Kurentovanje (Kurent Festival) is Slovenia’s most famous Carnival celebration, held each February in the historic town of Ptuj. Rooted in pre-Christian traditions, the festival centers on the figure of the Kurent, a shaggy, masked character wearing sheepskin garments, bells, and feathers, who dances and makes noise to chase away winter and welcome spring. The celebration includes parades, folk performances, music, and costume contests, drawing thousands of visitors from across Europe. Declared part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, Kurentovanje blends ancient ritual, folk art, and joyful chaos, making it one of Central Europe’s most distinctive and unforgettable Carnival festivals.
Planning Kurentovanje? We’ll time parades & processions, reserve viewing spots, arrange workshops/mask-maker visits, secure lodging nearby, and sort transport—Book a free planning call.
DATES & TIMES
• Dates: 7–17 February 2026 (Saturday–Tuesday).
• Confirmed window for the 66th edition — see Visit Ptuj · Slovenia.info · Official site.
• Pattern: citywide carnival days leading up to Shrove Tuesday (parades, Kurent/Korant rituals, concerts).
• The exact timetable publishes annually — follow the official Programme for daily listings (opening parade, international parade, children’s parade, Kurent jump, etc.).
LOCATION
• Ptuj, Slovenia — events and parades take place across the historic centre (Mestni trg, Slovenski trg, Drava riverside) per official listings.
• Central reference point: Mestni trg, Ptuj — Open in Google Maps · city info: Visit Ptuj overview.
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Mostly free viewing for outdoor parades; selected indoor shows, viewpoints or experiences may be ticketed via official links — check the Programme · practical info on the Visitor page.
• For special viewpoints (e.g., City Tower) or partner venues, book through the official links provided by organisers.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Kurent/Korant door‑to‑door rounds are on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list — see UNESCO info.
• Expect large crowds on main parade days; allow time for access and movement around the old town.
• Public transport and visitor services are centralised via Ptuj tourism — see City tourism.
Want us to pick the best parade viewpoints, time your days and slot in ticketed highlights? We’ll craft a smooth Kurentovanje plan — Hire Tripologiste.