The Best Summer Events in Ljubljana
When one thinks about long and hot summer days wild jumping to the beat of music, putting on a show in costumes or creating culinary masterpieces behind a hot stove are definitely not the things that come to one's mind. But what if you could watch other people do it? Ljubljana hosts many festivals, shows and other interesting events during the summer months that enable just that. In the visitor's shoes you won't have to give up your favorite activities but will still be able to enjoy them from the most comfortable angle there is.
Ljubljana Festival
The Ljubljana Festival makes an important contribution to the cultural life of Ljubljana with a carefully selected programme covering a wide variety of genres, including ballet, opera and theatrical productions, musicals, chamber and symphony concerts, the International Art Colony, master classes, children’s and youth workshops, Ljubljana Festival on the River Ljubljanica and much more. A rich repertoire of music, dance, acting and general artistic performances takes place throughout the summer and invites you into its embrace in the late afternoon and evening hours, when the city's atmosphere is already pleasantly cool.
© Katja Kodba
Open Kitchen
Open kitchen food market will make you hot with excitement but give you an opportunity to cool off with ice cream. It is a one of a kind food market and one of the most popular culinary projects in Slovenia that brings food lovers and culinary adventurers to Ljubljana's city centre every sunny Friday from March until November. Culinary events are enriched by occasional visits by top chefs who do not normally participate at the Open Kitchen, while street artists and popular DJs provide additional entertainment.
© Luka Dakskobler
Summer in Ljubljana Old Town
Every year, the traditional festival Summer in Ljubljana Old Town lightens up the city mood with a repertoire of classical music concerts in the picturesque surroundings of the old city center, admission to which is mostly free. The festival starts in June and lasts until the end of August, with the Nights in the Ljubljana Old Town event.
© Arhiv Turizma Ljubljana
Druga godba Band Festival
Those who prefer ethnic and jazz rhythms above classical music will be able to enjoy the Druga godba festival. Namely, this is one of the best European festivals with slightly different music, since it is difficult to completely fit it into established categories.
© Maja Bjelica
BIO27
If you want to let your artistic spirit fly, you can go to Bio Ljubljana, which is the oldest and one of the leading design biennials in the world. It explores an ambitious and growing movement that draws inspiration from vernacular and indigenous architecture and design traditions from around the world, on the basis of which it creates a radical vision of a more flexible and responsive future. In short: it is a real treat for the mind and eyes.
© Arhiv Centra za kreativnost
Film Under the Stars
Film under the stars is another one of the artistic visual candies: an annual cinema in the magical setting of the Castle courtyard, which is prepared in co-organization by Ljubljana Castle and Kinodvor. It is a great summer relaxation, offering beautiful views from the castle and an excellent cinematography.
© Domen Pal
Young Lions
If you prefer to enjoy the coolness of concrete buildings, you can go to Young Lions Festival, one of the most prominent annual events, which brings the most up-to-date stage creators from all over the world to Ljubljana at the end of summer. It is characterized by the demanding artistic profile of modern progressive theatre, and is especially known for discovering new talents. The festival is recognizable for its creative and lively atmosphere, curious audience and sociability - just like the inhabitants of Ljubljana.