kurent is a messenger of happiness, an abundant harvest, and a prosperous future. The origins of Kurent remain mysterious. Some theories link it to the Illyrians, who lived between 1000 and 300 BC, while others suggest it was introduced by the Scak people who migrated to the region in the 15th and 16th centuries. Regardless of its origins, Kurent is so significant to the people of northeastern Slovenia that it was inscribed on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage in December 2017.
Kurents wear long coats made of sheep’s wool, with red or green pendants hanging from their necks, black boots, and a symbolic weapon made from real hedgehog skin. Their faces are covered with leather masks, and each Kurent carries specific animal symbols, which differentiate them by region. Historically, Kurents were not necessarily made from sheep’s wool but from any available materials. Some farmers, who were unemployed in the winter, adopted Kurent costume-making as a profession. However, after the 1960s, urban migration reduced this tradition, and today, it is upheld by volunteers as a cultural symbol.
The Kurentovanje festival is Slovenia’s well-known spring and fertility festival, similar to Mardi Gras. First held in 1961, this festival has become an annual tradition in Slovenia. The festival revolves around the cultural character of Kurent. In early February, participants wear sheep-like wool coats and masks, symbolizing the farewell of winter and the arrival of spring. Kurentovanje takes place from February 25 to March 5 in the old town of Ptuj.
Attending major festivals in different countries is one of the most exciting experiences for travelers. These festivals, rooted in cultural or religious traditions, are celebrated throughout the year. Europe is home to many such large and thrilling events, offering unforgettable experiences for visitors.
