In 2026, we sowed sunflowers in 14 municipalities across Slovenia and distributed a total of 150 kilograms of sunflower seeds.
Project partner:
A project recognised across Europe
Sowing a Sunny Tomorrow is recognised not only within local communities along Slovenia’s railway corridors, but also at the European level.
In December 2025, the campaign received the award for Best National Green Campaign in Europe as part of the Rail Tourism Awards, presented by the European Travel Commission (ETC).
In January 2026, the project was also featured at the European Parliament in Brussels as part of the “Tourism for Europe, Europe for Tourism” exhibition, among selected examples of sustainable and regenerative practices from across Europe.
Today, the project is part of the Tourism for Europe platform, which brings together inspiring stories and best practices in sustainable development from across Europe.
Sowing a sunny tomorrow with top athletes
This year’s campaign was joined by numerous top Slovenian athletes who, together with children, municipalities, and local communities, sowed sunflowers and supported the message of sustainable mobility and environmental responsibility.
Among them were:
2026
🌻 Domžale (20. 5. 2026)
The first symbolic sunflower sowing of this year, as part of the Sowing a Sunny Tomorrow initiative, took place at the railway station in Domžale. The event was attended by pupils from Venclja Perka Primary School in Domžale, the Mayor, Renata Kosec, Olympian Maruša Mišmaš Zrimšek, and representatives of Slovenian Railways.
Children added a special touch to the event with singing, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Maruša Mišmaš Zrimšek attended the event together with her son, who is a great enthusiast of trains. She noted that their family lives near a railway station and therefore frequently chooses the train as a mode of transport.
Mayor Renata Kosec highlighted the importance of linking sustainable practices with the local environment and expressed her enthusiasm about Domžale joining the project for the first time this year. Sunflowers planted near the railway station will serve as a symbol of sustainability, connection, and care for nature.
🌻 Grosuplje (20. 5. 2026)
In Grosuplje, where the story of sunflower sowing along the railway line first began three years ago, we once again joined forces with the Municipality of Grosuplje to sow sunflower seeds near the railway and bus station.
The event was attended by pupils from Louisa Adamiča Primary School in Grosuplje, the Mayor, Dr Peter Verlič, Women’s Chess Grandmaster Laura Unuk, and representatives of Slovenian Railways. On this occasion, the children performed the song “Sijaj, sijaj sončece” and, with their energy, added a special touch to the event.
Mayor Dr Peter Verlič highlighted the importance of caring for nature and bees, as well as sustainable mobility, emphasising that people can choose the train or bus more often instead of travelling by car.
At the event, Laura Unuk said:
“It is truly wonderful to see the entire community – municipalities, organisations, and individuals – coming together and sowing a sunny tomorrow.”
Today, sunflowers near the railway station represent one of the most beautiful examples of how local communities and the railway can come together, symbolising a sustainable future and strong connections.
🌻 Ivančna Gorica (20. 5. 2026)
In Ivančna Gorica, the symbolic sunflower sowing took place next to the new overpass above the railway line. The event brought together pupils from the beekeeping club of Stična Primary School, students from Josip Jurčič Secondary School Ivančna Gorica, members of the Stična Beekeeping Association and the Krka-Zagradec Beekeeping Association, Director of the Prijetno domače Institute Maja Lampret, Headteacher of Stična Primary School Marjan Potokar, Director of the Municipal Administration Dr Andrejka Miše Glavič, Mayor Dušan Strnad, top athlete Mitja Petkovšek, and representatives of Slovenian Railways.
The event was further enriched by Višnja, the mascot of the Hiša kranjske čebele, while pupils prepared recitations, musical performances, and short presentations about bees, sunflowers, and the importance of nature.
Mayor Dušan Strnad highlighted the importance of cooperation and a responsible attitude towards the environment:
“This is primarily a symbolic gesture and an example to others of how we should treat nature, the environment, bees, and the people who live here.”
Mitja Petkovšek, one of Slovenia’s most successful athletes, who also has a strong connection to Ivančna Gorica, further inspired young participants with his presence. In his view, the project brings together physical activity, a healthy lifestyle, and care for the future.
