Celje, European Christmas City 2025
Celje is European Christmas City 2025. Discover Fairytale Celje, winter markets, and the hilltop castle of the Counts of Celje, plus tips for planning your visit.
Celje has been designated European City of Christmas 2025 within the European Capital of Christmas framework. The title recognises “Fairytale Celje”—lights, markets and performances set beneath Old Castle Celje (Stari grad Celje), described by official destination sources as Slovenia’s largest medieval castle, with earliest phases in the late 12th century and later seat of the Counts of Celje.
Designated by the Christmas Cities Networkas European City of Christmas 2025 (mid-size category) within the EuropeanCapital of Christmas framework; in 2025 the other honourees are Vilnius(European Capital of Christmas) and Noja (European Village of Christmas).
Fairytale lights beneath Slovenia's largest medieval castle
In winter, Celje transforms into a city full of light. Markets, music, and stories come to life among the historic facades, while the castle watches over the city like a guardian. In 2025, this tradition will be recognized at the European level: Celje will hold the title of European Christmas City 2025. This is an award within the European Capital of Christmas initiative, in which Vilnius was chosen as European Capital of Christmas and Noja as European Village of Christmas in the same year. For Celje, it is the crowning glory of years of ‘Fairytale Celje’: a festive season centered around light art, performances, crafts, and family fun.
What does this title mean – and why Celje?
Within the European Capital of Christmas framework, there are categories based on city size. Celje won the ‘European City of Christmas’ category (cities with between approximately 10,000 and 100,000 inhabitants) in 2025. In Dutch and Slovenian media reports, you will therefore see both ‘European City of Christmas’ and ‘European Christmas City’. The essence is the same: Celje is one of Europe's most appealing Christmas destinations thanks to a coherent, family-friendly program, an eye for heritage, and a warm, cozy atmosphere throughout the city center.
Celje, the castle & the counts
The silhouette of Celje is dominated by Stari grad Celje (Old Castle), located atop the ridge. It is considered the largest medieval castle in Slovenia and dates back to the second half of the 12th century. In the 14th and 15th centuries, it grew into the center of power for the Counts of Celje (descendants of the Lords of Žovnek). The dynasty left its mark on Central Europe and lives on today in the stories you encounter in and around the castle. The castle is not only a monument but also a stage: from living history to educational exhibitions and views of the city and the Savinja Valley.
How do you celebrate Christmas in Celje?
Start in the historic city center: atmospheric lighting, winter scents, and market stalls immediately set the tone. Then plan a visit to the castle at dusk: the city lit up below you is pure magic. The great thing is that Celje is compact and easy to walk around, with plenty of stops for coffee, treats, and crafts. When you book your trip, check the official program shortly before you go for the latest details.
Why Celje should be on your Slovenia itinerary (not just in December)
Celje's appeal extends beyond Advent. The castle is a spectacular vantage point all year round, while the regional museum and “Celeia – the Roman city beneath the modern town” take you on a journey through time. Celje is also strategically located for trips to Savinja and Laško.
Mini timeline: Counts of Celje
- Late 12th century: Early construction phases on the castle hill.
- 14th century: Rise from the Lords of Žovnek; consolidation in Celje.
- 15th century: Regional influence with court culture and alliances.
- Modern era: Heritage preservation; the castle as a public stage for stories and education.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why did Celje receive the European Christmas City 2025 title?
For its long-running, family-friendly festivities under “Fairytale Celje,” linking the historic centre and the castle. - Who awards the title?
The Christmas Cities Network within the European Capital of Christmas framework (source: EuropeanCapitalOfChristmas.org - Is Old Castle Celje really Slovenia's largest medieval castle?
Yes, this is how official destination channels (e.g., Visit Celje) describe it; the earliest phases date to the late 12th century.
Visit Slovenia's largest medieval castle, illuminated by winter lights below.
