Top Events in Slovakia 2020

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TOP EVENTS IN SLOVAKIA 2020

Prepared by:

Tourism Section Department of Destination Management Ing. Viera Norisová Veronika Krakovská

03.12.2019

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JANUARY

22 November 2019 – 31 March 2020 Tatra Ice House 2020 (Tatranský ľadový dóm 2020) Come to beautiful Hrebienok this winter and experience the magic of the majestic Tatra Ice House. A masterpiece was crafted by 18 ice sculptors from Lithuania, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia, this year’s main builder is Adam Bakoš. An incredible 1880 blocks of ice weighing together more than 225 tons were used to construct it. The ice house is located inside a 25-meter-diameter dome whose highest point is 11.5 meters above the ground. The main theme this year of this gorgeous, magnificent ice temple is the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in Gothic style, some of its beauty was lost in a fire on 15 April 2019. You can see in the Tatra Ice House a replica of its beautiful western façade with the three main entrances, dominated in the center by a rosette-shaped stained glass window. The two front belfry towers above dominate the main entrances. Place: Starý Smokovec- Hrebienok Contact: http://www.regiontatry.sk

6 December 2019 – 4 January 2020 St. Nicholas Day and Christmas at the Castle (Svätý Mikuláš a Vianoce na zámku) Romantic Bojnice Castle will be filled this Christmas season with the scent of pine needles and glimmering decorations. There will also be festive guided tours of the castle for both local and international visitors. Place: Bojnice Castle Contact: http://www.bojnicecastle.sk

9 November 2019 – 11 January 2020 – 8 February 2020 Winter Run Series 2019-2020 (Zimná bežecká séria 2019-2020) This is a series of events during the winter for running enthusiasts. The seventh edition of the Winter Run Series consists of four separate races at various locations within the High Tatras. The third round takes place in Veľká Lomnica on 11 January 2020, with the finals to be held at Tatranská Polianka on 8 February 2020. Place: Veľká Lomnica, Tatranská Polianka Contact: http://www.regiontatry.sk; http://tatryvpohybe.sk/sk/podujatia/zbs2019

10-12 January 2020 IBU Cup Biathlon Place: Brezno-Osrblie Contact: http://www.horehronie.sk

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15 January – 23 February 2020 2020 Winter Food Festival (Zimný festival jedla 2020) The best chefs from Slovakia’s top restaurants, ranked the highest in the popular Slovakia Gourmet Guide will be offering visitors special menus at the 7th Annual Winter Food Festival in categories of Slovakia’s iconic meals, regional delicacies and chef’s selections. Place: Different regions of Slovakia Contact: www.zimnyfestivaljedla.sk

23-26 January 2020 ITF SLOVAKIATOUR The 26th SLOVAKIATOUR INTERNATIONAL TOURISM TRADE FAIR is the largest fair devoted to the tourist industry in Slovakia and one of the most important events in Central Europe. Danubius Gastro The 27th professional restaurant and hotel exhibition presents a comprehensive range of professional instruments and equipment from the catering and hospitality sectors, covering furniture, food, beverages, packaging materials, business and advertising. Fishing and leisure (Rybárstvo a voľný čas)The second year of this Bratislava exhibition opens the 2020 fishing season and has everything for both novice and experienced fishermen looking to learn something new, while purchasing fishing accessories at discounted prices. Hunting and relaxing (Poľovníctvo a oddych) The 27th year of this international specialized exhibition provides an opportunity for companies to inspire hunters and nature enthusiasts to spend free time outdoors in the country. Place: Incheba Expo, Bratislava Contact: www.incheba.sk

24-25 January 2020 The 13th Annual Svätý Jur Wine Cellar Day 2020 (Deň svätojurských pivníc 2020 - 13. ročník) Place: Svätý Jur Contact: https://www.terroir.sk/sjvs/

24-26 January 2020 Biela Stopa EUROLOPPET 2020 This “Everest of long-distance races” takes place on the slopes of the Skalka near Kremnica, with races organized under current FIS rules for mass cross-country skiing. Place: Skalka Ski Center, Kremnica Contact: www.bielastopa.sk

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25 January 2020 STUPAVA WINTER MTB & RUNNING TROPHY 2020 (Zimný MTB maratón – STUPAVA 2020) This winter event for mountain biking and running enthusiasts is the only one of its kind in Slovakia and Central Europe. Place: Little Carpathian Mountains: Stupava – INTENZÍVA Pension (Nová ulica) Contact: www.stupavskymaraton.sk

FEBRUARY

9 November 2019 – 11 January 2020 – 8 February 2020 Winter Run Series 2019-2020 (Zimná bežecká séria 2019-2020) This is a series of events during the winter for running enthusiasts. The 7th edition of the Winter Run Series consists of four separate races at various locations within the High Tatras. The third round takes place in Veľká Lomnica on 11 January 2020, with the finals to be held at Tatranská Polianka on 8 February 2020. Place: Veľká Lomnica, Tatranská Polianka Contact: www.regiontatry.sk; http://tatryvpohybe.sk/sk/podujatia/zbs2019

15 January – 23 February 2020 Winter Food Festival 2020 (Zimný festival jedla 2020) The best chefs from Slovakia’s top restaurants, ranked the highest in the popular Slovakia Gourmet Guide will be offering visitors special menus at the 7th Annual Winter Food Festival in categories of Slovakia’s iconic meals, regional delicacies and chef’s selections. Place: Different regions of Slovakia Contact: www.zimnyfestivaljedla.sk

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20 February and 27 February 2020 Winter Astrotrain (Zimný Astrovlak) The Winter Astrotrain (Zimný Astrovlak) will be running on the narrow-gauge railway in Čierny Balog for passengers to enjoy the night sky and stars. Both children and their parents have the opportunity to board the Čiernohronská railway and enjoy an unforgettable experience. Place: Čierny Balog, Open Air Forestry Museum Contact: http://www.horehronie.sk

28-29 February 2020 International Traditional Sleigh Races (Medzinárodné krňačkové preteky) Place: Brezno/Jasná Krupová Contact: http://www.horehronie.sk

February 2020 Snow Dogs - Eskimo Fun Weekend below Lomnický Štít (Snežné psy - Eskimácky víkend zábavy pod Lomničákom) The 11th edition of this rather unusual winter festival for families with children takes place at the Tatranská Lomnica cable car station and the Štart intermediate station above Tatranská Lomnica, and also on the Čučoriedky Západ (West Blueberry) slope. The program features different genres, a fast musher race and the chance to ride a sled drawn by husky sled dogs at no charge. Fantastic weekend adventures in the snow await even the youngest visitors, with the INUIT ROUTE and ARCTIC EXPEDITION ready both Saturday and Sunday. Place: Tatranská Lomnica Contact: www.regiontatry.sk

15 February 2020 Pezinok Wine Cellars (Pezinské vínne pivnice) The 12th year of the event takes place in the Small Carpathian Museum in Pezinok as well as in the town’s cellars and winemaking facilities. Members of the Association of Pezinok Winegrowers and Winemakers along with visiting wineries will be offering young and older vintages of fine wine, as visitors learn about the regional cuisine and tour historical wine cellars. Advance ticket sales start 17 December 2019 and reservations can be made electronically at [email protected] or through www.wisomm.com. Place: Pezinok Contact: www.muzeumpezinok.sk; www.pvp.sk

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MARCH

5-21 March 2020 Wine, Women and Scents - the 16th Annual (Víno, Ženy a Vône – 16. ročník) Famous ladies from the world of wine join in an all-female wine tasting for women who wine. Place: Pezinok - Vinum Galeria Bozen Contact: www.mvc.sk

11-17 March 2020 The 27th Annual International FEBIOFEST Film Festival (Medzinárodný filmový festival FEBIOFEST 2020 - 27. ročník) The main feature of FEBIOFEST is going to be In the Center of Europe, the traditional short films competition. Also this year’s festival showcases 20 feature, documentary, animated and experimental films up to 30 minutes in length produced during 2019 in Slovakia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Austria and Ukraine. The main festival takes place in Bratislava with the selected films subsequently screened in other cinemas throughout Slovakia. Place: Bratislava and other regional cities Contact: www.febiofest.sk

March 2020 Senec Hand – International Arm Wrestling World Cup (Senecká ruka) Come experience the atmosphere in Senec watching strong men press their hands together in an international arm-wrestling tournament. 2020 is the 27th year of this event. Place: City Cultural Center, Senec Contact: http://www.armsport.sk

