The oldest Slovenian ethnographic event – Shepherds’ Festival
Sunday the 11th of August 2019
In the past sheep and cows were one of the most important livestock to many families in Jezersko, and shepherds who took care of the animals were well appreciated and respected. For that reason, every year at the end of the summer, people in Jezersko organized a greeting to the shepherds and their herds that came back to the valley after spending whole summer in the mountain pastures.
The tradition was carried on with generations and for that reason, today the Shepherds’ Festival or “Ovčarski bal” is the oldest ethnographic event in Slovenia, this year will be the 61st!

Every year on the second Sunday in August, the Restaurant by the Planšar lake and the Tourist Association of Jezersko organize the festival. The program, which will begin at 11am, will include old customs from the mountains. Sheepherding, and jobs, associated with the processing of sheep’s wool from shearing and spinning to knitting socks, will be demonstrated. From 2pm, the traditional band will be in charge of a varied and fun afternoon.
You will be able to pamper your taste buds with homemade dishes prepared in the traditional way on an open fire. »Masunjek« with sour milk and buckwheat »žganci« with cabbage were dishes that shepherds used to prepare in the mountains. Fresh fried »flancati« still symbolize the festive atmosphere of the event.

Source and photos: TIC Jezersko