Must-attend events in Slovenia for 2025
From festivals celebrating age-old traditions to contemporary art exhibits that push the boundaries of creative expression, Slovenia offers events year-round that are a window into the heart of the country. Here are five standout events in 2025:
1. Gorizia and Nova Gorica: GO2025 — European Capital of Culture
GO2025 should definitely not be missed: 2025 is an exciting year for Gorizia and Nova Gorica as they jointly hold the prestigious title of European Capital of Culture. This milestone makes them the first cross-border cities to share the honor, symbolizing the unity and rich cultural exchange between Italy and Slovenia. Throughout the year, these vibrant border cities will host a diverse array of cultural, artistic and educational events.
2. LUV Fest: A celebration of love, art, and heritage in Ljubljana
In February, Ljubljana will come alive with the LUV Fest, an enchanting celebration that beautifully intertwines love, culture, and heritage. This festival is perfectly timed to coincide with significant cultural milestones, beginning with the anniversary of the death of the poet France Prešeren and culminating in the symbolic “bird marriage” that marks early spring.
3. Kurentovanje: Slovenia’s vibrant carnival celebration and UNESCO recognition
Kurentovanje, Slovenia’s largest and most colorful carnival festival, takes over the town of Ptuj every year during carnival season, from February 22 to March 4, 2025. At the heart of Kurentovanje is the iconic parade of the Kurents — masked figures draped in elaborate, bell-bedecked costumes. These mystical characters are believed to chase away winter and usher in the warmth and renewal of spring. Recognized by UNESCO as World Intangible Cultural Heritage, this event offers an unparalleled glimpse into Slovenia’s rich culture. Beyond the parade, the festivities extend across the town with street performances, traditional music and folk dancing.
4. Ulay/Marina Abramović Exhibition: A Journey into Performance Art
Contemporary art enthusiasts will find a fantastic experience in the Ulay/Marina Abramović exhibition, hosted at Cukrarna in Ljubljana from November 30, 2025, to May 3, 2026. Ulay and Marina Abramović are pioneers in the realm of performance art, celebrated for their groundbreaking and boundary-pushing work that explores the depths of human expression, endurance, and emotional transformation. This exhibition offers a rare, multifaceted exploration of their creative period together from 1976 to 1988, a time marked by radical performances that challenged both the artists and their audiences.
5. Christmas Lights in Slovenia: A Winter Wonderland
In December, Slovenia transforms into a glowing winter wonderland, as its streets, squares and public spaces come alive with a dazzling display of Christmas lights. From the vibrant capital city of Ljubljana to the picturesque towns of Maribor, Celje, and Piran, the entire country embraces the festive season with warmth and joy.
