Gastronomic events in Slovenia that are not to be missed

November Gourmet Ljubljana

Cheer up during November gloom by visiting a festival at which renowned Slovenian names in gastronomy gather and where the smells from the refined cuisine from Ljubljana’s selected restaurants fill in the air. Taste the result of a mix of tradition and innovativeness and discover new tastes of Ljubljana. Learn about Slovenia's world-class wines at the Slovenian Wine Festival or on the Ljubljana Wine Route, where, in the summer and on St Martin’s Day, renowned Slovenian wine-makers show their products on stands and where the aroma of traditional cuisine fills the air.

Idrija Žlikrof Festival

In addition to a mercury mine and bobbin lace, the UNESCO town of Idrija is also known for its culinary speciality – the Idrija žlikrofi. At first glance, this is a simple dish made of dough and potato filling, but it tastes wonderful both as a main dish or a side dish. It is absolutely well-worth tasting. And preparing it. You can do both if you visit the Idrija Žlikrof Festival, which takes place at the end of August. 

Wine Spring Holiday

When you visit Bela Krajina, locals will be happy to offer you a glass of Metliška Črnina wine and a belokranjska pogača (a leavened flatbread). You can taste this wine as well as many other high-quality local wines and specialities in May in the centre of Metlika, which hosts the Vinska Vigred (Wine Spring) Festival, one of the largest wine festivals in Slovenia.

Chocoljana

Taste the chocolate side of Ljubljana. In October, visit Pogačar Square, where you can taste the best chocolate flavours by renowned chocolate-makers and boutique chocolate shops and confectioneries. There, you can learn everything that you ever wanted to know about chocolate while, at the same time, embarking on the most unusual journey into the world of chocolate flavours.

Altroke Sweet Istria

In September, the streets of Koper transform into a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. If you visit the Sweet Istria festival, you can satisfy your sweet cravings just like the people of Slovenian Istria have done. In addition to traditional Istrian sweets, you can also taste desserts from other parts of Slovenia, or you might even be impressed by modern sweet masterpieces by Slovenian and foreign master confectioners.

Cherry holiday

“I like to eat red cherries, but I like black ones even better ...” Do you see yourself in this Slovenian folk song? Then do not miss the Cherry Festival in the Brda Hills. There, you will be able to fill your stomach with this red fruit, while also learning about other specialities of Brda cuisine and world-class wines, watch a traditional parade, and get rid of your guilty conscience for enjoying a rich feast by attending accompanying recreational events.

Fishermen’s Feast

Just like salt left its mark on the development of Piran, another resource from the sea played an important role for the town of Izola – fish. Every year, the locals celebrate their fishing soul at a traditional event called Fishermen’s Feast. The cuisine, with its main ingredient – fish, is also complemented by demonstrations of old traditions, an old boat regatta, a presentation of fishing work and equipment, and an abundance of other fun events. 

Tastes of the Vipava Valley

Due to its wealth of flavours, the Vipava Valley has made a name for itself among lovers of good food. If you are among them and would like to learn about the culinary diversity of this valley, then make sure to visit the Tastes of the Vipava Valley festival (Okusi Vipavske) in the spring at Zemono Manor. If you are unable to taste everything during the two-day festival, don’t worry, you can continue experiencing the tastes of the Vipava Valley at different locations all month long.

Beer and Flowers Festival

Laško has had a rich brewing tradition, so, here, you can experience many interesting beer-related things. In the summer, specifically in July, lovers of beer should not miss the Beer and Flowers Festival in Laško, one of the largest festivals in Slovenia. Although beer plays the main role, you can also taste other culinary specialities and enjoy the lively cultural events, entertainment, and concerts.

Festival of Wine and Chocolate in Podčetrtek

Do you prefer a glass of wine or satisfying your sweet tooth with chocolate? If you can’t decide, that’s all right. You can treat yourselves to both at the Festival of Wine and Chocolate in Podčetrtek. Wine- and chocolate producers from Slovenia and elsewhere come here to present their products. In addition to wine and chocolate, you can also satisfy your cravings by tasting other local delicacies.

Days of Poetry and Wine

The Days of Poetry and Wine in the old town centre of Ptuj are mixed with poetry and oenologic art, creating a unique international event. Every August, the best poets and artists from many countries gather here, and their recitals and concerts are accompanied by excellent Slovenian wines.

Tastes of Posavje

Experience the Posavje region through a wide array of culinary events reflecting the diverse flavours of this part of Slovenia. In Sevnica, you can taste local cured meat delicacies at the traditional Salami Festival (Salamiada), or visit the Blaufränkisch Festival held at Sevnica Castle.  In September, you can visit the Festival of Wine, Cuisine, and Art in Krško.

Festival of Chocolate

Every year in April, Radovljica changes into a town of chocolate. A three-day festival is one of the most attractive gastronomic events in Slovenia. The largest chocolate-related event in Slovenia hosts Slovenian and foreign chocolate shops. You can select your favourite chocolate during tasting sessions and the varied accompanying programme for all generations takes care of the excellent festival atmosphere.

Jestival

The Soča Valley is famous for being a paradise for outdoor activities. However, it also has much to offer in terms of cuisine. So, in October, when it feels good to take a bit of a break from summer activities, a unique festival is held, which combines local cuisine and art. The Jestival Food & Art Festival takes place in Kobarid, where the Kobarid štruklji, pockets stuffed with walnuts, raisins and spices, are the main culinary attraction. In addition to štruklji, you can also taste typical cheeses of the Soča Valley and other local delicacies.

Radol’ca culinary autumn

In October and November, visit Radovljica for exciting guided culinary experiences with a touch of the countryside, chocolate, honey and Slovenian wines. The flavours of Radol'ca invite you to the unique experience of Farmer's Table and Opening Dinner events in October, and to delicious menus made from traceable ingredients in November.

The Long Table of Kranj

Sit at one of the longest tables in the romantic surroundings of the courtyard of Khislstein Castle in Kranj, where you will be treated to a selection of local flavours and original dishes. The event is structured in a sustainable way and showcases the richness of Carniola and Alpine cuisine. It is presented in a unique way by Carniola chefs, using locally sourced ingredients and without the use of any plastics. The event is also an opportunity for intergenerational interaction and socialising.

Chocolate treats the Slovenian way

Are you a chocoholic? If so, Slovenia is your promised land! Visit chocolate festivals and excellent chocolate shops, and taste chocolate mixed with the local ingredients. Also experience the beneficial effects of chocolate on your skin, with special wellness programmes to curb any guilty conscience.

When you taste the aroma of coffee

In Slovenia, you will often be invited for a coffee. New business relationships, friendships, even new romances are born over a coffee. Coffee has also inspired Slovenian creatives, so you will come across it on canvases and between book covers. So, would you like to have a coffee – the Slovenian way?

The story of Slovenian olive oil

Have you ever tasted extra virgin olive oil from Slovenian Istria? Oil with a protected designation of origin will surely impress your taste buds. You will also find the rich taste of olive oil in other parts of Slovenia that are influenced by the Mediterranean climate. Follow it from the olive orchard to the press.

Discover the taste of Slovenian beer

When you meet people you know in Slovenia, you are usually invited for a coffee or ‒ a beer. Traditional beer fans will choose between Union and Laško, while the more adventurous will indulge in the more extravagant flavours of Slovenian craft beer. Along with the beer also comes a range of related experiences. Did you know that in the town of Žalec you can pour yourself beer from a fountain?