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APRIL

22 November 2019 - April 2020 Tatra Ice House 2020 (Tatranský ľadový dóm 2020) Come to beautiful Hrebienok this winter and experience the magic of the majestic Tatra Ice House. A masterpiece was crafted by 18 ice sculptors from Lithuania, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia, this year’s main builder is Adam Bakoš. An incredible 1880 blocks of ice weighing together more than 225 tons were used to construct it. The ice house is located inside a 25-meter-diameter dome whose highest point is 11.5 meters above the ground. The main theme this year of this gorgeous, magnificent ice temple is the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in Gothic style, some of its beauty was lost in a fire on 15 April 2019. You can see in the Tatra Ice House a replica of its beautiful western façade with the three main entrances, dominated in the center by a rosette-shaped stained glass window. The two front belfry towers above dominate the main entrances. Place: Starý Smokovec- Hrebienok Contact: www.regiontatry.sk

18 April 2020 The Modra Wine Cellars Day (Deň modranských pivníc) In today’s Little Carpathians Wine Region, the free royal city of Modra has played an important role in winegrowing and winemaking since medieval times and even earlier. This event seeks to return Modra’s ancient cellars to their former glory and make a part of the town’s cultural and technical heritage accessible to visitors. It was first held under modest conditions in 2004 and since then the Modra Wine Cellars Day has been attracting ever more interest from both visitors to the town and winemakers each year. About 35 cellars, 40 winemakers and approximately 1,500 visitors join the event to bring the town to life. Place: Modra Contact: www.modranskepivnice.sk

4 - 5 April 2020 The 15th ČSOB Bratislava Marathon 2020 (ČSOB Bratislava Marathon 2020 - 15. ročník) Get moving this spring! Enter this remarkable sporting event full of tradition. Place: Bratislava Contact: www.bratislavamarathon.com

19 April 2020 The 73rd Devín – Bratislava National Run (73. národný beh Devín – Bratislava) The oldest road race and athletic event held in Slovakia. The number of people entering it has rapidly risen in recent years. In 2019, over 7,000 runners took part. Place: Bratislava Contact: www.devin-bratislava.eu

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April 2020 Bratislava City Days 2020 (Bratislavské mestské dni 2020) This major event will have its 17th edition in 2020, with Bratislava’s government providing free admission to dozens of events run by the city. Spend an attractive weekend in the city, at its cultural organizations, in the squares and also in the nearby countryside. Place: Bratislava Contact: www.visitbratislava.com

April 2020 Opening the Castle Gates (Otvorenie hradných brán) Exhibit at Stará Ľubovňa Castle Place: Stará Ľubovňa Castle, Stará Ľubovňa Contact: www.hradlubovna.sk

April 2020 Summer Tourist Season Opens at the Camp (Otvorenie letnej turistickej sezóny v tábore) You are invited to enjoy medieval food and drink and view attractions worth visiting. Place: Stará Ľubovňa - Medieval Military Camp Contact: www.marmon.sk

30 April - 3 May 2020 Flóra Bratislava 2020 International Floral and Horticulture Exhibition (Medzinárodná výstava kvetov a záhradníctva) Place: Incheba, Bratislava Contact: www.florabratislava.sk; www.incheba.sk; http://www.kulla.sk

MAY

1 May 2020 Boating season starts at the Baťa Canal (Otvorenie plavebnej sezóny na Baťovom kanáli) Come to Skalica, Slovakia’s only port on the Baťa Canal, to enjoy a beautiful romantic cruise and experiencing the opening of the sailing season with the symbolic unlocking of the Baťa Canal’s water to allow boats and other watercraft to again sail along this artificially created waterway. Place: Canal Port, Skalica Contact: www.prvaplavebna.sk

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7-8 May 2020 REGION TOUR EXPO 2020 The 9th annual exhibition of regional tourism Taste of Slovakia (Chuť Slovenska) – the 5th annual exhibits of food and non-food products from Slovakia Cakes and the World of Baking (Torty a svet pečenia ) – the 8th annual nationwide confectionary exhibit Place: Trenčín Contact: www.expocenter.sk

9 May 2020 Wine at the Castle 2020 – 10th edition (Vína na hrade 2020 - 10. ročník) The wineries of the Little Carpathian Wine Region present their vintages at the country’s largest wine cellars in Červený Kameň Castle Place: Červený Kameň (Bibersburg) Castle Contact: www.mvc.sk

16 May 2020 Night of Museums and Galleries (Noc múzeí a galérií) The Night of Museums and Galleries is a European-wide event sponsored by the Council of Europe to present Europe's cultural heritage, highlight the importance of preserving and protecting it in cultural exchanges, disseminate information about the cultural diversity of individual countries and regions of Europe and provide non-formal education and cultivated recreation. Place: Slovakia Contact: https://www.muzeum.sk/noc-muzei-a-galerii-2019.html

22-23 May 2020 The 14th Annual St. Urban Day of Open Wine Cellars 2020 (Otvorené pivnice na sv. Urbana 2020 - 14. ročník) The Little Carpathian Region Wine Route’s season traditionally opens on St. Urban Day. Purchase an admission ticket to taste the wines from the Little Carpathian Region’s winemakers at more than 150 cellars between Bratislava-Devín and Trnava. Place: Little Carpathians Wine Route Contact: www.mvc.sk

May 2020 May Celebration (Bratislava Majáles), (Bratislavský majáles) This open-air festival on the right bank of the Danube has been the traditional start of the Bratislava season of cultural and social events for the greater public since 2008. This year’s Majáles features several hours of live concerts along with a number of accompanying events. Place: Tyršovo nábrežie, Bratislava Contact: www.bratislavskymajales.sk; www.visitbratislava.com

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May 2020 Main Season Opening at the Vydrovská Dolina Open Air Forestry Museum (Otvorenie hlavnej sezóny v Lesníckom skanzene vo Vydrovskej doline) A historic train takes you through one of the most magnificent and purest valleys in Slovakia and across the Open Air Forestry Museum. The opening of the season and related events are managed by state-owned Lesy SR (Forests of the Slovak Republic). There are also wonderful hiking and cycling trails near the Vydrovo end station. Place: Čierny Balog and vicinity Contact: https://www.chz.sk/sk/cestovny-poriadok/

May 2020 Červený Kameň Arts and Crafts Market (Červenokamenské remeselné trhy) An event for anyone who admires traditional and modern crafts. Place: Červený Kameň (Bibersburg) Castle Contact: www.hradcervenykamen.sk

May 2020 Parade of Locomotives (Rušňoparáda) Rušňoparáda is the largest railway nostalgia and modern rail coach gathering for enthusiasts in the east of Slovakia, regularly held at Slovak Rail’s Rušňovo Depot in Košice. It is organized by Slovak Rail (Železničná spoločnosť Slovensko) and the Košice Children’s Railway as a traditional family event aimed at showcasing unique historical locomotives alongside modern train sets and locomotives that visitors can literally touch. Rušňoparáda includes children’s entertainment and creative workshops, refreshments, music, screenings and other events from morning till evening. Place: Košice Contact: www.rusnoparada.sk

May 2020 Festival of Castle Stories (Festival zámockých príbehov) The Festival of Historical Stories is an event loosely linked to the successful International Festival of Ghosts and Spirits, which culminated in 2018 with its 25th anniversary celebration. The festival is based on the visionary architectural images of Count János Ferenc Pálffy of romantic Bojnice Castle. Departing from the prior theme of ghosts and spirits, the festival emphasizes mainly the beauty of the past, poetic stories, the magic of art and the power that emanates from a castle full of history. Events are only in Slovak. Place: Bojnice Castle Contact: www.bojnicecastle.sk

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May 2020 Europe Day 2020 (Deň Európy 2020) Europe Day is celebrated on the same day as the official date when the European Union was established. No official events are scheduled this year, but instead there will be a full day of a pleasant atmosphere to enjoy and entertainment for all ages together with a program to enhance your knowledge of the European Union. Place: Hlavné námestie (Main Square), Bratislava Contact: www.visitbratislava.com

May 2020 Trnava May Flower (Májový kvet v Trnave) Once a year Trnava’s Trinity Square bursts into bloom, where anyone who loves or admires flowers have the opportunity to be delighted or newly inspired by the colorful carpet of annuals, Alpine garden and woody plants as well as medicinal herbs. Free admission. For an even more breathtaking view, climb the 143 stairs in the City Tower. Place: Trnava Contact: www.regiontirnavia.sk

