Maribor, Slovenia’s second-largest city, is home to the annual Lent Festival, a celebration of culture, music, and art that takes place over the course of two weeks in July. The festival is held in Maribor’s old town, which is located on the banks of the Drava River. Here are 10 things to do during Maribor’s Lent Festival.
1. Enjoy the Music and Dance
The Lent Festival is a great place to enjoy traditional folk music and dance. The festival features performances by some of the best folk musicians in the region, as well as international acts. There are also daily dance performances, including traditional folk dances from the region.
2. Take a Boat Ride
Maribor’s old town is located on the banks of the Drava River, and the festival offers boat rides along the river. The boat rides are a great way to take in the sights of the city and get a different perspective of the festival.
3. Visit the Craft Market
The Lent Festival features a craft market, where local artisans sell their handmade crafts. The market is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
4. Taste the Local Cuisine
The Lent Festival is a great place to sample the local cuisine. There are numerous food stands offering traditional Slovenian dishes, such as goulash, potato pancakes, and strudel.
5. Take a Walking Tour
The Maribor Tourist Office offers guided walking tours of the old town during the festival. The tours are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the city.
6. Enjoy the Street Performers
The streets of Maribor are filled with street performers during the festival. The performers range from fire-eaters to jugglers and mimes.
7. Go to the Opera
The Maribor Opera House hosts performances during the festival. The opera house is one of the oldest in Europe and is home to some of the best opera singers in the world.
8. Visit the Museums
Maribor is home to numerous museums, including the Maribor Art Gallery, the Maribor Castle Museum, and the Maribor City Museum. The museums are a great way to learn more about the city’s history and culture.
9. Take a Bike Tour
The Maribor Tourist Office offers guided bike tours of the city during the festival. The tours are a great way to explore the city and get some exercise.
10. Party at the Clubs
Maribor is home to numerous clubs and bars, and the Lent Festival is a great time to check them out. The clubs offer a variety of music, from traditional folk music to electronic dance music.
The Maribor Lent Festival is a great way to experience the culture and history of the city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing boat ride or a wild night out, the festival has something for everyone.