Events
Kurentovanje in Ptuj
For one week each winter, Ptuj belongs to the Kurenti: figures in sheepskin coats with feathered masks and heavy cowbells, who leap through the streets to chase away winter. Kurentovanje is Slovenia's largest and oldest carnival — and recognised by UNESCO.
What to expect
- Kurentov skok (the Kurent's Leap) at midnight on 2–3 February, when the Kurenti officially take over the town
- Day of the Kurenti and Korant groups on 3 February at 18:00
- Evening presentations of traditional carnival figures on 4 and 5 February
- Night spectacle with fire show on 5 February at 20:00
- Children's carnival on 6 February at 15:00
- The International Ethnographic and Carnival Parade on Sunday 7 February at 12:00 — the highlight of the week, with hundreds of Kurenti and groups from across Europe
- Carnival Tuesday from 12:00 on 9 February, closing the festival
Only have one day?
Come on Sunday for theparade. Want Ptuj's old town without the crowds? Come midweek.
Read our full guide: Kurentovanje in Ptuj — tips, highlights and what to do with kids →
Don't miss this unique ethnographic experience, which offers valuable insight into picturesque carnival traditions from far and wide.