May 2020 The 16th TRDLOFEST – 2020 (TRDLOFEST 2020 - 16. ročník) Come enjoy a day full of Skalica trdelník, wine and good fun. Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a rich cultural program and visit historical monuments of the town of Skalica free of charge. Place: Skalica Contact: www.trdlofest.sk

May 2020 St. Urban Celebration at Zobor (Svätourbanské zoborské slávnosti) The feast day of St. Urban, the patron saint of winemakers will be celebrated for the tenth time at Zobor in the traditional Nitra wine-growing region. For visitors to Zobor, the celebration includes a market town, wine festival and many accompanying events. Place: Nitra Contact: www.nitra.sk; www.jahodovanitra.sk

May 2020 Festival of Arts, Crafts and Entertainment (Festival kumštu, remesla a zábavy) A presentation of traditional crafts accompanied by a rich cultural program, a visit to the Old Castle and many other surprises Place: Slovak Mining Museum, Banská Štiavnica Contact: www.banskastiavnica.sk

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May 2020 Urban 2020 This year’s 13th annual blessing by St. Urban of the young wine includes a tour of Tokay wine cellars, together with tastings of Tokay wine and other specialties of the region. Place: Malá Tŕňa, Veľká Tŕňa, Viničky Contact: www.tokajregion.sk; www.tokajregnum.sk

May 2020 Rotenstein 2020 Slovakia’s largest festival of history and chivalry, Rotenstein looks extensively back into the past with numerous knights in shining armor riding and showing their skills. The festival features music of the era, swordsmen, drummers, beautiful sorceresses and jugglers, falconers, dog trainers and new performers from surrounding countries. Place: Water Castle, Holíč Contact: www.rotenstein.sk; www.agenturahector.sk

JUNE

June – September 2020 Bratislava Cultural Summer and Castle Festival (Kultúrne leto a Hradné slávnosti Bratislava) The city’s largest festival plans also in 2020 to produce in Bratislava a scene full of multi-genre programs for both residents and visitors coming to the capital of Slovakia during the summer. Place: Bratislava Contact: www.visitbratislava.com; www.bkis.sk

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June 2020 Flavors of Nitra Region and Strawberry Nitra Festival (Festival chutí Nitrianskeho kraja a Jahodová Nitra) The fifth year of this attractive gastronomic event celebrating the flavors of the Nitra region includes Strawberry Nitra featuring delicious dishes made with strawberries grown there. Place: Nitra Contact: www.nitra.eu

June 2020 Celebration of Roses (Slávnosť ruží) Each year the Dolná Krupá Museum of Music organizes an event for flower enthusiasts in honor of Maria Henrietta Chotek, the Countess of Roses. She was a prominent grower and breeder that owned what was once Central Europe's largest rose garden and dedicated her life to cultivating them. Besides listening to the concerts in the beautiful fresco hall, which is a featured event in the rose exhibition, you can also see a newly-established rose cultivar named after Countess Chotek. Enjoy the beauty of the extensive English garden riding in a historic carriage and savor the quality wines, sweet mead and tasty gingerbread. The Dolná Krupá Mansion is open to the public with exhibits within the mansion including the Ludwig van Beethoven Memorial Room. It is well known that Beethoven frequently travelled to Dolná Krupá and enjoyed it as a place to relax. Place: Dolná Krupá Contact: www.regiontirnavia.sk

17-21 June 2020 The 61st Annual Myjava International Folklore Festival (Medzinárodný folklórny festival Myjava - 61. ročník) Place: Myjava Contact: www.myjava.sk

19-27 June 2020 Košice Art Film Fest (Art Film Fest Košice) Slovakia’s most prestigious film festival has brought excitement to fans of quality films since 1993. Every year the best of world cinematography is screened at the festival. In 2016, the torch was passed from Trenčianske Teplice to Košice, which has hosted the festival and showed the films since that year. Place: Košice Contact: www.artfilmfest.sk

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26-28 June 2020 The 18th Annual Bratislava Coronation Days 2020 (Korunovačné slávnosti Bratislava 2020 - 18. ročník) Bratislava Coronation Days is a cultural event that is one of the largest in Slovakia. It commemorates the 18 kings and queens that were crowned in elaborate ceremonies at Pressburg, as Bratislava was called in those days. The event traditionally takes place during the final weekend of June to celebrate Maria Theresa accession to the throne on 25 June 1741. The 17th edition also features a reenactment of the coronation of Caroline Augusta of Bavaria, the fourth wife of Francis I, Emperor of Austria, which took place on 25.9.1825. Place: Old Town, Bratislava Contact: www.korunovacie.sk

June 2020 Open Parks and Gardens Weekend (Víkend otvorených parkov a záhrad) The 12th year of this cultural and educational event seeks unconventionally and in an attractive way to present gardens and landscapes shaped by people actively involved in restoring them and protecting their values. The event is part of an international initiative dedicated in particular to historical parks and gardens, with many countries all over Europe participating. “Transferring Knowledge” is going to be this year’s theme. Place: Slovakia Contact: www.vopz.sk

June 2020 The 29th Annual Opening of the Piešťany Summer Spa Season (Otvorenie letnej kúpeľnej sezóny v Piešťanoch - 29. ročník) A celebration with a full schedule of cultural events, held since 1992 to officially launch the summer spa season in Piešťany. It takes place regularly every year during the first weekend in June. Place: Piešťany Contact: www.pic-piestany.sk

June 2020 Košice Gourmet Fest (Košice Gurmán Fest) Slovakia’s most popular gourmet festival returns to Košice! For the tenth year, the Košice Gourmet Fest is again bringing excellent food prepared by the leading chefs and best restaurants in Eastern Slovakia along with amazing music and pleasant surroundings. Over three weekends, dozens of stalls full of the finest dishes you can find in Slovakia descend upon the city park near the railway station. Place: Košice Contact: www.visitkosice.org

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June 2020 Ceramics Markets (Keramické trhy) The 17th annual ceramics championship covers different styles produced across Slovakia and abroad, with these ceramic products also for sale. Since 2004, the event has taken place at the second weekend in June, around the anniversary of when Pezinok was granted royal privileges in 1647. It includes an exhibition of ceramics at the Small Carpathian Museum, a ceramics completion with pottery spun on wheels and craft workshops. Place: City center, Pezinok Contact: www.pezinok.sk; www.muzeumpezinok.sk

June 2020 Lumen Festival 2020 (Festival Lumen 2020) Today the largest gospel music festival in Central Europe, it was first organized in 1992 and regularly takes place at Trinity Square in early June, right in the center of Trnava. Place: Trnava Contact: www.festivallumen.sk

June 2020 The 44th Annual Zamagurie Folklore Festival (Zamagurské folklórne slávnosti - 44. ročník) This exhibition of folk singing, dancing and traditional culture is more than the spectacle of folklore traditions from the Zamagurie region, it is also an event that can be enjoyed on the grounds of the Smerdžonka Spa in Červený Kláštor, surrounded by the naturally gorgeous scenery of the Pieniny mountain range. Many skilled craftsmen from the region and the nearby vicinity will also display their art and products in a traditional market. Place: Smerdžonka Spa, Červený Kláštor Contact: www.kupelecks.sk

June 2020 The 66th Celebration of Rusyn-Ukrainian Culture in Slovakia (66. Slávnosti kultúry Rusínov-Ukrajincov Slovenska) This event celebrating the Rusyn-Ukrainian culture in Slovakia is the country’s oldest folklore festival. Ever since it was established in 1956, it has been held each year in the middle of June at the Svidník amphitheater and adjacent areas. Place: Svidník Contact: www.rusini-ukrajinci.sk

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June 2020 Abova Folklore Celebration (Abovské folklórne slávnosti) The Abova Cultural Center invites everyone who enjoys folk dancing, singing and music, folk crafts and traditional cuisine to the 51st annual Abova Folklore Celebration at the Rozhanovce Amphitheater. A full program of cultural and accompanying events is scheduled, which starts with creative workshops for children in Rozhanovce. Place: Rozhanovce Contact: www.kulturaabova.sk

June 2020 Summer tourist season opens at Zemplínska šírava (Otvorenie letnej turistickej sezóny na Zemplínskej šírave) Zemplínska šírava’s location in the predominately lowland region of southeastern Slovakia means a warm climate that during the summer months is especially ideal for relaxing. It provides many alternatives to traditional summer holidays with swimming, sunbathing and water sports. The community of Kaluža is the main organizer and has scheduled a number of events in cooperation with the Zemplín Region Tourism Board, including in addition to the ceremonial opening of the summer tourist season the chance to board a boat cruising Zemplínska šírava and a wide range of cultural performances and other accompanying activities. Place: Hôrka, Zemplínska šírava Contact: www.vinne.sk

