About the festival

Jurjevanje, the oldest folklore festival in Slovenia, is based on the folk traditions of Bela Krajina and other regions of Slovenia. The five-day festival is held in the town of Črnomelj in Bela Krajina – the land of white birches, the warm Kolpa River, and rich cultural heritage.

The festival’s beginnings date back to 1933, or 1939, when the “Festival of National Songs and Dances” was held. This event was a special celebration of Bela Krajina, with dances, customs, and games that attracted visitors from all over Slovenia and can be considered the predecessor of today’s Jurjevanje Festival.

The first official Jurjevanje Festival in its current form was held in 1964. In the beginning, the festival was a spectacle of Bela Krajina folk dances from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In time, it evolved into a modern festival that combines past and modern traditions, both national and international. Each year various folk dance groups from Bela Krajina, Slovenia, and abroad demonstrate their diverse folk traditions.

By hosting folk dance groups from across the world, the Jurjevanje Festival creates a unique multicultural stage for the amicable coexistence of different cultures. In the last years, folk dance groups from many countries have taken the stage – from Columbia, Russia, Mexico, China, India, Belarus, Argentina, Malta, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Servia, Spain, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Montenegro, to Turkey, Poland, Finland, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Peru, the Netherlands, and more.

The festival offers an unparalleled experience for the visitors with its lively dances, singing, and customs. Some of the main attractions that create a unique festival atmosphere are the celebration of Midsummer’s Day, the Green George traditions and performances of national and international folk dance groups.

Multiple venues offer diverse programme for all ages:

“Pastirče Mlado” – a meeting of children's folk dance groups

A showcase of young folk dance groups from Bela Krajina who represent and preserve local folk traditions.

Ethno-folk, classical, and pop concerts

Concerts of various genres from folk to classical and pop, as well as the sounds of the local tamburica instruments.

Market of local delicacies and handicrafts
Market where local producers and craftspeople offer various homemade delicacies and handmade products.

Art exhibitions, workshops, and lectures

Art exhibitions by local and international artists, as well as workshops and lectures on culture, art, and traditions.

Children’s shows and creative workshops

For young visitors, fun and informative performances packed with laughter are scheduled along with creative workshops where children can express their imagination and let their creativity run loose, while having fun and creating art.

“Goni Kolo” – a family bike trip around Bela Krajina

A family cycling event for anyone who wants to explore Bela Krajina on a bike. It is run by the Sport and Recreation Association Črnomelj.