11 Feb in Food and drink, Things to do in Rogaska The winter has finally come, and by that I mean the real winter; with snow and everything that goes along winter time. Unfortunately, many parts of Slovenia have been damaged because of the sleet and cold, so many of us just want winter to go away and make way for better weather – I personally cannot wait for spring to come! Here at the Grand Hotel we have decided to make an evening dedicated to the Carnival celebration on 1st of March. You will enjoy an evening of music and, of course, wearing a mask is obligatory! There will also be a special buffet dinner, where you will have the opportunity to choose from delicious dishes. The main point is for you to have fun and enjoy in pleasant evening in the great Crystal Hall. The next day, on 2nd of March, you will also have the chance to participate in the carnival parade called “Kurentovanje” in Ptuj. This will be a lovely trip, and this carnival parade has a long tradition in Slovenian culture. Kurent is a a creature that symbolises the arrival of spring. The Kurent wears a sheepskin coat and a chain belt with cowbells attached around his waist. He wears gaiters and heavy boots as well, and his head is covered with a mask. In his left hand, he holds a club called ‘ježevka’. Kurents, who jump, wear sheepskin coats, hold wooden clubs with a hedgehog skin attached at one end called “ježevke”, and wear cowbells tied around their waist, began making a noise. In this way, Kurents announce that winter is saying goodbye and that spring is coming. In Slovenia, the most Shrovetide characters and masks have been preserved on the Drava plain, in Haloze and Slovenske gorice. Kurentovanje is the biggest Shrovetide carnival of public interest in Slovenia. Kurentovanje adds a touch of mysticism, and is one of the most important traditional events in Slovenia and middle Europe. Besides Kurents, there will also be other masks present, so do not forget to wear your mask too! It sounds like a very active weekend, but you do not have to worry about that! Besides half-board meals and accommodation in a Superior room (a free upgrade from Standard Room), you will enjoy free access to our saunas, fitness and swimming pools in our Spa & Beauty Centre, so there will also be a chance to relax whenever you want during your stay with us. All in all, if you are looking for some time to relax and have fun, or you are just tired from winter blues, come to our hotel and take a time just for yourself before the arrival of spring.