June 2020 Bratislava Gourmet Festival (Gurmán Fest Bratislava) Out in the open, let yourself be fascinated by what the best chefs, sommeliers and producers of foods and beverages can offer. Taste both local and exotic specialties from the most remarkable restaurants straight out of the Gourmet in Slovakia guidebook. You can enjoy an accompanying program full of many opportunities such as wine tastings, demonstrations by chefs, food workshops and a number of competitions. Place: Andrej Hlinka Park, Bratislava - Ružinov Contact: www.gurmanfestbratislava.sk

June – August 2020 The 16th Viva Musica! (Viva Musica! - 16. ročník) Viva Musica is a summer festival everyone that enjoys good art should experience. It offers the best of classical, jazz and world music appealing to mass audiences and it all takes place in the Old Town out in the open during the summer, usually with no admission charged. There are several evenings full of music, performed by top artists from Slovakia and around the world. Place: Old Town, Bratislava Contact: www.viviamusica.sk

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June 2020 Horehronie Days of Singing and Dancing (Horehronské dni spevu a tanca) The 55th edition of this international folklore festival is a three-day event presenting local groups and ensembles preserving the folklore heritage of people living along the Hron along with guests from throughout Slovakia. Place: Heľpa Contact: www.sosbb.sk; www.helpa.sk

June 2020 NESTVILLE OPEN FEST A festival full of entertainment, music and tastings of Slovakia’s first whiskey. Place: Nestville Park, Hniezdne Contact: www.nestvillepark.sk

June 2020 Summer spa season opens (Otvorenie letnej kúpeľnej sezóny) Free guided tours of the Vyšné Ružbachy spa resort and an invitation to attend the Sculpture Symposium. Place: Vyšné Ružbachy Spa Contact: www.ruzbachy.sk

June 2020 Festival of Forgotten Crafts (Festival zabudnutých remesiel) Discover the magic of long-forgotten crafts accompanied by demonstrations of fencing, theater, archery, dance and musical performances for both children and adults. Place: Červený Kameň (Bibersburg) Castle Contact: www.hradcervenykamen.sk

June 2020 Cassovia Folkfest 2020 A major international folklore festival that follows in the footsteps of the traditional folklore festivals typical of Košice, Cassovia Folkfest presents traditional Eastern Slovakian, Slovakian and European cultures with their customs and traditions. Place: Košice Contact: www.folkfest.sk

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June - July 2020 Hevhetia This summer music festival provides a live platform for songs produced by the Hevhetia music publishing company, whose new vision is constantly expanding the views expressed by artists and in genres. The festival takes place in different Slovak cities and in not so typical locations such as in churches or even directly on the street, with the events running in parallel with each other. Place: Košice Contact: http://www.hevhetia.com/Hevhetia/

JULY

June - August 2020 The 16th Viva Musica! (Viva Musica! - 16. ročník) Viva Musica is a summer festival everyone that enjoys good art should experience. It offers the best of classical, jazz and world music appealing to mass audiences and it all takes place in the Old Town out in the open during the summer, usually with no admission charged. There are several evenings full of music, performed by top artists from Slovakia and around the world. Place: Old Town, Bratislava Contact: www.vivamusica.sk

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2-5 July 2020 The 66th Východná Folklore Festival (Folklórny festival Východná - 66. ročník) Slovakia’s largest folklore festival is a top destination for the best local and international folk ensembles and traditional folk culture. Place: Amphitheater, Východná Contact: www.festivalvychodna.sk; www.nocka.sk

4 July – 15 August 2020 (Concerts: 4, 11, 18 and 25 July and 1, 8 and 15 August) The 24th European Organ Festival - Kremnica Castle Organ (Európsky organový festival Kremnický hradný organ - 24. ročník) This festival, now in its 24th year, is a display of the best artistic talent. Every year the organizers invite artists, with no limits to the regions from where they come, to present the play the best organ compositions. It is held at the Church of St. Catherine on the grounds of the Kremnica City Castle. This church has a Rieger-Kloss concert organ that was installed in 1992 and is one of the most modern instruments found in Slovakia. The excellent acoustics in this Gothic castle church is a critical and hardly neglected element in the festival. The sanctuary and organ create a unique combination that exists nowhere else in Slovakia. All concerts take place on Saturday. Place: Kremnica Contact: www.kremnickyhradnyorgan.sk

4 July 2020 Štrba Folklore Celebration (Štrbské folklórne slávnosti) Set beneath the Tatra Mountains, Štrba invites visitors to enjoy this wonderful event filled with performances of music, dancing and singing by both local and international folklore ensembles. This festival also includes presentations of traditional arts and crafts along with opportunities to taste different foods and drinks. Place: Štrba Contact: www.strba.sk

9-11 July 2020 Pohoda Festival Pohoda, held each year in Trenčín, is Slovakia’s largest open air music festival and one of the largest in Central Europe. The acts scheduled to appear on several stages cover a number of specialized music genres, so fans of world music, rock, punk, pop, dance, hip-hop, techno and many other styles will find something to enjoy. Even visitors who would rather watch something more low key can find something they enjoy in the literature talks, stage plays and folk music also happening. Place: Trenčín Airport, Trenčín Contact: www.pohodafestival.sk

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10-12 July 2020 The 30th European Folk Craft Festival (EĽRO) (Festival Európske ľudové remeslo - EĽRO - 30. ročník) The largest and first festival of its kind in Europe, this year’s edition will focus on the brewery guild. During the second week of July, Kežmarok turns into a craft fair for three days. The main event is preceded by a historical parade through the town and a ceremonial opening by the market reeve and the town fathers. Swordsmen then seek to storm the walls and gate that today adorn the main square and is the entryway into the fair. Over seventy medieval style stands for craftsmen to sell their wares, along with the castle, courtyard and the architecture of the burgher houses at the castle and lining the main square, create a fantastic environment and unusual atmosphere. Place: Kežmarok Contact: www.elro.kezmarok.sk

29 July – 2 August 2020 58th Annual Jánošík Days 2020 (Jánošíkove dni 2020 - 58. ročník) International folklore festival. Place: Terchová Contact: www.janosikovedni.sk; www.terchova.sk

July 2020 Levoča Pilgrimage 2020 (Levočská púť 2020) This is a traditional procession to Mariánska Hora, one of Slovakia’s most important Marian pilgrimage sites and an example of the common confession of faith among members of the Eastern and Western rites. Mariánska Hora in Levoča has belonged to the European Association of Marian Pilgrimage Centers since 2005 and is the oldest pilgrimage site in Eastern Slovakia. Place: Levoča - Mariánska Hora – Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Contact: www.levoca.sk

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July – August 2020 Summer Shakespeare Celebrations 2020 (Letné shakespearovské slávnosti 2020) The Summer Shakespeare Celebrations are a series of theatrical productions that feature the works of the world's best-known dramatist performed in the open air with Bratislava Castle as the backdrop. The summer celebrations of Shakespeare's plays are part of the Castle Celebrations organized as part of the Bratislava Summer of Culture. Place: Bratislava Castle Contact: www.wshakespeare.sk

July 2020 Nitra, Dear Nitra (Nitra, milá Nitra) A celebration dedicated to the life and times of Pribina and Sts. Cyril and Methodius, important figures in both the history of Nitra and the present-day city. Place: Nitra Contact: http://www.nitra.sk

July 2020 Devín Currant Wine Event (Ríbezľový Devín) This is the fifth annual culinary event to be held in the attractive historical city district of Bratislava – Devín, promoting the tradition of growing currants and producing high-quality currant wine in Devín. In addition to selling and tasting red and black currant wines, the fruit itself along with jams, syrups, cakes and other products including burčiak (Federweisser) made from currants. This event is a part of 2020 Cultural Summer and Bratislava Castle celebrations. Place: Bratislava - Devín Contact: www.devin.sk; www.folklorfest.sk

July 2020 Štiavnica Live Chess (Štiavnický živý šach) Chess will no longer seem boring to watch when 32 giant chess pieces converge as two top grandmasters move them across a giant chessboard. Place: Banská Štiavnica Contact: www.banskastiavnica.travel

July 2020 Poľana Folklore Celebration (Folklórne slávnosti pod Poľanou) The 55th festival of traditional folk culture in the shadow of the Poľana Mountains in Detva. Place: Detva Contact: www.fspdetva.sk

