Kurent Festival (Kurentovanje) the biggest shrovetide carnival in Slovenia
Kurentovanje Ptuj is a Slovenian carnival tradition with roots in ancient pagan rituals. Recognized for its cultural significance, Kurentovanje was added to the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2017.
The main figure of the Ptuj carnival is the Kurent, a horned and hairy creature that chases away winter and brings good luck. The origins of the festival are obscure, but may derive from ancient Slavic, Celtic or Illyrian customs. The festival features parades, music and traditional costumes.
Kurentovanje takes place annually in Ptuj, the oldest town in Slovenia, and its modern version was first held in 1960.
Photo curtesy of kurentovanje.net
Ptuj Carnival 2025
In 2025, Kurentovanje begins on February 22 and ends on March 4. During the carnival festival, Ptuj is transformed into an open-air ethnographic museum, with a variety of traditional characters parading through the streets, including Kurents, spearmen, gypsies and ploughmen. Highlights include the “Kurent Jump” at midnight on February 2, where Kurents wear their bells around the fire to drive away winter and evil, the “Day of Kurent and Korant Groups” on February 26, and the international carnival procession on March 2.
With its unique blend of history, tradition and folklore, Kurentovanje carnival festival offers an unforgettable experience for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in Slovenian culture and learn more about the largest Slovenian carnival.
The official website of the Ptuj Carnival offers more information about the carnival events. On this link you can find a map showing where the international carnival parade will take place.
