Ljubljana illuminated in festive lights

This year’s New Year decoration is titled "Of Ratios and Relationships". As the designer Urban Modic explains, the concept examines our relationship with nature, with one another, with science, and with the universe. It explores the proportions between elements, the connections with other beings, and the relationships found in nature, mathematics, and art.

The main message of the installation is that we can maintain harmonious relationships even when we are different, much like the two sides of a golden ratio. This year’s decoration highlights the interconnections between beings, atoms, constellations, and other aspects of earthly and cosmic existence.

Ljubljana’s festive decoration is thus a tribute to natural harmony and perfect proportion, present in everything around us – from the smallest forms in nature to the grandest creations of the human mind.

The light installation explores the connections between nature, humanity, and the cosmos, between order and creativity, and between the visible and the invisible. Through a combination of geometry, light, and imagination, visitors are invited to experience the city as a living work of art full of symbolism, warmth, and magic.

Many of the sculptures and light features are newly designed, while some of the most iconic and established pieces are restored originals by Zmago Modic. Numerous sculptures are largely made from recycled elements from previous installations, including old public lighting and other materials.

The decoration thus combines sustainability, art, and science into a luminous narrative, reminding us that we are all part of the same beautifully balanced world.

This year, Ljubljana will be adorned not only with a magical light installation but also with 89 real Green trees – true festive beauties that, after the holidays, will return to nature instead of ending up in a landfill.

Students from Ljubljana’s primary schools, visitors from day centres for seniors, and teams from the Home Care Institute will help decorate the small city groves on Wolfova and Trubarjeva Streets, the Breg and Gallus Embankments, and Novi trg.

All residents are also invited to join in! Come and add your own festive touch to the trees along Stritarjeva and Čopova streets. Bring forgotten, unused, or unwanted ornaments that have long been stored away in attics – let them shine once more and delight passersby.

The switch-on of the holiday lights, together with a rich program of events in the city centre, will once again bring Ljubljana to life in a joyful festive rhythm.