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July 2020 65th Spišské Trhy - Zipser Market (Spišské trhy - 65. ročník) The Spiš Market recreates the unmistakable atmosphere of the traditional fairs of the region. The stalls offer a broad selection of good food and drink, while the square in the center of Spišská Nová Ves is the venue for an extensive cultural program. Place: Spišská Nová Ves Contact: www.spisskanovaves.eu

July 2020 Beckov Ceremonies (Beckovské slávnosti) The streets in the village of Beckov will be flooded with almost 100 different stalls to showcase the inimitable art of the best master craftsmen of folk crafts. The magical scent of medieval days returns with the arrival of knights astride on their horses. Memorable period demonstrations of medieval combat and tournaments are a traditional element of the Beckov Ceremonies along with the popular World Pitchfork Throwing Championships. Place: Castle grounds, Beckov Contact: www.doubleagency.sk; www.hrad-beckov.sk

July 2020 Castle Celebrations (Hradné slávnosti) Reenactment of the Royal Dowry, a historic event in 1683 when Queen Hedwig arrived at Ľubovňa Castle. Place: Stará Ľubovňa Castle and Open Air Museum, Stará Ľubovňa Contact: www.hradlubovna.sk

July – August 2020 Trnava Organ Days – the 25th Annual International Organ Music Festival (Trnavské organové dni - Medzinárodný festival organovej hudby - 25. ročník) The festival takes place in the enchanting St. Nicholas Basilica in Trnava, where the world's top organists will play historical organs including a 1783 organ that is the oldest preserved in Trnava. Place: Trnava Contact: www.regiontirnavia.sk

July – August 2020 Summer in the Park (Leto v parku) This unusual music festival offers many different genres and a universal cultural program on the grounds of the Kasárne-Kulturpark for both city residents and visitors to the city of all ages. There will be something for everyone, even the youngest, who enjoy high quality music, wonderful theater performances and creative workshops. Place: Košice Contact: www.k13.sk

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July – August 2020 Days of Master Paul 2020 (Dni Majstra Pavla 2020) This international celebration of culture takes place in the former royal town of Levoča and demonstrates the important role played by culture in Slovakia. Evidence of this can be seen in the performances of street artists, stage actors, musicians and dancers. This event attracts visitors from different corners of the world looking for unique experiences. Levoča is ready to meet the needs of visitors to the city at all sites of the celebration and to offer an attractive cultural program. Place: Levoča Contact: www.msks.levoca.sk

AUGUST

June – September 2020 Bratislava Cultural Summer and Castle Festival (Kultúrne leto a Hradné slávnosti Bratislava) The city’s largest festival plans also in 2020 to produce in Bratislava a scene full of multi-genre programs for both residents and visitors coming to the capital of Slovakia during the summer Place: Bratislava Contact: www.visitbratislava.com; www.bkis.sk

July - August 2020 2020 Summer Shakespeare Celebrations (Letné shakespearovské slávnosti 2020) The Summer Shakespeare Celebrations are a series of theatrical productions that feature the works of the world's best-known dramatist performed in the open air with Bratislava Castle as the backdrop. The summer celebrations of Shakespeare's plays are part of the Castle Celebrations organized as part of the Bratislava Summer of Culture. Place: Bratislava Castle Contact: www.wshakespeare.sk

29 July – 2 August 2020 58th Annual Jánošík Days (Jánošíkove dni 2020 - 58. ročník) International folklore festival. Place: Terchová Contact: www.janosikovedni.sk; www.terchova.sk

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4 July – 15 August 2020 (Concerts: 4, 11, 18 and 25 July and 1, 8 and 15 August) The 24th European Organ Festival - Kremnica Castle Organ (Európsky organový festival Kremnický hradný organ - 24. ročník) This international festival showcases the best artistic talent playing the finest organ compositions at the Church of St. Catherine on the grounds of the Kremnica City Castle. This church has a Rieger- Kloss concert organ that was installed in 1992 and is one of the most modern instruments found in Slovakia. The excellent acoustics in this Gothic castle church is a critical and hardly neglected element in the festival. The sanctuary and organ create a unique combination that exists nowhere else in Slovakia. All concerts take place on Saturday. Place: Kremnica Contact: www.kremnickyhradnyorgan.sk

July - August 2020 The 25th Annual Trnava Organ Days - International Organ Music Festival (Trnavské organové dni - Medzinárodný festival organovej hudby - 25. ročník)

The festival takes place in the enchanting St. Nicholas Basilica in Trnava, where the world's top organists will play historical organs including a 1783 organ that is the oldest preserved in Trnava. Place: Trnava Contact: www.regiontirnavia.sk

August 2020 ROCKING UNDER THE STONE (ROCK POD KAMEŇOM) Enjoy the 16th annual international rock and heavy metal festival in the splendid atmosphere of the Snina Ponds, an organic recreational facility. Place: Snina Ponds (Sninské rybníky) Contact: www.rockpodkamenom.sk

August 2020 Historical Baroque Day (Historický barokový deň) Dedicated to Antal Grassalkovich, prime minister under Maria Theresa, a native of Ürmény, today’s Mojmírovce, and a prominent supporter of Baroque art in Hungary. Place: Mojmírovce Contact: www.kastielmojmirovce.sk

August 2020 The 45th Annual Pod Roháč Folklore Festival (Podroháčske folklórne slávnosti - 45. ročník) International folklore festival, folk crafts fair and accompanying exhibitions. Place: Zuberec Contact: www.osvetadk.sk; www.zuberec.sk

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August 2020 Main Pilgrimage to Zvir Mountain (Hlavná púť na horu Zvir) During the first Sunday in August, invites pilgrims are invited to the shrine at the magnificent Zvir Mountain for deep, soothing prayer. Place: Litmanová Contact: www.horazvir.sk

August 2020 Zemplín Celebration and Fair (Zemplínske slávnosti a Zemplínsky jarmok) This summer event continues the magical traditions celebrating the summer solstice. In addition to entertainment and a program celebrating the region's cultural heritage and natural beauty, there are tours of the ruins of Vinné Castle and Senderov Monastery. Place: Michalovce Contact: www.michalovce.sk

August 2020 Hont Parade in Hrušov (Hontianska paráda v Hrušove) Festival showcasing the traditional Hont regional culture. Place: Hrušov Contact: www.hrusov.sk

August 2020 The 19th Annual Trnava Gate International Folklore Festival (Trnavská brána - Medzinárodný folklórny festival - 19. ročník) Performances of the best local and international folklore ensembles are scheduled to take place at Trinity Square in Trnava. Place: Trnava Contact: www.trnavskabrana.sk; www.regiontirnavia,sk

August 2020 The 25th Annual Onion Festival (Cibuľové slávnosti - 25. ročník) Madunice is famous for growing onions and its onion traditions and records. The Onion Festival celebrates them with cuisine, sports and music that feature onions. Enjoy both traditional and unusual gourmet delicacies made with onions, creative workshops and an extensive accompanying program as the town seeks to enter the record books. Place: Madunice Contact: www.madunice.sk

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August 2020 The 47th Gemer Folklore Festival (Gemerský folklórny festival - 47. ročník) The Gemer Folklore Festival in Rejdová is one of the largest in the Košice self-governing region, maintaining folk traditions, presenting folk songs and dances, promoting traditional crafts and showcasing both local and international folklore ensembles. Visitors to Slovakia’s biggest folklore event can enjoy a rich and varied program with both choreographed and non-choreographed performances both in town and at the town's amphitheater. Ensembles and folk groups from the Gemer region and host Rejdová perform the best from their repertoires, with each providing their own special touch in the town's courtyards. Place: Rejdová Contact: www.rejdova.sk

August 2020 2020 Kremnica Gags (Kremnické gagy 2020) The 40th edition of this European festival celebrating humor and satire. Place: Kremnica Contact: www.gagy.eu; www.visitkremnica.com

August 2020 Traditional Folk Arts and Crafts (Tradičné ľudové umelecké remeslá) Folk craftspeople join together to present traditional folk crafts from Slovakia and other countries. Place: Červený Kameň (Bibersburg) Castle Contact: www.hradcervenykamen.sk

August 2020 Slovak International Air Fest SIAF 2020 (Medzinárodné letecké dni SIAF 2020) The organizers of National Air Days are continuing their well-established tradition and again preparing an interesting schedule of events with pilots and aircraft from beyond Slovakia taking part. Place: Sliač Airport, Sliač Contact: www.siaf.sk

