Maribor’s legacy as a regional capital has left it well-endowed when it comes to cultural sites and events - a fact that hasn’t gone unnoticed, as it was named as one of the EU’s Capitals of Culture for 2012. Aside from the months of August and September, performances of opera, ballet and drama are held throughout the year at the stately National Theatre on Slomškov Square, while an even wider selection of musical, theatrical and children’s events take place at the equally splendid Cultural House near the river. The city also plays host to several major international events throughout the year, including the Maribor Festival (Sept), the Old Vine Festival, the Theatre Festival (Oct), Colourful December, and of course the Lent  Festival (June/July).