Each summer, the streets and squares of Maribor come alive with the vibrant pulse of the Lent Festival, which is not only Slovenia's largest open-air summer festival, but also one of the oldest events of its kind in Europe. For over 30 years, the festival has offered a rich and diverse cultural programme, bringing together artists from around the world and providing unforgettable experiences for local and international visitors alike.
Where all roads meet the Drava River
First held in 1993, the festival was born out of a desire to revitalise the Maribor's historic city centre through art and culture. The banks of the Drava River were once a bustling harbour for rafts and boats, and the river itself was as an important transport route connecting various parts of Europe. The festival's name – as well as that of the city district where it takes place – stems from the old German word for harbour. For many years, the floating stage by the Water Tower stood as the festival's iconic symbol. Over the decades, the festival has grown in scope to become an internationally recognised cultural event.
A vibrant cultural experience
The Lent Festival traditionally begins at the end of June, bringing the banks of the Drava River and numerous other locations across Maribor's city centre to life for nine days.
With its diverse programme, the festival appeals to all generations and tastes, as evidenced by its impressive record of attracting over 12 million visitors to date.
Together with the Art Kamp Festival, Lent hosts an average of 700 events across more than 30 venues each year. Around 3,800 performers from 31 countries — including some more distant ones — take part annually. Over the years, the festival has proudly welcomed music legends such as B.B. King, James Brown, Ray Charles, Bob Geldof, David Byrne, Solomon Burke, Manu Chao and Jimmy Cliff.
-
The group Perpetuum Jazzile delivered a stunning vocal performance. Photo: M. Pigac/pigac.si
-
A very special orchestra joined Magnifico on the Main Stage. Photo: M. Pigac/pigac.si
-
The band Alo!Stari took the audience back to the 1990s with their powerful rhythms. Photo: M. Vanovšek/pigac.si
-
The visitors enjoyed the concert spectacle of the string orchestra and the band Pink Floyd History. Photo: M. Pigac/pigac.si
-
The Maribor promenade, as day turns into evening and evening into night. Photo: Blaž Črnič
More than just a festival
As well as world-class concerts spanning a wide range of genres, the Lent Festival features dance, theatre, circus performances, creative workshops and many other events.
It also brings together several of Maribor's other festivals.
For example, Folkart, Slovenia's largest folklore festival, blends tradition and creativity by welcoming folk dance groups from around the world to Maribor. The city is also home to Ana Desetnica, a street theatre festival, which originated right here on the banks of the Drava. Jazz, funk and world music enthusiasts can enjoy a diverse programme at JazzLent, while Art Kamp, a family-friendly event, transforms the green spaces of Maribor City Park with creative workshops and engaging activities. StandUpLent delivers laughter and good vibes, while the StopTrik festival opens the door to the enchanting world of animated film.
The Lent Festival is more than just a series of events — it is the heartbeat of the city, a celebration of art, culture and socialising.
-
The guests from India presented their culture during the grand parade. Photo: B. Kolarič/pigac.si
-
"The Beaver's Secret," interactive performance for young children. Photo: B. Kolarič/pigac.si
-
Maribor City Park is full of interesting activities. Photo: Dejan Bulut
-
Creative workshops for children and families. Photo: Dejan Bulut
Upcoming festival dates:
Mark your calendar for the next Lent Festival editions: 20–28 June 2025, 26 June–4 July 2026 and 25 June–3 July 2027. Visit the official festival website for the latest programme updates.
Date: 24. June 2025
Time to read: 3 min
