Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital, is renowned for its cultural magnetism, with its cobbled streets and Baroque buildings, all painting the picture for one of the most scenic Christmas markets in Europe.
Those who choose to visit during the festive season can begin their day with a stroll through the city’s twinkling streets before heading to one of the many free events. A concert outside the City Hall, street theatre performances, or a Christmas decoration workshop at the Magical Forest (which children love) are just a few of the many activities at hand.
For anyone seeking something a little different, the Land of Ice at Congress Square is as dazzling as it sounds. Intricate ice sculptures, including dragons inspired by the city’s legendary mascot, create what can only be described as a fairy-tale setting.
In Ljubljana, they like to do things differently. The decorations are not as visitors initially might expect with a Christmas Market. Instead, they opt for abstract ornaments, with the perspective of celebrating the whole world around us, from spotlighting the tiniest parts to the largest. Travellers might see a DNA strand, a female egg surrounded by sperm cells or galaxies and planets and numerous comets and geometric shapes. The comets on Slovenska Street are a particular favourite if artsy decorations catch one’s eye!
Lake Bled: A Romantic Winter Wonderland by the Water
Lake Bled is already one of Slovenia’s most beloved spots, and it becomes even more scenic during the Christmas season. Market stalls are set up along the lakeshore, with a backdrop of the majestic Julian Alps and Bled Castle on a cliff above. The snow-covered landscape, along with the lake’s famed island church, creates a storybook setting that seems tailor-made for the season.
At the Bled Christmas Market, locals and visitors alike can sip hot chocolate, sample festive honey cookies, and try the region’s signature dessert, the Bled cream cake. There’s also a lovely holiday tradition: a ceremonial “Christmas Bell” event, where a bell is lowered from a boat onto the lake, echoing a local legend of wishes granted to those who ring the bell.
Highlights include a music schedule on the Lakeside Promenade, running every weekend and daily from 23rd December. Expect folk, pop, and rock performances, a dedicated children’s programme on Sunday mornings, and the enchanting Legend of the Sunken Bell on Christmas Day.
This year’s theme, Romantic Bled, brings enhanced New Year lighting, a curated promenade experience, and an ice-skating rink. The festivities officially begin with the lighting ceremony on 30th November at 5 pm.
Key events include:
- Concerts: Performances from acts like Vili Resnik, CoverLover, and a Beatles tribute band.
- Children’s Highlights: Puppet shows, musical performances, and a special New Year’s Eve party for little ones.
- Traditions: The Friendship Circle and Bled’s renowned Legend of the Sunken Bell.
Maribor: A Medieval Christmas Market
Maribor, the second largest city in Slovenia, is located in the heart of the traditional region of Lower Styria – an area renowned for its wine production. From 28th November, Maribor’s Advent season comes alive with an abundance of festivities. Live music at Trg Leona Štuklja Square is well worth visiting to get into the Christmas spirit, while the Christmas market on Main Square, filled with traditional local foods and handmade gifts, is perfect for a little holiday browsing.
Culture enthusiasts can also watch performances at the Slovene National Theatre Maribor, street and Puppet Theatre, as well as visit exhibitions at cultural institutions sprawled across city streets.
More information can be found at www.slovenia.info