This year as well, sunflowers along the railway line will symbolise cooperation, community, and a sustainable future.
🌻 Sevnica (22. 5. 2026)
In Sevnica, sunflowers were sown in a sports park overlooking Sevnica Castle, together with pupils and teachers from Primary School Sava Kladnika Sevnica, members of the Sevnica Handball Club, and representatives of the Municipality of Sevnica and Slovenian Railways.
Deputy Mayor Janez Kukec, who is temporarily serving as Mayor and is also a keen advocate of beekeeping, highlighted the importance of honey plants and thoughtfully chosen locations:
“We were pleased to join this initiative of planting honey plants. We made an effort to find a pleasant space where sunflowers will also enhance the appearance of the sports park.”
Young handball players from the Sevnica Handball Club also shared their perspective on sustainable mobility. Lucija Sotošek explained that many players travel to school and university by train every day, which allows them to use their travel time productively, including for training preparation. She also noted that the youngest club members were particularly excited about travelling on the Santa Claus train with a steam locomotive.
The event was enriched by musical and recitation performances by pupils from Primary School Sava Kladnika Sevnica. Afterwards, sunflower seeds were sown together and will bloom along the railway line in summer as a symbol of connection, sustainability, and community.
🌻 Laško (22. 5. 2026)
In Laško, sunflowers were sown together with pupils from Primož Trubar Primary School Laško, including the Vrh nad Laškim branch of the school, members of the beekeeping association, and representatives of the Municipality of Laško and Slovenian Railways.
The event was enriched by performances of the folk songs “Preljubi Šent Lenart” and “Lepo je pomlad na svet”, as well as accordion performances by pupils Lia Gotar and Nejc Župančič, under the guidance of Aleksandra Potisk. The warm, sunlit atmosphere gave the event a special sense of connection.
Deputy Mayor Enej Kirn emphasised:
“We are very pleased that this initiative is taking place in our municipality for the second consecutive year. We would like to thank Slovenian Railways for returning to Laško. We hope that this event will become a tradition in the years to come.”
Members of the beekeeping association, led by Polonca Krašovec, also took part in the sowing. This year as well, sunflowers along the railway line will symbolise cooperation, community, care for nature, and a sustainable future.
🌻 Divača (25. 5. 2026)
In Divača, one of Slovenia’s key railway hubs, sunflowers were sown along the railway line in cooperation with the Municipality of Divača as part of the Sowing a Sunny Tomorrow initiative. This year’s collaboration carries additional symbolic value, as it also marks the 150th anniversary of the Istrian railway line between Divača and Pula.
The event brought together pupils from Dr Bogomir Magajna Primary School Divača, Mayor Alenka Štruc Dovgan, representatives of Slovenian Railways, and members of the local community. The children prepared a heartfelt cultural programme, including singing and recitations of poems by Srečko Kosovel, adding warmth and youthful energy to the event.
Estera Lah Poljak, Head of Marketing at Slovenian Railways, highlighted the importance of Divača within Slovenia’s railway network:
“Many people first think of the railway when Divača is mentioned. This makes the occasion even more significant, as we celebrate 150 years of the Istrian railway line between Divača and Pula.”
Mayor Alenka Štruc Dovgan added:
“Our municipality developed because of the railway and continues to live with it today. With their brightness and positive energy, sunflowers will enhance views from the train.”
Sunflowers sown this year will once again symbolise cooperation, community, care for nature, and a sustainable future.
🌻 Šmartno ob Paki (2. 6. 2026)
On Railway Day, when we also mark 180 years since the arrival of the first train to Slovenian territory, Slovenian Railways continued the Sowing a Sunny Tomorrow initiative in Šmartno ob Paki.
Sunflowers along the railway line were sown by representatives of the municipality, pupils from the Letonja Brothers Primary School Šmartno ob Paki, and young accordion players, who enhanced the event with music and a pleasant atmosphere.
Tanja Rotovnik, MSc, Director of the Marketing, Communications and International Relations Division at Slovenian Railways, emphasised that the Municipality of Šmartno ob Paki, through its connection with nature and its commitment to sustainability, creates a high quality of life for both residents and visitors.
