Carnival Traditions in Slovenia’s Historical Towns

Carnival time (Pust) is one of the oldest folk traditions and among the most important popular festivities in Slovenia. Deeply rooted in the worship of spring and benevolent forces, it symbolises the return of the sun, the awakening of nature and the promise of abundance.

Over centuries, carnival customs have been passed down from generation to generation, developing distinctive local features and becoming an integral part of Slovenia’s rich cultural heritage. Disguises and rituals were traditionally believed to connect people with ancestral spirits and the natural world. Unique ethnographic masks, lively processions and ritual dances can still be experienced today—also in Slovenia’s historic towns, some of which are internationally renowned for their carnival traditions.

Kurents and Kurentovanje in Ptuj, 7–17 February 2026

The rounds of the Kurents, documented as early as 1880, are among Slovenia’s most important carnival traditions and have been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2017.

The Kurent is the most widespread, recognisable and iconic Slovenian carnival figure and a powerful symbol of national identity. With loud bells and a distinctive costume, the Kurent embodies the forces of nature that chase away winter. According to tradition, meeting a Kurent brings good luck and a bountiful harvest.

The Kurent also takes centre stage at Kurentovanje, Slovenia’s largest carnival, held in Ptuj since 1960. Often referred to as the “fifth season,” Kurentovanje is one of Europe’s largest open-air carnivals showcasing ethnographic masks. It begins with the Kurent’s Leap, followed by the opening procession and the symbolic takeover of the city by the Prince of Carnival. The highlight is the international carnival parade on Shrovetide Sunday, 15 February 2026. The festivities conclude on Shrove Tuesday.

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Kurentovanje: the largest Shrovetide carnival in Slovenia

Look behind the scenes of the largest Slovenian Shrovetide carnival.

Kurentovanje: the largest Shrovetide carnival in Slovenia

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Ptuj: Best Cultural Heritage Town in Europe for 2026

Experience the cultural life of the oldest Slovenian town.

Ptuj: Best Cultural Heritage Town in Europe for 2026

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Šelmarija – Prforcenhaus in Kostanjevica na Krki, Main events: 15–18 February 2026

Šelmarija is an autochthonous carnival tradition in Kostanjevica na Krki, based on the unique organisation of the Prforcenhaus and a series of ritual events in which townspeople humorously take control of the city. With a history spanning more than 170 years, the tradition features characters known as šelmarji, members of the Prforcenhaus society.

The central figure is Father Šelma – a metal mask shaped like a human head, carried on a pole at the front of the procession – joined by the canon, monks, the town band, burghers, lamplighters and others. Over several days, from the morning cannon salute and the proclamation of the Prforcenhaus committee to the main parade, the “driving out of the bear” on Tuesday, ritual ploughing and sowing, and the cheerful festivities on Wednesday, the event preserves the town’s distinctive identity and heritage.

Dobova Fašjenk (Dobovski fašjenk) in Brežice, Main parade: 21 February 2026

Dobova Fašjenk is a multi-day international carnival rooted in centuries-old tradition, culminating in a large international parade in Dobova. Its central figure is the Ločki Kosec, an autochthonous carnival character from the village of Loče in the Municipality of Brežice. With his scythe, he symbolically “cuts down” winter to make way for spring.

The Ločki Kosec wears a costume made of homespun linen, a red scarf, a tall hat decorated with colourful ribbons, and a cardboard mask. Cowbells hang from his belt, and in his hand he carries a scythe to chase away winter. He is followed by the ploughman pulling a plough and the old woman sowing grain. Together with Šelmarija, the carnival rounds of the Ločki Kosec, ploughmen and wedding figures are entered in the Register of Slovenian Intangible Cultural Heritage.

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Ribnica Carnival in Ribnica, Main parade: 14 February 2026

The Ribnica Carnival is one of the largest and best-known carnivals in Slovenia, celebrated for its rich tradition and diverse range of masks. Reflecting Ribnica’s renowned handicraft and woodenware heritage, the most characteristic figures are the Ribn’čani carrying wooden spoons. The parade also features guest ethnographic characters such as škoromati, korobači, burovži and kurents.

Each year, the carnival attracts large crowds who revel in humour, joy and delicious carnival treats. Through theatrical scenes and imaginative floats, local groups satirically comment on local and national authorities, as well as events of the past year.

Vomnsk’ Poh in Tržič, Carnival parade: 14 February 2026

(The traditional log-dragging ritual will not take place this year.)

The Lomski ploh, locally known as vomnsk’ poh, originates from the village of Lom pod Storžičem in the Municipality of Tržič. Traditionally, it took place when no weddings had occurred in the village between Christmas and Carnival—a time once closely associated with marriage.

The ploh (log in English) is a large spruce tree, symbolising the groom, dragged through the village by unmarried young men as a playful mockery of girls who did not wish to marry. The procession includes horsemen in traditional dress, horses, a weeping bride (portrayed by a man), and a cart carrying the “shamed” woman.

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Istrian Carnival Parade in Koper, Main parade: 14 February 2026

This visually striking carnival parade takes place right by the sea and represents the most spectacular carnival event on the Slovenian coast. Each year, it features a colourful selection of group costumes and themed floats, presenting Istrian traditions alongside satirical reflections on current local and global events. The parade is further enriched by visits from ethnographic carnival figures from across Slovenia.

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From ancient rituals to vibrant contemporary celebrations, carnival in Slovenia’s historic towns offers a rare opportunity to experience living heritage—where tradition, humour and community spirit come together in the heart of winter. Take a look at the story highlighting carnival traditions around Slovenia.

This article is part of an exciting partnership with the Association of Historical Towns of Slovenia. The partnership aims to bring you captivating stories from the historical towns nestled across Slovenia. As a regular feature of News from Slovenia, delivered to our valued subscribers, readers can expect to discover exciting stories from these timeless cities in the coming months. The contents and photos for this article were provided by the Association of Historical Towns of Slovenia.

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