Dry-coated days: playing darts and cooking asparagus (PHOTO)

In Žužemberk, Slovenia, traditional Suhokranjski dnevi were celebrated with a mix of cultural activities, community engagement, and infrastructure milestones. The annual event, held on April 3, opened with the lighting of a bonfire in Malo Lipovce, followed by competitions in traditional instruments such as the frajtonarica, and lively entertainment in Hinja. The day was marked by a variety of activities aimed at preserving local heritage while promoting health and wellness. The celebration included awards given to blood donors, a competition in pikada (a traditional game) for the mayor’s cup, performances by enthusiasts of Pečjak harmonicas, cycling along the dry land route, presentations of Bowno therapy and preventive health measures, displays of handcrafted items by retirees, and a market featuring street vendors. A cooking contest for ješprenje (a type of preserved fruit) added a culinary dimension to the festivities. At the Dvor, participants raised the Slovenian flag and offered children's entertainment through the Boršt ensemble, while the Suhokranjska noč (Dry Day Night) concluded with a memorial hour dedicated to the late actress Zalla Zarana, performed by the Tomaz Rot ensemble. The town also showcased its pride in recent developments, particularly the completion of a new fire training center in the region. This facility, located in Žužemberk, serves as a shared resource for three regional fire brigades: Nova Gorica, Trbošćica, and Šentjernej. It connects twelve municipalities and provides a state-of-the-art venue for firefighter training. The site includes a 20-meter wide and 75-meter long training ground, complete with reinforced concrete posts for exercises, a multi-level platform, and a water tank with safety railings. The center also features a technical rescue area, where firefighters and other emergency responders will undergo specialized training. The opening ceremony of this regional fire training center highlighted the collaborative effort behind the project. Mayor Jože Papež emphasized the importance of joint goals in maintaining high standards of preparedness for emergency services. He noted that the facility represents more than just a building, it is a space for continuous learning and skill refinement. “Every firefighter knows that successful intervention depends not on luck, but on knowledge, training, discipline, and mutual trust,” said Major Marko Adamič, deputy commander of the Slovenian Fire Service. Dr. Vida Čadonič Špelič, the minister of defense’s state secretary, expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the project and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting emergency services. Among the honored individuals were several key figures in the community. Roman Setnikar, longtime president of the PGD Križi and Čebelarsko Društvo Dvor, received the gold medal. Jadranka Meglen, president of the KD Dvor, was awarded silver, and Petra Bradač, a mentor for young members of the fire service in Dvor, received bronze. Additional recognition went to the Section of Female Craftsmanship of the Retired Workers’ Association Žužemberk, led by Mihaela Ožbolt and Vlasta Jaklič, as well as Maša Koler and Maja Papež Iskra, members of the Šmihel Cultural Society. Their contributions have played a vital role in the continued growth and vitality of the municipality.