August 2020 Bean Soup Contest (Fyzulnačka) The 17th edition of the International Bean Soup Contest features teams cooking the soup in 30-50 liter cauldrons. Fyzulnačka contestants are evaluated by a panel of judges to determine the three best bean soups. The general public can also vote for the best-tasting soup. The first contest was organized in 2003 and for six years it took place at the same time as the wine harvest. But since 2009 it has been a separate event held in late August, while no competition was held in 2011. Place: City Hall Square (Radničné námestie), Pezinok Contact: www.pezinok.sk

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August 2020 Lodenica (Shipyard) Festival in Piešťany (Festival Lodenica Piešťany) For 20 years Lodenica has been bringing excellent concerts, fun entertainment and a marvelous festival atmosphere! This family festival for country and folk music fans also features “tramp music” to put everyone in a good mood. Place: Autocamping Lodenica, Piešťany Contact: www.lodenica.sk

August 2020 Bear Days (Medvedie dni) See the greatest concentration of bears at one place in the High Tatras! A successful event full of bearish atmosphere that takes place in the heart of the Tatra Mountains attracts particularly children, and yet enjoyable for adults, too. There are various contests for visitors as well as a stage performance and, of course, an exhibit of bears. For three unforgettable days while attending Bear Days, you can stay at the hotel and other nearby accommodation facilities and enjoy the local specialties; all services offered in the High Tatras are recognized for their high quality. Place: Hrebienok, High Tatras Contact: www.regiontatry.sk

August 2020 The 30th Annual Centre for Folk Art Production Craftsmen Days (Dni majstrov ÚĽUV - 30. ročník) Bratislava’s biggest festival of folk culture and crafts returns to the Old Town on the last august weekend. The traditional crafts and homemade products that are the main attraction of this Center for Folk Art Production event will be presented live by more than 100 craftspeople from different regions of Slovakia. Place: Old Town, Bratislava Contact: www.uluv.sk

August 2020 Medieval Prešovačka Wine Festival (Stredoveká prešovačka) The wine season opens in the spirit of this medieval tradition. Place: Trnava Contact: www.regiontirnavia.sk

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SEPTEMBER

September 2020 Goose Guild Open House (Deň otvorených dverí Cechu husacinárov) Slovenský Grob boasts this unusual, more than 100-year old roast goose feast, where the tradition is kept by the Slovenský Grob Goose Farmers Guild, a civic association in the village. Place: Slovenský Grob Contact: www.cechhusacinarov.sk; www.kralovstvohusaciny.sk

5 September 2020 Wine Harvest Day 2020 (Deň vo vinohradoch 2020) Taste wine and grapes right in the vineyard. Place: Little Carpathians Wine Region Contact: www.mvc.sk

September 2020 Dobrá Chuť Wine Festival (Festival dobrej chuti a vína) The 7th edition of this gourmet event featuring unusual and extraordinary gastronomic specialties. Place: Prešov Contact: www.festivaldobrejchuti.sk

September 2020 Traditional Trnava Fair (Tradičný Trnavský jarmok) The spirit of the fair is the keeping of past traditions and values and to remember the successful markets held in the past in the oldest free royal city in Slovakia. Place: Trnava Contact: www.tic.trnava.sk; www.regiontirnavia.sk

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September 2020 The Middle Ages under the Walls (Stredovek pod hradbami) A festival celebrating medieval times, this unique event accompanying the traditional Trnava Fair comes to life every year at the city walls. For a few days you can taste, feel and experience medieval times for yourself. Place: Trnava Contact: www.agenturahector.sk; www.regiontirnavia.sk

September 2020 Slovak Food Festival The Slovak Food Festival is a three-day family event with excellent catering and delicacies to sample. First organized in 2010, there were 15,000 visitors to the festival that year. The biggest picnic in Bratislava is held every year at Bratislava Castle, where visitors have the opportunity to try a variety of meals, watch live food shows, compete in contests and learn about living a healthy lifestyle. Place: Bratislava Castle Contact: www.slovakfoodfestival.sk

September 2020 The 363rd Radvanský Jarmok Bazaar (Radvanský jarmok - 363. ročník) This rather unusual fair is mentioned among Slovakia’s entries in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists. The Radvanský Jarmok in Banská Bystrica is also called the “fairest of all fairs”. This fair where folk crafts reign is also famous in Slovakia because its most famous brigand, Juraj Jánošík, used to visit it. The history of the Radvanský Jarmok goes back to the 17th century, when the village of Radvaň, then independent, acquired the right to hold a fair on the day of the Virgin Mary’s birth in 1655. Place: Banská Bystrica Contact: www.banskabystrica.sk

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September 2020 Rusovce Roman Games (Rímske hry v Rusovciach) Are you interested in the magnificence of ancient Rome, but you don’t happen to have a time machine to see it all in person? Well there’s nothing easier to do. Just come in September to ancient Gerulata and watch history unfold before your eyes… Place: Rusovce Contact: www.muzeum.bratislava.sk

September 2020 The 16th Annual Podzoborské Vinobranie (Zobor Vintage Festival) - Podzoborské vinobranie - 16. ročník The Nitra Summer of Culture culminates in the City Park below the Zobor Hills. Place: Nitra Contact: www.nitra.eu

September 2020 Cinematik International Film Festival (Medzinárodný filmový festival Cinematik) Cinematik Piešťany seeks to fill the gaps left by other film festivals held in Slovakia and to bring an event whose long-term strategy is clearly oriented toward a younger film audience, emphasizing the development of “film literacy”. It has become a festival attracting a wide audience, especially with its atmosphere without the celebrities and red carpets associated with other such events. Place: Piešťany Contact: www.cinematik.sk

September 2020 Gajdovačka Bagpipe Festival (Gajdovačka) The 21st International Bagpiper Festival and the 20th International Young Bagpiper Competition. Place: Oravská Polhor Contact: www.oravskapolhora.sk

September 2020 Salamander Days (Salamandrové dni) This festival celebrates miners, geologists, metallurgists and oil rig roughnecks as well as Banská Štiavnica's own rich history and tradition. Good fun and entertainment is what Salamander Days promises. The traditions were started by students of the city's famous Mining Academy. Each year visitors to the town can look forward to concerts, fairs, many accompanying events and especially the traditional Salamander parade. Place: Banská Štiavnica Contact: www.banskastiavnica.travel; www.kultura.banskastiavnica.sk

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September 2020 Bratislava Coronation Days (Bratislavské korunovačné dni) Both city residents and visitors to Bratislava can enjoy the merry atmosphere of a royal coronation with a cultural events, theater performances, church music concerts and worship services, period music and games played in the era when kings and queens were crowned. Bratislava Coronation Days is sponsored by the local government in cooperation with the Bratislava Culture and Information Center, the Bratislava Tourist Board, Bratislava City Gallery, Bratislava City Museum, Bratislava City Library, Bratislava City Archives. Together they have prepared a variety of coronation events covering different genres for a diverse audience. Place: Old Town, Bratislava Contact: www.visitbratislava.com

September 2020 Traditional vintage festivals in the Little Carpathian Wine Region (Vinobranie - tradičné oberačkové slávnosti v malokarpatskej vínnej oblasti):  Rača Vintage Festival (Račianske vinobranie)  Pezinok Vintage Festival (Vinobranie Pezinok)  Modra Vintage Festival (Modranské vinobranie) Place: Modra, Rača, Pezinok Contact: www.mvc.sk; www.pezinok.sk

September 2020 Levoča Late Summer Festival - International Classical Music Festival (Levočské babie leto – medzinárodný festival vážnej hudby) The 13th year of this music festival features a wide range of music performed by leading musicians from all over Europe. Place: City Theater, Levoča Contact: www.levoca.sk

September 2020 Skalica Days (Skalické dni) This popular traditional event features an historical fair full of accompanying events. The three-day multiple genre festival showcases traditions while offering music and entertainment for all ages. Place: Skalica Contact: www.tikskalica.sk

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September 2020 Tokay Cellar Open House (Deň otvorených tokajských pivníc) Tokaj Regnum Civil Association invites you to the 15th annual Tokay wine cellar tours and wine tastings at its wineries in Veľká Tŕňa, Malá Tŕňa and Viničky. Each wine-maker prepares four samples of Tokay wine for tasting, offering its own Tokay specialties. The cellars are open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. Place: Malá Tŕňa, Veľká Tŕňa and Viničky Contact: www.tokajregion.sk; www.tokajregnum.sk