Mayor Janko Kopušar highlighted the importance of small actions:
“We are a small municipality and may not be able to take big steps, but even small steps can take us far. Today’s sunflower sowing is another step towards sustainability and living in harmony with nature.”
The event was also attended by former alpine skier and Olympian Ana Drev, who shared her experiences of travelling to secondary school in Celje by train with pupils:
“On the train, I most often used the time to study, and I always arrived on time.”
🌻 Celje (2. 6. 2026)
180 years ago, the first train arrived in Celje. Today, along the railway line, we are sowing a sunny tomorrow.
On 2 June 1846, the first train arrived in Celje, marking the beginning of railway transport on Slovenian territory. On the 180th anniversary of this important historical event, Slovenian Railways, together with the City Municipality of Celje, continued the Sowing a Sunny Tomorrow initiative.
Sunflowers along the railway line were sown by pupils from Lava Primary School, young football players from NK Celje, and representatives of the City Municipality of Celje, Zelenice, and Slovenian Railways.
Deputy Mayor Simon Jevšenek emphasised the importance of projects that bring people together and spread messages of responsibility and shared care for the environment:
“We are particularly pleased to support projects that connect people and, through a shared message, reach an even wider community.”
Estera Lah Poljak, Head of Marketing at Slovenian Railways, highlighted that the arrival of the railway in Celje represented a major milestone in development:
“The railway connected places and people and opened new paths for development. Even today, the train remains an important sustainable mode of transport and a link between communities.”
🌻 Kočevje (8. 6. 2026)
In Kočevje, sunflowers were sown together with children from the Čebelica Kindergarten, representatives of the Municipality of Kočevje, the Kočevje Beekeeping Association, and Slovenian Railways.
Estera Lah Poljak from Slovenian Railways expressed her satisfaction that the Municipality of Kočevje has joined the project and recognised its value in bringing people together and promoting sustainability.
Mayor Gregor Košir highlighted the importance of sustainable mobility and rail transport, noting that in Kočevje they had waited almost 50 years for the return of the train.
He emphasised the municipality’s aim of increasing the use of public transport, reducing car traffic, and strengthening the links between rail, cycling, and walking. In his view, rail transport is one of the most efficient and environmentally friendly forms of transport and should be further encouraged in the future.
Jurij Majerle, President of the Kočevje Beekeeping Association, thanked Slovenian Railways for the initiative and highlighted the importance of planting honey plants for bees and other pollinators. He also pointed out the long-standing cooperation between beekeepers and the municipality in promoting planting that contributes to a richer environment for pollinators.
The event was enriched by songs and recitations performed by children from the Čebelica Kindergarten, who, with their playfulness and enthusiasm, brought a morning dedicated to a sustainable future to a warm close.
🌻 Medvode (9. 6. 2026)
MEDVODE (9 June 2026)
In Medvode, sunflowers were sown together with the Municipality of Medvode, children from the Medvode Kindergarten, and Slovenian judoka Maruša Štangar.
Deputy Mayor Mojca Murnik emphasised the importance of ensuring that the project continues in the future, as the youngest participants carry important messages about respect for nature and sustainable development.
She also expressed the hope that some of the children taking part in such initiatives today will one day help shape decisions for a more sustainable and nature-friendly future.
A special role was played by children from the Medvode Kindergarten, who not only took part in the sowing but also helped prepare the soil for the sunflowers using shovels and rakes. With their dedication and curiosity, they showed that a connection with nature begins at an early age.
The project was also supported by Slovenian judoka Maruša Štangar, who shared her experiences with gardening and home-grown produce. She explained that she is already enjoying some of the harvest from her home garden, while other crops will take a little longer to grow.
🌻 Ljubljana (9. 6. 2026)
In Ljubljana, sunflowers were sown together with the City Municipality of Ljubljana, children from Hans Christian Andersen Kindergarten, a representative of the Api Kindergarten and School Network, Apis Retis, and ice hockey players from Hockey Club Olimpija Ljubljana.
