The Kurent (or Korent) is a mythical god from Slovenian folklore known for his debauchery. Symbolically, the Kurenti represents fertility in several realms, including agriculture, animal husbandry, and human life, which is why he is the perfect figure to represent springtime.
In Ptuj Kurenti groups run from house to house during Shrovetide usually accompanied by devils forming a circle in the yard. It takes place from Candlemas to Ash Wednesday.
The mid-20th century saw traditional village carnivals disappear from the Slovenian landscape. However, to keep these customs alive, the modern Ptuj festival, Kurentovanje, was formed in 1960.
When it was first organized, only unmarried men were allowed to dress up as Kurenti. They would shake their bells on their waist as they moved from house to house. This was believed to ward off evil spirits and, of course, the cold weather. Now both married men and women wear Kurent masks to ward off the winter as they see fit.
The practice is important for the development of interpersonal bonds and is a key part of community identity. Kindergartens and elementary schools play a role in the safeguarding process, and some formal education workshops help retain the respect it has gained through the centuries.
Generally, knowledge and skills related to this practice are shared among family members, but youngsters can also learn from older members of the groups to which they belong. The schools and museums also contribute to organize workshops and contests.
In 1994, the festival's schedule was extended to almost three days. Currently, the festival lasts for 11 days, starting on Saturday, one week before Shrove Sunday, when traditional costumes are only worn in procession on the streets of Ptuj, and when the Prince of the Carnival rules the town during the carnival period.
Kurentovanje is unique in that each village and town has its own traditions. In Markovci, the Kurenti groups are recognized for their feathers, while in Haloze, the Kurenti groups are known for their horns. When travelling, the Kurenti group is accompanied by a devil (generally dressed in red), who helps them along the way and scares nearby children as they pass by.
The Kurenti practice gained international relevance through the years when costumes from Serbia, North Macedonia, Croatia, Italy, Austria, and many other countries were added to the local costumes. Over time, the number of spectators and participants grew and, each year, thousands of people visit the Carnival events, attracted by the eye-catching costumes and taking part in the fun.