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.
Start with a quick trip form. Weekend in Ptuj or a Slovenia route—we’ll plan the Kurent/Korant processions & parades, smart vantage points & timing, transport via Maribor/Ljubljana, and a walkable stay in the Old Town.
Prefer to talk it through? Book a free intro 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 Program for daily listings (opening parade, international parade, children’s parade, Kurent jump, etc.).
LOCATION
• Ptuj, Slovenia — events and parades take place across the historic center (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 Program · practical info on the Visitor page.
• For special viewpoints (e.g., City Tower) or partner venues, book through the official links provided by organizers.
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.
Tell us your dates, who’s coming, and what else you’d like to see. We’ll suggest a Slovenia route that includes the Kurentovanje at the right moment, with realistic travel days and comfortable home bases.
Prefer to start with a call? Book a free intro call.