Lea Stojanović, Head of the Rural Development Department at the City Municipality of Ljubljana, highlighted that the project represents an excellent opportunity to connect rural areas, sustainable development, and the education of the youngest.
Nina Ilić, Coordinator of the Api Kindergarten and School Network, Apis Retis, presented the children’s work within the Api kindergarten programme, where they learn about the importance of pollinators and coexisting with nature. The children demonstrated their knowledge of bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and other pollinators, and performed the song “Od cveta do cveta”.
She emphasised that children are our bright future and that, together with nature, we are building the foundations for healthy and responsible coexistence.
The event was also joined by some of Slovenia’s most recognisable ice hockey players and members of Hockey Club Olimpija Ljubljana – Žiga Jeglič, Blaž Gregorc, Jan Urbas, and Žiga Pance – who sowed sunflowers together with the children and supported the project.
🌻 Dravograd (11. 6. 2026)
In Dravograd, sunflowers were sown together with pupils from Šentjanž pri Dravogradu Primary School, representatives of the Municipality of Dravograd, the Dravograd Beekeeping Association, and Slovenian Railways.
The pupils prepared a lively folklore performance, recitations, and musical performances on the accordion, trumpet, and flute, filling the event with an authentic Carinthian atmosphere.
Mayor Anton Preksavec highlighted the importance of sustainable mobility and emphasised the Carinthian railway line, which has been part of everyday life in the local community for more than 150 years. He also expressed his wish for its continued renewal and development.
Miran Kadiš, President of the Dravograd Beekeeping Association, highlighted the importance of planting honey plants for bees and other pollinators, as well as the importance of joint efforts to preserve nature.
The event showed how cooperation between the municipality, schools, beekeepers, and the local community contributes to promoting sustainable values and care for the environment.
🌻 Velenje (11. 6. 2026)
In Velenje, sunflowers were sown together with pupils from Anton Aškerc Primary School Velenje, representatives of the City Municipality of Velenje, athletes, and Slovenian Railways.
The pupils prepared a wonderful programme of dances and songs and, with their energy, created a warm and sunlit atmosphere.
Mayor Peter Dermol emphasised that sunflowers symbolise youth, energy, sunshine, and optimism, which are reflected in the young people of Velenje. He also highlighted the symbolic value of this year’s sowing location, as the sunflowers will grow between Velenje Castle and Šalek Castle.
The project was also supported by Olympian and former Slovenian national team handball player Matevž Skok, who shared his memories of travelling by train with young people. He also highlighted the importance of connecting sport, culture, and the local community.
This year as well, sunflowers along the railway line will symbolise connection, cooperation, and shared care for a sustainable future.
🌻 Ormož (13. 6. 2026)
In Osluševci, in the Municipality of Ormož, sunflowers were sown as part of the Sowing a Sunny Tomorrow initiative, marking in a special way the 100th anniversary of the Osluševci railway halt.
The event brought together railway heritage, the local community, and a vision for the future. A ceremonial atmosphere was provided by the Slovenian Railways Brass Band from Zidani Most, which accompanied the celebration of this important local and railway anniversary.
On this occasion, special recognition was given to the people who have been preserving the railway heritage of Osluševci for many years. Nina Avbelj Lekić, Executive Director at Slovenian Railways, expressed her gratitude to the members of the Prlekija Railway Society, who have brought new life to the former station building and preserved an important part of railway history for future generations.
Mayor Danijel Vrbnjak emphasised that the Osluševci halt represents an important part of the area’s history and identity. He expressed his pride in the people and projects that preserve this heritage and present it to new generations, and highlighted the importance of cooperation in creating stories that enrich the local community.
The event concluded with a symbolic sunflower sowing and the presentation of a wooden sunflower, the symbol of the Sowing a Sunny Tomorrow initiative. On this occasion, the Mayor expressed his gratitude to Slovenian Railways for their partnership, support for sustainable projects, and the many shared stories.
The wooden sunflower will hold a special place as a reminder of cooperation and joint efforts for future generations. Through the sowing of sunflowers in Osluševci, we connected a century of railway heritage with a sunny tomorrow, once again highlighting the importance of cooperation, preserving heritage, and the sustainable development of the local environment.
