Event Details
Volleyball on Water – A One-of-a-Kind Event in Ljubljana
On 10 and 11 July 2026, the heart of Ljubljana once again transforms into one of the world's most extraordinary sports venues. Volleyball on Water – powered by BIG BANG is the only international volleyball tournament in the world played on a floating court anchored in the middle of a city river. Novi trg and the Ljubljanica River become an open-air arena for sports fans, families and visitors from across Europe.
The Concept: Volleyball on a Floating LED Court
The centrepiece of the event is a floating volleyball court with LED line illumination, anchored in the middle of the Ljubljanica. After sunset, the court lights up in spectacular colours, turning the riverbank into one of Ljubljana's most striking summer backdrops. The partially submerged playing surface means that players landing after jumps or diving for saves go straight into the water, giving the tournament its unmistakable character.
Highlights 2026
- 4th edition of the tournament themed around the four elements: earth, fire, air and water
- International beach volleyball tournament with athletes from Europe, South America and Oceania
- Special guest Christian Sørum, reigning Olympic beach volleyball champion
- Tournament ambassadors: Slovenian national players Rok Možič and Alan Košenina
- Dance performances on the riverside choreographed by Miha Krušič
- Fan zone and VIP zone at Novi trg with live music and entertainment
- Diverse culinary offer along the riverbank
- Opportunities to meet members of the Slovenian national volleyball team
- Free admission for all spectators along the riverside
Tournament Format
The tournament follows official beach volleyball rules. In the modified group stage, the top-placed team advances directly to the semi-finals while second and third place meet in the quarter-finals. From the quarter-finals onwards, a pure single-elimination format applies through to the grand final. A total of 32 players compete in two-person teams across the women's and men's categories.
Getting There & Visitor Tips
- Novi trg is located in the heart of Ljubljana's Old Town and is easily reachable on foot.
- Arriving by bus or bicycle is recommended; the city centre has restrictions on private car traffic.
- The evening programme with the illuminated floating court begins after dark and is the most atmospheric highlight of the event.
- Admission is free; good spots along the riverbank are limited, so arrive early.
- Those who want to play on the floating court themselves can enter prize draws on the event's official Instagram channel.
