Weekend: Host of traditional events show that autumn is in full swing

ART

A taste of the atmosphere of prestigious film festivals

The tenth anniversary edition of the Be2Can film festival will offer a diverse and refined selection of the most outstanding films from the Berlin, Venice and Cannes festivals. Taking place in various towns all over Slovakia from October 11 to 18, the event will showcase brand new film-making voices as well as the work of iconic directors. For more information about the movies, programme and participating cinemas, click here (in English).

If you don't like to hike, but still love mountains

What better place to hold a festival of alpine films than Poprad? Although the 31st edition of the international festival started on Wednesday, its programme continues over the weekend, offering a selection of films as well as panels with hosts, including Peter Hámor, a Slovak mountaineer. For more information, click here (in Slovak).

TIP: Stepping aside is the biggest respect you can pay us, says legendary mountain porter.

The Chata pod Rysmi mountain hut. (source: SME Archive - Vladimír Šimíček)

Learn traditions, folklore in Košice

Starting on Thursday, the three day festival of traditional culture called Essence will showcase the dances, songs and music from various historic regions of eastern Slovakia. Visitor will get an opportunity to learn dances, attend concerts and dance balls. For more information, including tickets, click here (in Slovak).

FOOD

Oktoberfest around the corner

If the Oktoberfest held in Munich is too far away, why not come this weekend to Bratislava's Lamač borough and enjoy music, craft beer, grilled meals and street food? The festival will take place on the Malokarpatské Námestie square.

SPORT

Challenging hikes in the High Tatras

There are still a few weeks before most of the trails in the High Tatras will close at the beginning of November for the winter season. If you want to test your physical prowess, here are three tips for more challenging hikes. The Slovak Spectator's very own Jana Liptáková recently summited Rysy, the highest peak in the High Tatras that does not require hikers to be accompanied by a mountain guide.

On the other hand, Matúš Beňo went on back-to-back trails to nearby Kôprovský Štít and overheard Polish hikers making fun of the number of people on Rysy, as well as Východná Vysoká that lies in the heart of the mountain range, thus offering beautiful views.

The Veľká Studená Dolina valley with several of its mountain lakes. The Zbojnícka Chata mountain hut is between the third and fourth one from left. (source: Matúš Beňo)

TIP: One of the most beautiful Tatras waterfalls: a guide for inexperienced hikers.

TRAVEL

End the season in Budatín Castle with a bang

The Budatínsky Rínok fair is a traditional event that ends the main season at Budatín Castle in Žilina, northern Slovakia. On Saturday, October 14, the castle grounds will come to life with concerts, handmade items, and farm products. Visitors will be able to participate in workshops, observe the night sky and have a closer look at a huge inflatable Moon and Mars, and much more. For more information, click here (in Slovak).

Fair in the historic part of Trnava

On Saturday, the town of Trnava will hold a similar fair of its own. Called Jesenný Trnavský Rínok, the event will bring dozens of local producers to the historic street and square near the Saint Nicholas Church offering their cakes, confectionery, good coffee, lemonades, and other delicacies. A perfect way to fill your pantry ahead of the winter! In addition, you will be able to buy books or records from an antique store, beautiful clothes and other items as well. For more information, click here (in Slovak).

TIP: Buses took them to a meadow in the mountains at night. What they saw was fascinating.

MISCELLANEOUS FUN

Wheels. Wheels everywhere

An exhibition where touching the exhibits is not only desirable, but almost necessary. This week, the town of Stropkov, northeastern Slovakia, is opening an interactive exhibition of scientific toys called Koleso (Wheel), inviting everyone to learn about wheels in space, nature, technology, science, museums, cartoons, jokes, sports, entertainment, optical illusions and inventions. If you want to visit, you need to make an appointment. For more information, click here (in Slovak).

Paper and plastic plane showcase

This one is for all the paper and plastic plane models afficionados. On Saturday, October 14, the town of Nitra is holding a special event called Nitra Model 2023. Although registration for the various competitions has been closed, the public is welcome to join in on the fun. In addition to getting the opportunity to see all the models, visitors will be able to make some themselves, learn to paint miniatures, assemble models and more. For more information, click here (in Slovak).

Castle decorated with pumpkins

It would not be autumn with no pumpkins. The traditional pumpkin festival returns to Beckov Castle for the 10th edition. In addition to carving Jack-o'-lanterns, 20 tasks await those who wish the challenge their physical prowess, creative mind and knowledge as well. The event will end with a special evening tour of the castle decorated with the carved pumpkins. For more information, click here (in Slovak).

A carved pumpkin. (source: TASR)

TIP: Reconstruction of Beckov Castle's western palace finished, new rooms will be made available.

UPCOMING EVENTS

October 19-22: Six countries will meet in Banská Bystrica, central Slovakia, in a floorball tournament called Six Nations Floorball Challenge.

October 21: Day of wine cellars in Trnava.

October 28: Pumpkin party at the Malkia Park Big Cat Rescue near the village of Orechová Potôň, Dunajská Streda district.

BEFORE YOU GO

WHAT TO DO FOR FREE: Would it be two great acts of the Slovak independent scene or a forest walk?

WHAT TO BE CHEERFUL ABOUT: Popular cave reopened, and Slovak pianist and composer making waves in the world of jazz.

WHAT TO EXPLORE IN BRATISLAVA: An exhibition of original illustrations for children’s books, and a host of dance events.

WHAT TO HEAR: A family tragedy hasn't stopped this Malaysian artist from enjoying the small things in Slovakia.

That's it for this week. Take care, and have a restful weekend!