September 2020 Tokay Vintage Festival (Tokajské vinobranie) The village of Čerhov and the South Zemplín Cultural Center in Trebišov cordially invite you to the 18th annual TOKAY VINTAGE FESTIVAL, with wine tasting at farmhouse cellar and a rich cultural program. Place: Čerhov Contact: www.cerhov.sk

September 2020 St. Michael’s Fair (Michalský jarmok) The traditional St. Michael’s Fair joins the tradition of market fairs in Hlohovec, folklore, good food and entertainment in the spirit of the 653rd anniversary of the granting of city privileges to Hlohovec, including the privilege to hold markets and to have a city government. Place: Hlohovec Contact: www.hlohovec.sk; www.mskchc.sk

September 2020 Nitra Theater Festival (Divadelná Nitra) The Nitra International Theater Festival is the largest in Slovakia and one of the best known showcases of Slovakia’s culture in the world. It is also a recognized event throughout Europe. Each year since 1992 it has taken place in Nitra at the end of September. Place: Nitra Contact: www.nitrafest.sk

September 2020 Nitra Wine Festival of Flavors and Experiences (Nitriansky vínny festival - Festival chutí a zážitkov) The cellars in Nitra castle will be open for the tenth time to everybody who loves good wine. Everyone will have the opportunity to visit the seven wine cellars located inside Nitra Castle. Don’t miss the music and entertainment accompanying this event. Place: Nitra Contact: www.nvp.sk

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September - October 2020 The 56th Bratislava Music Festival (Bratislavské hudobné slávnosti/ BHS - 56. ročník) The Bratislava Music Festival is Slovakia’s best known and most prestigious international festival, having become a tradition in the city since it was established in 1964. Starting in 1973, it has been only the Slovak representative in the Brussels-based European Festivals Association (EFA). Place: Bratislava Contact: www.bhsfestival.sk; www.filharmonia.sk

September 2020 Turá Lúka Plum Days 2020 (Dni Sliviek Turá Lúka 2020) This traditional event takes place at the Myjava Farmstead (Gazdovský Dvor) in the Turá Lúka neighborhood of the city. This permanent exhibit of a typical late 19th century estate in the Kopanice region presents traditional ways of life and how people in the area around Myjava lived at the time. Plum Days mainly celebrates the plums typical for the region and the different forms they take. The event includes lectures by experts in growing fruit and distilling spirits, film screenings, brandy tastings, traditional plum jam cooking and plum balls, accompanied by other cultural events. Place: Gazdovský Dvor (Farmstead), Myjava - Turá Lúka Contact: www.myjava.sk; www.folklorfest.sk

September 2020 St. Hubert Days (Dni svätého Huberta) The 30th edition of this nationwide hunting festival plus the 22nd European Stag Calling Championship. Place: Svätý Anton Contact: www.msa.sk

September 2020 Bratislava White Night (Biela noc Bratislava) Slovakia’s largest contemporary art festival, White Night transforms the streets of Bratislava for the sixth straight year into a magical walk through the city at night full of experiences and new sensations from this international art project. Place: Bratislava Contact: www.bielanoc.sk

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OCTOBER

10 October 2020 The 13th Bratislava Region Apple Feast 2020 (Jablkové hodovanie v mestách a obciach Bratislavského kraja 2020 - 13. ročník) Apples are the typical fruit grown in Bratislava Region, which covers Bratislava and the districts surrounding it. This region-wide event takes place in 15 communities as they seek to create a unique tourist event covering the entire Bratislava Region and attract everyone that loves apples. The treats made from them range from desserts to jams, jellies, spreads and even dried apples and tasty juices and ciders – all available to savor in the towns, villages and Bratislava city districts. Place: Cities and towns throughout Bratislava Region Contact: www.region-bsk.sk; www.folklorfest.sk

October 2020 Cabbage Days (Dni Zelá) Traditional regional event where cabbages, "zelé" in the Záhorie dialect, take center stage. Place: Stupava Contact: www.msks-stupava.sk

October 2020 Nitra Theater Festival (Divadelná Nitra) The Nitra International Theater Festival is the largest in Slovakia and one of the best known showcases of Slovakia’s culture in the world. It is also a recognized event throughout Europe. Each year since 1992 it has taken place in Nitra at the end of September. Place: Nitra Contact: http://www.nitrafest.sk

October 2020 Battle of Pressburg (Bitka o Bratislavu) This cultural and historical event commemorates the 17th century Battle of Pressburg and will be held for the sixth time at Janko Kráľ Garden Park in Bratislava. The main event is a reenactment of a military clash that took place in the historic Kingdom of Hungary in 1619. Spectators can tour an early 17th century military camp, watch demonstrations of period life, view military regiments of the time and also see a reenactment of a march through the Old City. Place: Janko Kráľ Park, Bratislava Contact: www.bitkaobratislavu.sk

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October 2020 White Night – Nuit Blanche (Biela noc – Nuit Blanche) Biela Noc (White Night) is a prestigious international art project designed to raise awareness among the public about contemporary forms of art and to bring such works to untraditional, unrecognized and yet significant European cities. It first started in Paris in 2002, and was visited in 2013 by over two and a half million people. From its beginnings in Paris, the project has expanded over the years to such places as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Santa Monica, Montreal, Toronto, Rome, Tel Aviv, Gaza, Jerusalem, Madrid, Brussels, Riga, Bucharest, Amsterdam, Brighton, Turin, Naples, St. Petersburg, Košice and Bratislava. Place: Košice Contact: www.bielanoc.sk

October 2020 Bratislava in Motion - International Festival of Contemporary Dance (Bratislava v pohybe - Medzinárodný festival súčasného tanca) The festival highlights the most exciting examples of contemporary dance in Slovakia alongside exceptional productions from neighboring countries. Place: Bratislava Contact: http://www.abp.sk

October 2020 Ružindol Sorceress (Ružindolská bosorka) In medieval Ružindol, near Bratislava, local women were supposedly practicing “witchcraft”, which started a tradition that has lasted ever since of “sorceresses” living in the town. This year’s historical event will be staged in successive scenes. Place: Ružindol Contact: www.regiontirnavia.sk

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October 2020 The 97th Annual Košice Peace Marathon 2020 (Medzinárodný maratón mieru 2020 - 97. ročník) The Košice Peace Marathon is the oldest in Europe and the second oldest in the world (after the Boston Marathon)! The route threads its way through an attractive urban circuit with both the starting and finishing lines at the Košice promenade at the beginning of the main street. It has been a true challenge for all runners since it began in 1924. The event has the longest and most complete history since its inception, with it never having been interrupted. Place: Košice Contact: www.kosicemarathon.com

October 2020 The 473rd Štúrovo Fair of Sts. Simon and Jude (Štúrovský jarmok Šimona-Júdu - 473. ročník) The Štúrovo fair is the largest in the modern history of the Danube Valley. Traders, entertainers and visitors from both the Slovak and Hungarian side of the Danube traditionally come to the fair. Place: Štúrovo Contact: www.sturovo.sk

October 2020 Soup Festival (Polievkový festival) The main objective of the Soup Festival is to present how diverse our city is and showcase everyone who is a part of it. Although the Soup Festival has become a favorite dining experience, the primary intention behind it has been and remains to deepen mutual tolerance, honor and respect for the qualities different nationalities, groups, communities and individuals bring. Place: Košice Contact: http://vymenniky.sk/festival/polievkovy-festival/

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October 2020 Hubertus You are cordially invited to ride a carriage or saddle a horse and come to Topoľčianky for the traditional HUBERTUS festival to close out the riding season for the year. Place: National Stud Farm, Topoľčianky Contact: www.nztopolcianky.sk

October 2020 The 17th Annual Trnava Wine Cellar Day (Deň vínnych pivníc v Trnave - 17. ročník) The famous traditions of Trnava’s wineries and their viticulture come to life every year on a single date, when Wine Cellars Day is celebrated. This is the day when the ancient underground cellars reveal to wine enthusiasts the hidden “city below the city”. Place: Historic wine cellars, Trnava Contact: www.regiontirnavia.sk

October 2020 The 46th Slovenská sporiteľňa Bratislava Jazz Days (BJD) 2020, (Bratislavské Jazzové Dni Slovenská sporiteľňa 2020 / BJD - 46. ročník) The international BJD festival is one of the significant events of its type in Central Europe, with major jazz stars regularly attending. Place: Incheba Expo, Bratislava Contact: http://www.bjd.sk

October 2020 Záhorie Wine Route Open House (Deň otvorených búd na Vínnej ceste Záhorie) Every autumn since 2010, the Záhorie Wine Route has sponsored an event in October to celebrate its wine traditions. Both small and large wineries and winemakers serve wine to guests visiting their cellars and also give tours of the huts and cellars that cover an almost 12-kilometer radius. Place: Skalica and vicinity Contact: www.vcz.sk

