At this important milestone, Notranjska Park, together with the Cerknica Carnival Association and other active associations, institutes and other local stakeholders (Neverland Events Organization, Cerknica Beekeeping Association, Cerknica Angling Club, Jože Udovič Cerknica Library, Guardians of Amphibians, Lake Cerknica, Dinaricum, Cerknica Multigenerational Center, Notranjska House Institute, Public Fund of the Republic of Slovenia for Cultural Activities, Cerknica Regional Office), prepared a very special gift for the community – The town of Fairy Tales.
The Town of Fairy Tales is a series of twelve stories, which in a fun and educational way bring to life Cerknica's rich carnival heritage. Each story introduces one of the carnival characters or customs and reveals how they contributed to the uniqueness of our very special corner of the world.
By the end of 2024 we had listened to six stories: "In the Beginning There Was a Funeral", "Escape from the Enchanted Room", "Meet the Beehive", "The Fisherman and His Stories", "The Tale of the Origin of Lake Cerknica" and "Dragons and Dragonets".
After the New Year, we continued with the story "Let's Help the Frogs". Biologist from Notranjska Park, Rudi Kraševec, revealed to us why frogs are useful and how the amphibian rescue operation around Lake Cerknica works. All those who would like to join the volunteers and help preserve the frog army for future carnivals are invited to join the Guardians of Amphibians, Lake Cerknica "Cuprnške frogs" . Thanks to Mr. Kraševec and the volunteers for their efforts in protecting nature.
Photo: NRP archive
This was followed by the story "A Little About the Hedgehog." Even the Butalci knew that hedgehogs were important, and they liked to feed them. At the Visitor Center Lake Cerknica , we listened to a lecture by biologist Rudi Kraševec and learned why it is important to know about this mysterious neighbor and how we can help him.Thanks to Mr. Kraševec and the association Dinaricum for an excellent presentation.
Photo: Tine Šubic
We also ensured sustainable carnival celebrations by organizing a carnival costume exchange for children. Alongside the exchange, a creative workshop led by artist Bor Šparemblek was also held. At the workshop, children made carnival props that will decorate the big carnival parade – Pustoletje. Thanks to Cerknica Multigenerational Center and Mr. Šparemblek for a creative Saturday morning.
Photo: Tine Šubic
We also combined the spirit of carnival with culture and organized an event to celebrate the cultural holiday. We listened to excerpts from Valvasor's The Glory of the Duchy of Carniola, stories by Fran Milčinski, and enjoyed music and conversation with Miro Jenčko, founder of the Cerknica Carnival Society. Thanks to the Cerknica Carnival Society and the Cerknica Cultural Centre for an excellent cultural introduction to the celebration.
Photo: Tine Šubic
Carnival wouldn't be Carnival without delicious donuts. At Notranjska hiša, Ester Kranjec, recipient of the gold award for baking donuts in Ptuj, revealed her secrets for perfect donuts. Thanks to the Notranjska hiša Foundation and Mrs. Kranjec for sharing knowledge and flavors that delighted everyone present.
Photo: NRP archive and Zavod Notranjska hiša
We marked the conclusion of the Town of Fairy Tales with a graphic workshop led by academic graphic designer Martin Petrič. We learned the technique of woodcut printing and explored carnival motifs. Thanks to JSKD Cerknica and Mr. Petrič for an inspiring creative experience.
Photo: JSKD OI Cerknica archive
Now comes the highlight of the carnival festivities – the true banishing of winter! You are invited to join us for the carnival week, where we will together cause mischief and ensure that winter leaves for good:
- Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM - Carnival Exhibition and Carnival Podcast, the former Brestov Salon
- Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 5:00 PM – Old Wives' Sawing - Žaganje babe, tent in the parking lot in front of Cerknica Primary School
- Friday, February 28, 2025, at 6:00 PM – Polslavnica, Cerknica Sports Hall
- Friday, February 28, 2025, at 9:00 PM – Carnival party with Tanja Žagar and Mambo Kings, tent in the parking lot in front of Cerknica Primary School
- Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM – Children's Carnival Performance "Medved Bu v Butalah", Cerknica Cultural Centre
- Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 2:00 PM – Children's masquerade with Romana Kranjčan and a secret guest, Cerknica Sports Hall
- Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 9:00 PM – Carnival party with Zvita feltna and Miran Rudan inDesign, tent in the parking lot in front of Cerknica Primary School
- Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 12:32 PM – Grand Carnival – Pustoletje, Cerknica
- Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM – Burial of the Carnival, Cerknica
Join us and together we will create an unforgettable celebration of the carnival season by the Cerknica Carnival Society!
