Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital, has been for decades known as the progressive and welcoming city for diverse lifestyles and activities. Hence, it has been also called Ljubljana – The Open City. Among the events that contributed to Ljubljana’s nickname, is the annual Pink Week celebration that has played, according to Slovenian Tourist Board, “a vital role in transforming Slovenia (the only country with ‘love’ in its name) into one of Europe’s leading LGBT+ destinations”. Since the beginning of the project in 2014, Ljubljana has played a leading role in raising awareness in Slovenia about respect for diversity.
Usually held in month of May, the Pink Week was this year in its 7th edition held in between 1 and 5 September. Last year the event was cancelled due to the Covid situation. A project to promote the destination as LGBT+ friendly welcomed twenty-one guests from USA, Italy, Belgium, Germany and Netherlands. Participants got an opportunity to get acknowledged with Slovenia and its capital through exclusive travel packages with exciting adventures, parties and gastronomic journeys.
Special emphasis was on Ljubljana, where they enjoyed in guided tours, a visit to Ljubljana Castle, a boat ride and excellent gastronomy. The five-day event closed with the traditional Dragon’s Ball, this year held at the Ljubljana Castle. The signature Dragon’s Ball, every year under auspices of Ljubljana Mayor Zoran Janković, stands for a magical VIP party where guests can dance the night away with Slovenia’s A-listers and socialites.
“We want to show to guests from abroad that Slovenians are friendly and fun and we want to give them an unforgettable party,” say Matej Valenčič and Matej Knific from the Luxury Slovenia agency. Luxury Slovenia organises the event every year with the support of the Ljubljana Tourism, Municipality of Ljubljana, and the Slovenian Tourist Board. Since the first event in 2014, the Pink Week has achieved high recognition in the international LGBT community and is every year attended by representatives of foreign travel agencies and the media.