October 2020 Hubert Days at Betliar (Hubertove dni v kaštieli Betliar) The traditional event on St. Hubert’s Day was foxhunting. This is the 20th celebration of hunting and the meeting of horse breeders at the manor house park. Visitors can see during the day falconers show their skills, demonstrations of hunting dog breeds, equestrian vaulting, racehorse presentations and show jumping. Place: Manor house grounds, Betliar Contact: www.snm.sk/kastiel-betliar

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October 2020 International Mountain Film Festival (Medzinárodný festival horských filmov) A favorite event which kicked off earlier this year is like every year taking place in Poprad. Experience a stunning tour of films about mountain climbing, exploring caves, rafting along river rapids and life in the mountains. Also scheduled during the event are films of Alpine skiing and other extreme sports. Place: Poprad Contact: www.mfhf.sk

NOVEMBER

20-21 November 2020 The 21st Annual Little Carpathians Wine Route Open House (Deň otvorených pivníc na Malokarpatskej vínnej ceste - 21. ročník) Open house at the wine cellars means more than wine, it is about the wonderful cellars spread about the countryside and the regional specialties often prepared by a clever winemaker alongside the wine. There is also other entertainment in the wine cellars with folk music, country or jazz playing in the background as you enjoy that glass of wine. Over two days there is a blend of the past and present as the doors and gates open to 174 wine cellars in 27 cities and villages within the Little Carpathians. Place: Little Carpathian Wine Region Contact: www.mvc.sk

November 2020 Trenčín Castle Devils (Čerti na Trenčianskom hrade) Evening castle tour where Krampus is your guide. Place: Trenčín Castle Contact: www.muzeumtn.sk

November 2020 2020 Nitra Wine Festival (Nitriansky vínny festival 2020) The 11th edition of the festival features the spirit of traditional Slovakian and Moravian wines tasted in the cellars of Nitra Castle. Place: Nitra Contact: www.nvf.sk

November 2020 Flavors of the Little Carpathians (Chute Malých Karpát) A festival of open wine cellars, local gastronomy and culture. Place: Little Carpathian Wine Region Contact: www.regiontirnavia.sk

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November 2020 Bratislava International Film Festival 2020 (Medzinárodný filmový festival Bratislava 2020) The 22nd edition of this festival brings a wide selection of contemporary film productions accompanied by other exciting events happening in Bratislava and the surrounding area. Place: Bratislava Contact: www.iffbratislava.sk

November 2020 St. Martin’s Days (Svätomartinské dni) St. Martin is Bratislava's most important patron saint, and in his honor the city center is coming alive with fairs, autumn festival celebrations and the debut of young wine. Place: City center, Bratislava Contact: www.bratislava.sk; www.bkis.sk

November - December 2020 Christmas Market and Old Town Christmas Market 2020 (Vianočné trhy 2020 a Staromestské vianočné trhy 2020) In the month before Christmas, the trees at the Main Square and Hviezdoslav Square in the center of Bratislava will be lit up and both squares will be full of stalls selling treats and Christmas gifts. Place: Old Town, Bratislava Contact: www.bkis.sk; www.visitbratislava.com

November 2020 Religious Art Festival (Festival sakrálneho umenia) This festival is unequalled in Slovakia. Since 1990, it has created a space for understanding of others and both social and religious to develop and thrive through the presentation of local and European religious art, expressed in music, singing, fine arts and words. This is an uplifting experience you can experience only in Košice. Place: Košice Contact: www.kosice.sk

November 2020 ARS NOVA CASSOVIAE – Contemporary Art Festival (ARS NOVA CASSOVIAE – Festival súčasného umenia) This exciting festival of contemporary art showcases modern classical music and will certainly an event to appeal to everyone. You will surely enjoy the chamber music, symphony concerts and exhibitions on tap. There is also the option for visitors to the festival to participate in musicological conferences. Come and enjoy this unique atmosphere of Košice, Slovakia's main city of culture. This is an event classical music enthusiasts and anyone else interested in it will certainly enjoy. Place: Košice Contact: www.sfk.sk

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DECEMBER

December 2020 Suchá nad Parnou Gingerbread Olympics (Pernikiáda v Suchej nad Parnou) Suchá nad Parnou has a long tradition of Christmas season gingerbread decorations. This year’s event includes a Christmas workshop. Place: Suchá nad Parnou Contact: http://regiontirnavia.sk/files/podujatia/kalendár/Kalendar-podujati-2019.pdf

December 2020 Christmas Market in Nitra (Vianočné trhy v Nitre) A Christmas town on Svätopluk Square is an annual season tradition in the neighborhood of the city that lies below the Zobor Hills. Place: Nitra Contact: www.nitra.sk

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December 2020 Christmas Charm under the Castle – Christmas Craft Market (Čaro Vianoc pod hradom - vianočné remeselné trhy) Christmas events: welcoming St. Nicholas, Christmas markets, Christmas carols under the tree, a live nativity scene, fairy tales and concerts. Place: Mierové Námestie, Trenčín Contact: http://www.visittrencin.sk

December 2020 Košice Storybook Christmas (Košické rozprávkové Vianoce) Košice Storybook Christmas is an event that has taken place in Košice during the Advent season for several years now. The Main street (Hlavná ulica), Slovakia’s longest pedestrian zone, is transformed into a fabulous landscape full of wooden stands, delicious beverages and food and decked with snowflakes and Christmas trees. Enjoy the Mayor's punch, angelic cabbage soup, mulled wine from all corners of Slovakia, fruit teas, hot chocolate, gingerbread, honey cakes, lángos, potato pancakes, sausages and fried meat, along with, handmade Christmas decorations, a live nativity scene live Bethlehem, many accompanying programs and beautiful decorations for the holiday season. Place: Košice Contact: www.kosice.sk

December 2020 Holíč Castle Christmas Place: Holíč Contact: www.holic.sk

December 2020 – January 2021 St. Nicholas Day and Christmas at the Castle (Svätý Mikuláš a Vianoce na zámku) Romantic Bojnice Castle will be filled this Christmas season with the scent of pine needles and glimmering decorations. There will also be festive guided tours of the castle for both local and international visitors. Place: Bojnice Castle Contact: http://www.bojnicecastle.sk

December 2020 St. Nicholas Day at the Castle (Mikuláš na hrade) Don't miss St. Nicholas’s incredible visit to the castle. Place: Červený Kameň (Bibersburg) Castle Contact: www.hradcervenykamen.sk

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December 2020 Medieval Advent Market (Stredoveké adventné trhy) During the Advent season craftsmen regularly put up medieval period stalls on St. Nicholas Square, Trnava’s oldest market square, and offer handmade products, unusual culinary specialties and old fashioned Christmas hot punch in the intimate atmosphere these medieval markets once provided during Advent and continue today. Place: Trnava Contact: www.regiontirnavia.sk

December 2020 Angelic Cabbage Soup (Anjelská kapustnica) A stalwart feature of Košice Storybook Christmas for several years has been the ”angelic cabbage soup” that is traditionally cooked on the Sunday before Christmas. Why to serve cabbage soup should be very clear. This Christmas soup always brings a feeling of comfort and joy to us all. And why call it angelic? Because having some to warm you up is a nice thing to do. For a token €1 or more, you can buy a bowl of cabbage soup warmed in a 1,000-liter boiler and the money earned from sales will go to charity. This enhances the Christmas season for you and for others, too and turns you into a true angel. Place: Košice Contact: www.visitkosice.org

31 December 2020 New Year’s Eve in the City (Silvester v meste) Košice knows how to say farewell to the old year. Every year, hundreds come to the city's main street to gather under the of viewers meet on the Main Street under the Immaculate plague column to thank each other for the past year and welcome everyone with music, singing, dancing, fun entertainment and fantastic fireworks. Place: Košice Contact: www.kosice.sk

31 December 2020 The 33rd New Year’s Eve Bratislava Bridge Run (Silvestrovský beh cez Bratislavské mosty – 33.ročník) The New Year’s Eve Bratislava Bridge Run is an event for both casual and active runners. It starts at the University of Economics in Bratislava at Dolnozemská Cesta 1 and ends under the Lafranconi Bridge. Place: Bratislava Contact: www.starz.sk

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Prepared by:

Tourism Section Department of Destination Management Ing. Viera Norisová Veronika Krakovská

3rd December 2019