Slovenia’s role as Guest of Honour at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair is not just a ceremonial title—it comes with a packed program of events designed to showcase its literary richness and cultural diversity. From author panels and poetry readings to visual art, music, and food, Slovenia is bringing a complete experience to one of the world’s largest literary gatherings.
Whether you’re a book lover, publisher, translator, or just curious about Slovenian culture, this guide walks you through what to expect across the five days of the fair—and beyond.
Table of Contents
Pavilion
At the heart of Slovenia’s presence is the official Guest of Honour Pavilion. Designed by leading Slovenian architects, it blends natural materials with interactive displays to reflect the country’s relationship with language, landscape, and identity.
Visitors can look into a curated selection of books, digital media installations, and live performances inside the space. The pavilion also serves as a hub for author readings, literary discussions, and media events throughout the fair.
Expect a calming yet intellectually stimulating environment where literature meets technology and tradition.
Schedule
Here’s a snapshot of Slovenia’s core program across the fair dates:
| Date | Key Events |
|---|---|
| Oct 8, Wed | Opening Ceremony, Pavilion Launch, National Reception |
| Oct 9, Thu | Author Panels, Translation Forums, Children’s Literature Day |
| Oct 10, Fri | Poetry Readings, Graphic Novel Talks, Publishers’ Meetings |
| Oct 11, Sat | Youth Workshops, Live Music, Culinary Tastings |
| Oct 12, Sun | Literary Walks, Farewell Panel, Closing Highlights |
Each day features programming for both professional and general audiences. Events run across multiple halls, with a focus on Hall 5.1 and the Slovenia Pavilion area.
Authors
Over 75 Slovenian authors will appear at the fair, representing a mix of fiction, poetry, essays, non-fiction, and graphic novels.
Notable names include Drago Jančar, Anja Mugerli, Nataša Kramberger, Goran Vojnović, Katja Gorečan, and many others. Authors will participate in readings, panel talks, meet-and-greet sessions, and live interviews.
Debut authors and younger voices will also take part in special events under the “New Voices from Slovenia” program.
Literature
Slovenia is using this platform to present over 150 translated works, many in German and English. New editions are being launched during the fair, including poetry anthologies, children’s books, and literary fiction.
A special spotlight is being placed on translation, with events featuring both authors and their translators. These discussions offer insight into the creative process of bringing Slovenian literature to a global audience.
There will also be a display of Slovenian book design and publishing trends, showing how Slovenia blends innovation with literary tradition.
Culture
Beyond books, Slovenia’s program offers a full cultural experience. Expect live music performances from Slovenian jazz and folk artists, art installations, and design showcases.
One evening will feature a “Slovenian Culture Night” with music, food, and cross-artform collaboration involving dance and visual art.
Visitors can enjoy traditional Slovenian cuisine during tastings at select events, including dishes like potica, kranjska klobasa, and local wines.
Children
Children’s and young adult literature are getting special attention. Slovenia will host storytelling sessions, interactive games, and illustrator workshops aimed at younger visitors.
The Children’s Day (Oct 9) will include puppet theatre performances, story circles, and author readings for schools and families.
Several Slovenian children’s books will be launched in German translation, offering a chance for new readers to discover these unique stories.
Industry
For publishers, agents, and editors, Slovenia’s program includes business-focused events such as:
- Rights sales and matchmaking sessions
- Translation funding seminars
- Publisher networking events
- Panels on the Slovenian book market and trends
The goal is to build long-term connections and encourage licensing deals beyond 2025.
Beyond
Slovenia’s presence goes beyond the fairgrounds. Throughout Frankfurt, expect to find satellite events in museums, libraries, and bookstores.
Slovenian films based on literary works will be screened at local cinemas, and joint exhibitions with German institutions will run during the week.
The Slovenian Cultural Centre in Berlin will also host parallel events, helping to extend the fair’s impact across Germany.
Slovenia’s program at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025 is more than just a schedule—it’s a statement. A statement about the power of stories, the value of translation, and the richness of Slovenian culture. Whether you’re attending in person or following from afar, this showcase promises to leave a lasting impression on the global literary landscape.
FAQs
When is Slovenia’s main event day?
Slovenia’s key events kick off on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.
Where is the Slovenia Pavilion located?
It’s in Hall 5.1, the center of Guest of Honour activities.
Are events only for professionals?
No, the program includes public readings, workshops, and family events.
Will books be available in English?
Yes, many Slovenian titles will launch in English and German editions.
Can kids attend Slovenia’s events?
Yes, there’s a full Children’s Day program on October 9.
