Bratislava, Slovakia » Entertainment » Festivals

An important festival for upcoming artists, entrepreneurs and socialites, the Bratislava Ball is also for the introduction of young ladies and gentlemen to the society. An invite to the Ball is considered a prestigious honour. The affair is focused on the celebration of Bratislava's culture, history and arts. Classical music, ballet, waltz and other traditional dances are showcased, alongside popular, modern musical bands. One of the highlights of the event is the awarding of Bratislava Cucoriedka (Bilberry) Awards. It is given to interesting and inspiring people who live a good example of Bratislava life.

Address: Reduta, Palackeho Street, Bratislava

Tel: +421 2 5443 0983

Month: January

The Easter Market is a great venue to scout out some of the most unique Slovak souvenirs. Coloured eggs, whips, ceramics, wooden decors, handicrafts, potteries, candies, baskets and other local products are sold.

Address: Old Town, Frantiskanske namestie, Bratislava

Opening Hours: 10AM - 6PM

Month: late March to mid-April

The City Marathon is a running race with special categories like children run, short running course, in-line skating race and others. This fun-filled event comes with concerts, shows, fireworks and an after-party festivity of mingling.

Address: Vajnorská 8/A, 831 04 Bratislava

Tel: +421 2 5556 8172

Month: March / April

Wine cellars all over Bratislava, and the rest of Slovakia, many locals and even tourists take part in the opening season of the Low Carpathian Wine Route. Wine has always been an important, if not intoxicating, product of Slovakia. It is celebrated in every meal, and the wine tasting event is highly patronized by many locals and tourists.

Address: Wine cellars from Bratislava to Trnava

Tel: +421 3 3643 3489

Opening Hours: Daily 10AM - 9PM

Month: May / September

Inspired by Munich's Octoberfest, Junifest: National Beer Festival is a towns-gathering complete with concerts, beer contests, arts & crafting, some goulash partying, or even singing competitions as well as the Miss Junifest pageant. Guests get to try draught beer, and many other beer selections from various breweries.

Location: Incheba, Bratislava

Tel: +421 2 5249 3975

Opening Hours: - Daily: 3PM - midnight

Friday to Saturday: 3PM - 2AM

Month: June

The Slovak Association of Military History and Historical Weapon Shooters organize an event re-enacting the battle in which Napoleon suffered his first defeat.

Location: Park of Janko Kral, Petrzalka, Bratislava

Tel: +421 2 6826 6200

Month: late June / early July

Step into medieval time and witness as actors bring out the foils and stage a fencing battle. While in castle premises, watch out for witches, executioners, period musicians and realistic characters in costumes. This cultural festival will surely transport visitors back to the old days.

Location: The Devin Castle, Bratislava

Tel: +421 2 5935 6650

Month: July / August

A commemoration of the crowning of the King will be held, as authentic as can be, complete with the royal coronation process, the Dubbing of the Knight of the Golden Spur, Drums and Bugles, the Old Town Execution and majestic fireworks. Alongside these events, there will also be ox roasting, historic crafts for sale, historical dances and music, photo opportunities with the giant royal puppets, and knights costume galore.

Location: Old Town, Bratislava

Tel: +421 2 2070 7501

Opening Hours: 2PM - 7:30PM

Month: 1st weekend of September

The famous Bratislava Christmas Market kicks off late November. Wooden stalls are put up, along with holiday decors. Ornaments, gifts, festive food and drinks are sold, while choir, live music, concert or even theatrical play productions add rhythm to the lively atmosphere. The Christmas feeling is undeniable to visitors and vendors alike. No wonder the market attracts thousands of people each day. Visitors find themselves munching on local delicacies like hot pancakes and mulled wine.

Location: Main Square, Bratislava

Tel: +421 2 5935 6599

Month: late November to December

The Bratislava Music Festival is the most prestigious musical event in the city. Foreign and local masters and composers perform in what is considered a walk-through of the nation's classic literature in forms of orchestra, ballet, opera, symphony productions. Tenors, sopranos and conductors serenade audiences with profound musical pieces, as the rhythmic echo of the chamber unite to celebrate Bratislava's past and its successful present.

Address: Reduta, Bratislava

Tel: +421 2 5443 0378

Month: October or November