On St. Stephen’s Day (December 26) and New Year’s Eve (December 31), the Upper Bohinj Valley will once again come alive with the traditional procession of Otepovci – masked carolers who bring the spirit of ancient holiday traditions. These groups of Otepovci, or “Šeme” as locals call them, dressed in special costumes, visit homes in the villages of Srednja Vas, Studor, Stara Fužina, Bohinjska Češnjica, and Jereka.

Through greetings, songs, and New Year’s wishes, they keep this unique custom alive. During their visits, locals show gratitude and hospitality by offering gifts such as sausages, eggs, drinks, or small change.

The Otepovci procession begins on December 26 in Stara Fužina and Studor, then continues on New Year’s Eve in Bohinjska Češnjica, Srednja vas, and Jereka, once again bringing good fortune and holiday cheer with them.