At the fourth EkoReka Festival, organised as part of the LIFE2RIVERS project, we invite children, families, local residents, and all nature enthusiasts to discover the natural environment of the Pšata River in a new, playful way. The Pšata and its surroundings are more than just a river flowing through the landscape. They are home to fish, birds, pollinators, aquatic creatures, plants, and to the many stories of the people who live along its banks.
The festival will take place on Saturday, 6 June 2026, from 9:00 to 18:00, on the meadow by the Pšata River in Mengeš. Children will be able to explore the popular fish trail, investigate life in the water, observe tiny aquatic organisms, take part in creative workshops, build bird feeders and fly‑fishing hooks, and learn about pollinators, fish, birds, plants, riparian habitats, and other hidden river inhabitants.
The programme is co‑created by various associations, organisations, and expert institutions.
Since the fish trail will be a wet and splashy adventure for the youngest visitors, children are encouraged to bring swimsuits and a towel. Parents, on the other hand, should bring plenty of good spirits, curiosity, and a bit of free time for relaxed moments by the river.
At 10:00, the musical atmosphere will be enriched by Uroš and Tjaša Steklasa, while the delicious festival treats will be prepared by Jure Kirbiš and Matic Maček, former contestants of the TV show MasterChef.
Parking will be available next to the Mengeš Cultural Centre. However, we encourage visitors to come on foot, by bicycle, or by public transport whenever possible.
EkoReka is an invitation to see the Pšata differently: as a living space that connects us, teaches us, and encourages us to care for nature together. Come explore, create, listen, taste, exchange ideas, and dive into the EkoReka experience.
You are warmly invited to join us on Saturday, 6 June 2026, from 9:00 to 18:00, on the meadow along the tree‑lined avenue in Športni park Mengeš.
ADMISSION IS FREE.
Inštitut REVIVO, National Institute of Biology (NIB), DOPPS – BirdLife Slovenia, Dinaricum, Čmrljica, RD Bistrica Domžale, BIODIVA, AIA Association, Sožitje Intermunicipal Association, Youth for Climate Justice, LiVe Reke Pesnice, and many other contributors.
The event is organised as part of the LIFE2RIVERS project, co‑funded by the European Union, the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Energy, and the Ministry of Public Administration of the Republic of Slovenia. Through the project, we aim—among other goals—to bring the Pšata River closer to local residents as a living, valuable, and shared space.
The Pšata is more than just a river – it is part of the everyday life, memories, and future of the people who live, work, and spend their free time along its banks. Local residents often know the area best: the changes in nature, the challenges we face, and the good practices worth preserving.
We invite you to join our co‑creative workshops, where we will reflect together on the future of the Pšata River and its tributaries. The purpose of the workshops is to gather your concrete observations, experiences, and suggestions, and to jointly explore opportunities to improve the quality of the environment and life in the Pšata River Basin.
The workshops are intended for all residents of the Pšata River Basin.
The workshops will be held in several municipalities within the Pšata River Basin, so you can join the one closest to your home:
Workshop duration: approximately 2 hours
The International congress »Life to rivers« will be devoted to identifying solutions for the conservation and restoration of rivers in the context of climatic, social, and environmental change. Particular attention will be given to recent advances in river restoration, the implementation of nature-based solutions (NbS), and the formulation of contemporary policies that shape future development.
Participants will receive the conference proceedings and have the opportunity to hear distinguished speakers present the latest findings and practical experiences. The event will also provide a platform for the exchange of knowledge and best practices, learning through interactive workshops, and relaxed informal socializing.