Once a year there is a pleasant scent in Ptuj coming from the nearby monastery. The scent comes from the special dishes, prepared by Slovenian culinary masters within a special traditional cuisine competition. The winners are granted gold medals and diplomas and it is really tough for the jury to take a decision. They have to choose the best among excellent dairy and meat dishes, different types of dry fruit, juices, oils, jams and cheeses. The dishes are beautifully arranged and the even is accompanied by lots of traditional music and dances.
It is again in Ptuj that a big carnival is held by the end of the winter. The local people put on sheepskins, belts with five big bells, red socks and black boots. They cover their faces with masks and carry sticks in their hands. They are called Kurenti and, according to the popular belief, they chase away winter from Ptuj and lure the spring to come. The Kurent would embrace a girl, picked up by him, and dance with her.
The girl would often stick a handkerchief behind his belt as an expression of her affection. Dressed up in these costumes, the Kurenti move in groups, dance and make a lot of noise.