Prešeren Day, the Slovenian Cultural Holiday
February 8 · Level 5 · #1151 of 2238
Prešeren Day is Slovenia's public holiday celebrating culture, named after the poet France Prešeren. Held on the anniversary of his death, it recognises the place of literature, language and the arts in the country's shared identity.
How it is celebrated: poetry readings, concerts and exhibitions take place, and many museums and galleries offer free admission. The prestigious Prešeren Awards for artistic achievement are presented on the eve of the holiday.
Slovenia's national anthem uses the seventh stanza of Prešeren's poem Zdravljica, or “A Toast,” expressing a wish for free nations and peaceful neighbours.