Slovenia Weekly: Culture and Sport Unite Us

This week in Slovenia, culture and sport are in the spotlight. On Sunday, 8 February, Slovenia marks its national cultural holiday, known as Prešeren Day. Unlike other days, this day is dedicated entirely to culture. It is a holiday that brings us together through art and offers an opportunity to reflect on our cultural identity. Across Slovenia, numerous events take place on this day – from literary evenings and theatre performances to exhibitions and concerts celebrating creativity and artistic expression. The highlight of the celebrations is the central state ceremony on the eve of the holiday, at which the Prešeren Awards and the Prešeren Fund Awards are presented – the highest national honours for artistic achievements in Slovenia.

Much like culture, sport also unites Slovenians. Slovenia will be represented by 37 athletes at the Olympic Games, with ski jumpers considered the strongest contenders. For the first time in Slovenia’s history, a brother and sister will carry the Slovenian flag at the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games. Both Nika Prevc and Domen Prevc are convincingly leading the overall World Cup standings this season. Slovenia will once again have a Slovenian House at the Winter Olympic Games this year. Designed as a hub connecting sport, business, culture and science, it will be located in the very centre of Cortina d’Ampezzo. The Slovenian House, for which the state has allocated one million euros, will serve as a presentation and networking venue, enabling a unified national presence under the I feel Slovenia brand. The Ambassador of the Slovenian House, which can host up to 250 guests, is Tina Maze, a two-time Olympic champion and the most successful Slovenian alpine skier of all time.