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In recent years, the Christmas lighting of Ljubljana, conceived by artist Zmago Modic, has been attracting visitors from Slovenia and abroad in December, which makes the city especially vibrant at this time of the year.

This year, the lighting decoration of the city is dubbed "Space Toys". Modic says the focal point is "intellect as a kind of a game which constantly changes direction from a line into an ellipse, from a circle into a line".

These shapes also imitate the movement of visitors who walk around the square, sometimes change direction, stop for a moment or even turn around.

The decoration of the city centre thus has a deeper meaning, though it emphasises the playfulness of the lights and the freedom of spirit.

One of the two big Christmas trees in the city centre also has special significance, being a present from the capital of the neighbouring Croatia and representing the two nations' friendship.

The nine-metre tree, located off the main Slovenska street, is adorned with over 200 candles and decorations symbolising Zagreb.

The lighting, though an attraction in itself, provides the backdrop for the Christmas market, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike in December.

This year 48 stalls along the river Ljubljanica will invoke the holiday spirit with mulled wine, freshly prepared food and unique gifts, mostly handicrafts.

Running until 1 January, the Christmas season in Ljubljana will feature a variety of events catering to various types of visitors, including St Nicholas' and Father Christmas parades, concerts by primary schools choirs, street theatre and creative workshops for children.

According to tradition, concerts by acclaimed singers and bands from Slovenia and Croatia will be held in the city centre squares, including on New Year's Eve, when celebrations culminate with a big fireworks from Ljubljana Castle.