The countdown begins. From September 12 to 15, Trenčín will transform into a city with the courage to ask questions and the desire to explore. The Festival of Curiosity will open its doors wide to everyone who wants to experience Trenčín in a new way – through music, art, community, and unforgettable stories.
A dress rehearsal for 2026
The Festival of Curiosity is an invitation to the future – to the year when Trenčín will become the European Capital of Culture. Over four days, the city will turn into an open stage that connects generations, stories, and spaces.
“The Festival of Curiosity is an invitation for everyone who wants to discover Trenčín through new eyes. It’s our dress rehearsal for 2026 – a test of how we can connect the city’s stories with people and their curiosity,” says Stanislav Krajči, director of Trenčín 2026.
The festival kicks off on Friday, September 12 at 5:00 p.m. in the City Park. The symbolic countdown to 2026 will begin with a ceremonial gesture that measures not only time but also hope, anticipation, and the desire to get involved. Throughout the weekend, the city center will host the Curiosity Studios – spaces for anyone who wants to create, experiment, and explore. Expect music jams, puppet theatre, and visual experiments.
A city full of genres and generations
“This will be our biggest stress test so far before 2026 – in one weekend, Trenčín will host many different events for diverse audiences,” says Trenčín’s mayor Richard Rybníček.
The festival is a laboratory of cooperation – between institutions, neighborhoods, artists, and residents. Thanks to collaboration with the Trenčín Self-Governing Region, the program will extend beyond the city center. On Saturday afternoon, Trenčín Castle will host an event full of crafts, folklore, tastings, and knightings – for all who complete the Považie Castle Trail.
“We’re naturally expanding the festival across the whole region. This also helps boost tourism in the area,” adds Jaroslav Baška, President of the Trenčín Region.
Music, fire, and iconic buildings
The biggest music stage will be the Garage project – a three-day showcase of young musicians in M. R. Štefánik Park (September 12–14). It will feature concerts, workshops, and networking between professionals and new talents. This might just be where the next music star is born.
Saturday night will bring adrenaline with the new circus performance Propane Punk Show. At 8:00 p.m., Mierové Square will transform into a nighttime arena full of fire, acrobatics, and surprises.
And what about the iconic Hviezda? The legendary KKC Hviezda building is celebrating its 85th anniversary. From Friday to Sunday, it will host exhibitions, creative workshops, and music. Highlights include the concert of Fvck_Kvlt and Dušan Vlk on Saturday at 8:30 p.m., and the Sunday performance of Bratislava Hot Serenaders at 7:00 p.m.
Streets, neighbors, and cakes
During the festival, Trenčín will also come alive with the Autoreport exhibition at FORMAAT Gallery, presented by its curator during a guided tour on Sunday, September 14 at 5:30 p.m.
But curiosity won’t stop at the gallery doors – it will spill into the streets. Lively Neighborhoods will connect city districts through shared breakfasts, barbecues, folk flavors, and cake picnics. The festival will turn into a celebration of togetherness – one that smells, tastes, and feels like home.
At the same time, Sihoť Days will bring a colorful program full of music, dance, crafts, and good cheer for the whole family. Come enjoy traditions, modern entertainment, and neighborly encounters.
The Festival of Curiosity is for everyone – families with children, teenagers, seniors, and even those just passing through Trenčín. All you need to do is come and ask yourself:
