18. Festival Arsana

WORLD MUSIC EXPERIENCE

13. 6. – 28. 8. 2026 – Ptuj, Slovenija

Foto: Albin Bezjak

The Arsana International Festival has, in recent years, grown into one of the most recognisable music festivals in Slovenia and this part of Europe. Over sixteen years, the second biggest festival in Slovenia has presented more than 1,300 events, hosted 12,000 internationally renowned artists, and attracted 600,000 visitors from entire Slovenia, Europe, and other continents. With eminent performers from the international music scene, the festival has inscribed the oldest Slovenian town on the world music map. Top-quality classical, jazz, ethno, pop, rock, world instrumental and vocal music for all generations and tastes, a children’s festival, a youth stage, classical masters, a comedy stage, music in the city, culinary delights, street performances, and other outstanding events intertwine across the squares, courtyards, and streets of the fairytale old town of Ptuj.

In 2024, the festival became a member of the European Festival Association (EFA). That is the leading network of the most prestigious festivals in Europe, which includes renowned festivals such as Edinburgh International Festival (Scotland), Berliner Festspiele (Germany), Holland Festival (Netherlands), Music Biennale Zagreb (Croatia), Festival Ljubljana (Slovenia), BBC Proms (UK), Ravenna Festival (Italy), Rotterdam Festivals (Netherlands), Sarajevo Fest (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Ohrid Summer Festival (North Macedonia), Odessa Classics Music Festival (Ukraine).

The 18th Arsana Festival will take place from June 13 to August 28, 2026, across the scenic historical venues of Ptuj. Over 50 events, it will host around 400 domestic and international artists from the spheres of classical, jazz, ethno, world, rock, and popular music. The festival also caters to younger audiences, offering children’s activities and a varied supporting program.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

  • Diverse musical genres: Arsana spans a wide spectrum—from classical and jazz to pop, rock, ethno, world music, chanson, vocal, and instrumental performances.
  • International and local artists: Every year it hosts acclaimed musicians from Slovenia and abroad, renowned for top-tier concerts and unique cross-border collaborations.
  • Unique venues: Concerts take place in Ptuj’s historic settings—from city market squares and streets, monasteries, castle halls, to intimate clubs, courtyards, and cafés—creating an atmosphere rich in history and offering unforgettable concert backdrops.
  • Adaptability and innovation: The festival evolves with current trends, encompassing modern musical expressions.
  • Connection with the local community: It collaborates closely with local artists, associations, and institutions, contributing significantly to the region’s cultural development.
  • Blend of tradition and modernity: Arsana is celebrated for its relaxed yet elegant vibe, harmonizing tradition, art, and contemporary culture.

PROGRAM OFFERINGS

The festival’s scope extends beyond music to include various artistic and cultural forms:

  • Concerts: The mainstay of the festival, featuring top-tier musicians and ensembles that draw large audiences.
  • Workshops and talks: Music workshops, courses, and discussions with artists—tailored for both professionals and enthusiasts.
  • Cultural performances: Theatre and dance performances, as well as literary events.
  • Family-friendly events: Activities designed for all ages, including dedicated children’s and family programming.
  • Culinary experiences: A harmonious link between culture, music, and Ptuj’s wine tradition—often enriched with wine tastings. The “Open Kitchen” segment blends diverse culinary worlds.

FESTIVAL OBJECTIVES

  • Promoting Ptuj: Arsana plays a pivotal role in presenting Ptuj as a historic cultural center of Slovenia.
  • Developing musical culture: It aims to foster a love for music and the arts across generations, fostering intercultural dialogue.
  • Connecting artists: The festival encourages collaboration between Slovenian and international artists, creating unique artistic synergies.

HISTORY

Founded in 2008, Festival Arsana began with a focus on classical music, intending to enrich Ptuj’s cultural scene. Over the years, the programming has expanded across various musical genres and arts. It has become one of Slovenia’s most recognized festivals, drawing thousands of visitors annually.

Festival Arsana is more than a music festival—it’s a true cultural experience that combines art, community, and local traditions in historic Ptuj.

For this year’s program details, venues, and tickets, please refer to the Program section on the festival’s website.

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