Christmas Markets in Ljubljana – The Ultimate Guide

Christmas time in the capital is especially enchanting. Throughout the month of December, the city center transforms into a magical holiday destination, complete with Christmas markets, mulled wine, and festive events. So, what shouldn't you miss during December?

Switching on the Lights

The switching on of the lights is a wonderful introduction to the December festivities. It usually takes place on the last Friday in November, when the people of Ljubljana gather to count down to the big moment. The centerpiece of the event - and of the entire decoration - is a giant pine tree adorned with over 8 km of lights, located in Prešeren Square.

Fun fact: each year, the tree even gets its own name!

Don’t miss the other light installations either - they’re quite unique and feature mathematical symbols, equations, planets, and biological concepts.

However, the event tends to attract large crowds, so if you're not a fan of packed spaces, you might want to skip it.

Christmas lights in Ljubljana

Kaiserschmarn at the Christmas Market

Christmas Markets

The city comes alive with various markets selling everything from warm drinks and tasty street food to handcrafted items - perfect for finding that special Christmas gift. Don’t miss the stalls at Pogačarjev trg, Kongresni trg, the castle courtyard, and along the banks of the Ljubljanica River.

Stop by for some typical mulled wine (red or white), or indulge in a sweet treat such as candied almonds with cinnamon - usually sold in front of confectionery shops like Cukrček and best enjoyed warm! Another local favorite is “Jezerškov šmorn” (Kaiserschmarrn served with forest fruits or apple sauce), typically available at the first stall by Tromostovje in front of Lolita Café.

If you're looking for handcrafted gifts to bring home, take a stroll along Breg and discover what local artisans have created.

You can find up-to-date information on this year’s Christmas markets here.

Concerts and Events during December

December is also a lively month filled with free entertainment. Each year, the week between Christmas and New Year comes alive with free evening concerts held in Kongresni trg, Pogačarjev trg, and Trg francoske revolucije. Grab a warm drink and enjoy the music!

Concert in Congress Square

Nativity Scenes in Ljubljana

A special nativity scene made out of straw is set up along the riverbank of the Ljubljanica at Gallusovo nabrežje and at Ljubljana Castle. Pro tip for nativity lovers: during December, nearly every church has one. Just stop by the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation in Prešeren Square and take a look - but be mindful not to interrupt any ongoing services!

The Good Men: Grandpa Frost and St. Nicholas

While many countries have Santa Claus, St. Nicholas, or another gift-giving mythical figure, Slovenian children are lucky to be visited by three! Known as Trije dobri možje (roughly “Three Good Men”), they include St. Nicholas (Miklavž), Santa Claus (Božiček), and Grandpa Frost (Dedek Mraz), each appearing on a different date. Check out the St. Nicholas parade (December 5th in the city centre) and if you were good you might receive some candy. If not, beware of Krampuses that travel with St. Nick!

More about the culture of Three Good Men

Do all three visit every child? Not quite. Most families choose one main gift-giver, and which one depends on tradition and religion. For example, Christian families often celebrate St. Nicholas on December 6th as the main figure. Santa Claus typically comes on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning (December 24th/25th), while Grandpa Frost arrives on December 31st. While it’s rare for children to receive large gifts from all three, many families still mark each date with smaller treats like candy or oranges.

Ana Mraz

Ana Mraz is a winter international street theatre festival organized by the Ana Monro Theatre. Checkout a rich artistic program to the capital, adding to the festive spirit with magical outdoor performances here.