Loka in the Snow Festival

Concert by Big Foot Mama, one of the most popular Slovene rock bands, at the Loka in the Snow Festival, Škofja Loka 2023. Author: Anja Strojan

Loka in the Snow Festival (Loka v snegu) is a local festival that takes place at various locations in Škofja Loka in December. Initially a rather modest festival, it began in 2010 and has since grown into an annual event that lasts a whole month. It encompasses music, theater, urban sports, stand-up comedy, children's programs, film screenings, and more.

The festival venues are numerous, including the Sokolski dom Cultural Centre, Pri Rdeči Ostrigi, a tent at the Štemarje parking lot, the outdoor areas of various local bars, several smaller squares, and the main square of the old town center (one of the best-preserved medieval squares in Slovenia).

Background

Loka v snegu, conceived with the idea of revitalizing the city, was once just a series of music concerts in the city center. From 2010 to 2016, the festival was known as Beli december (White December). The new name – Loka in the Snow – has been brought about, among other things, by the cooperation of numerous organizations that jointly prepare an interesting, varied, and diverse December programme. Loka v snegu is named after Ivan Grohar's painting of the same name, painted from the balcony of Homan House. The festival encompasses everything we want during the holidays: the arrival of good men, great concerts, activities for children, shows for adults, and, last but not least, a fun New Year’s Eve celebration with music and locals. The festival is organized by the Municipality of Škofja Loka and coordinated by Zavod 973.

Programme

Loka v snegu program has featured bands such as Nina Pušlar, Čedahuči, Jazzva, Uroš Perić and Primož Grašič, Hamo & Tribute 2 Love, Manca Izmajlova, TABU, HELP! – A Beatles tribute band, Mi2, Joške v’n, Gino band, Slavko Ivančič, Miha Šalehar, Rade Šerbedžija, Samuel Lucas, Peter Lovšin, Double Trouble, Rudi Bučar, Big Foot Mama, MRFY, Klemen Klemen, Alya – a diverse lineup that blends alternative musicians with mainstream pop acts.

Additionally, the festival presents numerous theater and street theater performances, workshops, and other events aimed at actively engaging the local and regional population.

Workshops at Sokolski dom Cultural Centre in Škofja Loka during the Loka in the Snow Festival in 2023. Author: Anja Strojan