Festival Vinarium 2026 will take place in Lendava from August 20th to September 5th, bringing together cultural traditions, culinary delights, wine tasting, music, and modern attractions. The event, which has become a hallmark of the town’s identity, promises to celebrate its rich heritage while introducing innovative experiences. Among the highlights will be the Bogračfest, the 47th Lendavska Trgatev, and the celebration of the 11th anniversary of the Stolp Vinarium. These main events will be accompanied by a variety of activities over more than two weeks, including traditional festivals, food fairs, concerts, and cultural exhibitions. The festival's program was unveiled during a press conference held in Mestni Park Roža, attended by representatives from local government, tourism organizations, and cultural institutions. Janez Magyar, mayor of Lendava, emphasized the blend of tradition and innovation that defines this year’s edition. He noted that visitors will have the opportunity to experience Lendava from above with hot-air balloon rides organized by the Balonarski Klub Roto Murska Sobota, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding areas. Additionally, drones will play a key role in the Bogračfest, projecting images that trace the history, present, and future of Lendava through light displays. The Bogračfest, set for Saturday, August 22nd, will feature over 110 cooking pots competing for the title of best bograč, a traditional dish deeply rooted in Lendava’s culture. This event will not only showcase culinary talent but also include a wide range of activities such as food stalls, children’s programs, craft workshops, a chocolate fountain, photo booths, a bograč market, free tourist shuttle services, and even a special guest appearance by MasterChef Slovenia winner Miša Koplova. According to Igor Magdič, director of the Tourism and Development Center of Lendava, the Bogračfest continues to be a central narrative of the festival, drawing attention with creative team names like “3 Hot Čiliji,” “Najkijeve Adidaske,” and “Drunken Vikings.” The event will also offer entertainment for all ages, including a free concert by the band Deja Vu and a major performance by Dražen Zečić. Throughout the festival, there will be four ethnological evenings dedicated to Slovenian, Hungarian, Croatian, and Serbian-Novi Sad cultures. These evenings will highlight the musical, folk, and culinary aspects of each community, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s multicultural roots. On August 28th, the focus will shift to local wines, featuring wine tastings and open-air winery cuisine in Mestni Park Roža. The following day, the 47th Lendavska Trgatev will transform the old town center into a vibrant hub of ethnic and culinary events, involving approximately 60 groups and nearly 400 participants from Slovenia, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia. The festival will conclude with the 11th anniversary celebrations of the Stolp Vinarium, symbolizing Lendava’s commitment to preserving its historical and cultural landmarks. The main festivities will take place on September 5th, starting at 11 a.m., with craft workshops, children’s animation, and a photo exhibition showcasing the town’s past. Visitors will receive free entry to the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. The anniversary will also mark the presentation of a new regional version of the Prekmurje movement, named Vinarium, developed within the framework of the project "Doživi Prekmurje." The final evening will feature performances by bands such as Srebrna Krila, Vlado Kalember, and Novi Fosili, all part of a free concert celebrating the town’s enduring spirit.
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