Press Conference of the 60th Jurjevanje in Bela krajina
60th Jubilee Jurjevanje in Bela krajina
Črnomelj, June 6, 2024
Jurjevanje in Bela krajina boasts a long-standing tradition, preserving and promoting the folk heritage of Bela krajina and Slovenia for six decades. This year, the festival will take place from June 19 to 23. On this occasion, the organizers held a press conference featuring Dubravko Čengija, President of the Jurjevanje Organizing Committee, Barbara Papež Lavrič, Director of RIC Bela krajina and main organizer of the event, and Andrej Kavšek, Mayor of the Municipality of Črnomelj. They presented the rich program of this year's festival, its connection with other important cultural events, and the significance of preserving and promoting Slovenian folk heritage.
As Dubravko Čengija, President of the Organizing Committee, stated, the festival in Bela krajina, now celebrating its 60th anniversary, is more than just an event – it is an essential part of the region’s cultural legacy.
“Our goal is to preserve and promote Slovenian folklore while fostering international cooperation. Over the years, we’ve managed to create an event that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds, proudly showcasing our traditions both at home and abroad. This year’s festival will be especially rich and diverse, as we’ve invited numerous guest groups from different countries to enhance our celebration.”
Folklore groups from South Korea, Italy, Greece, Panama, and Croatia will participate this year, further emphasizing the festival’s international dimension. Jurjevanje also aligns with World Music Day (celebrated globally on June 21) and FEST MEST, organized under the Association of Historic Towns of Slovenia, providing an even broader platform for cultural exchange and connection.
Over the course of the five-day festival, around 1,300 performers will appear across ten venues, including about 500 adult folk dancers. The festival will host 11 adult folklore groups from Bela krajina and one from Kranj. As part of the Pastirče mlado event, 15 children's folklore groups—around 350 young performers—will take the main stage. In addition to the main folklore program, the festival will feature around 40 accompanying events, including seven exhibitions at six different locations.
When selecting artists for the evening musical program, special attention was given to diversity in Slovenian music. Visitors will enjoy a wide range of performances—from the acclaimed opera trio Trio Vivere to legendary Slovenian musician Vlado Kreslin, said Čengija.
This year’s 60th Jurjevanje in Črnomelj will conclude on Sunday evening with a Statehood Day celebration, featuring a keynote address by Dr. Asta Vrečko, adding to the festival's festive spirit.
Barbara Papež Lavrič, Director of the Development Information Center of Bela krajina, emphasized that the festival program was designed to offer something for everyone:
“In addition to traditional dance and music performances, we have prepared workshops, exhibitions, and many accompanying events that will give visitors a closer look at our cultural heritage. We also cooperate with other major events, such as World Music Day and FEST MEST, which further highlights our commitment to expanding cultural exchange. Jurjevanje is not only a celebration of folklore—it is a celebration of friendship, creativity, and community.”
Andrej Kavšek, Mayor of Črnomelj and the festival’s main patron, stressed the importance of the festival to the municipality and its people:
“For 60 years, this festival has been at the heart of our cultural life, bringing together residents and visitors from near and far. We are proud to host such a meaningful event that not only preserves our heritage but also promotes tourism and strengthens the local economy. Jurjevanje is more than just a festival—it is part of our identity and the spirit of community that unites us all.”
The organizers gave special thanks to all the sponsors who have supported Jurjevanje in Bela krajina for many years:
“Thanks to your ongoing support and commitment, we are able to organize the festival on such a large scale every year and preserve our valuable cultural heritage. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributes to the tradition of Jurjevanje in Bela krajina,”
highlighted the President of the Organizing Committee.
