If you visit Slovenia at carnival time, you will certainly come across a carnival mask or two, if not even a carnival procession. Many towns and localities hold a carnival procession for a Saturday or Sunday carnival, which in some places includes a diverse accompanying programme. Here are some of the largest Slovenian carnivals that are definitely worth a visit.
The international Shrovetide carnival in Ptuj is considered the largest Shrovetide celebration in Slovenia. The origins of Shrovetide celebrations in the oldest Slovenian town reach far back – this year marks 150 years since the first Shrovetide parade. Kurenti, special Ptuj carnival characters, stand out the most among the versatile colourful masks. The door-to-door rounds of Kurenti have been entered on UNESCO’s Lists of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Kurenti are accompanied by a number of traditional characters, such as ploughmen, whip crackers, spearmen, log-haulers and other Shrovetide masks.
Who are the scary-looking benevolent characters hiding under sheep’s skin? Despite their demonic appearance, Kurenti are positive characters, as they chase away the winter and evil spirits and herald the arrival of spring, happiness, prosperity and abundant harvest. The cow bells on their belts resound far away and they are always warmly welcome wherever they appear. Get to know their story, tradition, costume and customs, which have found their place among UNESCO’s heritage.
MoreWho are the scary-looking benevolent characters hiding under sheep’s skin? Despite their demonic appearance, Kurenti are positive characters, as they chase away the winter and evil spirits and herald the arrival of spring, happiness, prosperity and abundant harvest. The cow bells on their belts resound far away and they are always warmly welcome wherever they appear. Get to know their story, tradition, costume and customs, which have found their place among UNESCO’s heritage.
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The laufarji rule in Cerkno and its surrounding area during the Shrovetide. This is one of the most signature traditional Shrovetide groups that attracts many visitors to the Cerkno Hills. The group comprises 25 Shrovetide characters who represent the distinct features and weaknesses of individual groups of people. The central event of Laufarija is the sentencing of Pust (Shrovetide Man) in the square in Cerkno for everything bad that happened in the previous year.
Kurenti, Škoromati, Cerkljanski Laufarji... Learn about the traditional characters and carnival customs that for centuries have been passed down from generation to generation disclosing human nature. They are entered in the Register of Intangible Heritage of Slovenia, some of them have been declared masterpieces of its genre of national importance.
If you visit Cerknica on Carnival Sunday, there will be much to see for you. A special feature of the carnival are huge figures accompanying the carnival masks on the parade through the streets of Cerknica. Meet the witch Ursula, the mother of all witches who have their "nest" at the top of Slivnica hill, the water man Jezerko, the giant pike, Butalci and other characters who will surely leave an impression on you.
It's been a long time since the Ljubljana dragon was last seen. Or has it? At carnival time, the dragon actually sneaks into Ljubljana’s old city centre and brings carnival masks from all across Slovenia including ethnological carnival characters, masks portraying children and other carnival groups.
Join us at the Shrovetide parade on the Slovenian coast. Traditional Shrovetide characters and diverse modern masks can be seen in the streets of Koper. Group masks are particularly interesting, as they reflect the current developments in society and people’s imagination knows no boundaries when creating them.
On carnival Saturday, the streets of Kranj old town centre are flooded with colourful masks, the smell of doughnuts and a festive atmosphere. Take a look at the carnival procession and dance in a masked ball to the disco rhythms, while kids will also have their carnival fun activities.
Shrovetide masks stroll along the streets of Celje from Krek to Main Square on Shrovetide Saturday. Adults and children join in the parade, while spreading cheer and inviting spring into the country. The best masks, which receive awards, are chosen at the Main Square.
Therefore, take a look at some other carnivals and carnival parades that are held in Slovenian towns and villages. Make it a carnival to your taste.
Get to know the most typical carnival customs and dishes that should not be missed at carnival time. Explore the treasures of natural and cultural heritage and discover the Slovenian soul at various festivals.
Discover how vibrant and mischievous the Slovenian Shrovetide is.
Enjoy the Carnival season at a table laden with the season's finest dishes.
Learn about life as it once was and as it is now at the most well-known ethnological festivals.
Slovenian treasure troves of world heritage
The oldest town in Slovenia, nestled between gentle wine-growing hills and the River Drava.
You can enjoy the work of some of the most important creators and performers from all over the world if you visit festivals in Slovenia.
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