2025
🌻 Grosuplje (20. 5. 2025)
The event at the railway station was opened by Mayor Peter Verlič, joined by children from Kekec Kindergarten, representatives of Slovenian Railways, and other participants. A warm and welcoming atmosphere reflected the spirit of connection at the heart of the project.
Mayor Verlič welcomed the fact that the idea of sunflower fields is spreading:
“I am very pleased that the idea has taken hold. We noticed a meadow that seemed to invite us to do something with it, so we decided to plant sunflowers. They are beautiful, sun-loving plants that turn towards the sun and naturally symbolise a clean, green, and vibrant living environment.”
Grosuplje also recognised the added value of the location itself – right next to the railway line:
“As trains passed by, offering views of the sunflowers, Slovenian Railways immediately recognised the potential. Today, this idea of sunflowers is spreading across Slovenia, and I am truly pleased about that.”
🌻 Ivančna Gorica (20. 5. 2025)
In Ivančna Gorica, sunflowers were sown next to the new overpass above the railway line. The event brought together numerous participants, including representatives of Slovenian Railways and the Municipality of Ivančna Gorica, beekeepers from the Stična Beekeeping Association and the Krka-Zagradec Beekeeping Association, pupils from Stična Primary School, who learn about the importance of bees as part of a school club, as well as the Prijetno domače Institute, accompanied by Višnja, the mascot of the Hiša kranjske čebele.
Mayor Dušan Strnad emphasised the importance of cooperation:
“This is the best example of how the local community and Slovenian Railways can come together for the common good. For many years, we have been encouraging people to plant honey plants – if each of us plants just one every year, it represents a significant contribution. This is not only important for the environment, but also for raising awareness of the vital role of bees in our lives.”
Younger generations also play a key role: “It is important that we pass on knowledge and awareness of the importance of bees to younger generations. Young people, who will take responsibility for society in the future, must lead by example and have the knowledge. Our beekeepers and everyone working in the municipality are committed to ensuring that this message lives on.”
🌻 Ormož (26. 5. 2025)
Together with the Municipality of Ormož, the Erhatič Farm, the Prlekija Railway Society, the Podgorci Kindergarten and Primary School, and the Podgorci Tourism Association, we hand-sowed sunflower seeds along the railway line in Osluševci.
The sowing was carried out in a traditional way – using a wooden marker, a traditional wooden tool. Under the guidance of Janko Erhatič from the Erhatič Farm, who also maintains the garden, children sowed seeds over an area of approximately 300 square metres, which, as vividly described by Franc Zemljič, President of the Prlekija Railway Society, corresponds to the length of six railway wagons.
Mayor Danijel Vrbnjak emphasised: “In Ormož, we have the highest number of sunny days in Slovenia, so it is only natural that we sow sunflowers. Today’s event is not just about planting flowers, but about bringing people together. These are the kinds of projects that build communities.”
The event also carries special symbolism, as members of the Prlekija Railway Society are also beekeepers. Some time ago, they began building an apiary through which they preserve the tradition of railway beekeepers. The sowing of sunflowers is therefore a natural continuation of their green vision, aligned with the development of tourism in the Municipality of Ormož, where the destination Jeruzalem Slovenia has for several years been ranked among the 100 greenest destinations in the world.
🌻 Dol pri Ljubljani (28. 5. 2025)
At the recently renovated Laze railway station, which offers passengers a modern and accessible space, Slovenian Railways, together with the Municipality of Dol pri Ljubljani, the Dolsko Beekeeping Association, residents of Laz, Scouts from the Dol–Dolsko 1, the Dolsko Tourism Association, and local children, planted a garden that will delight not only pollinators but also passengers travelling along the railway line.
Each participant contributed a small part to a story that will bloom along the railway line in summer. Deputy Mayor Nika Rovšek, MSc, emphasised the symbolic meaning of the event: “Today’s event carries strong symbolism. Together with Slovenian Railways, we are sowing a sunny tomorrow. Sunflowers will provide an important source of forage for bees exactly when they need it most, while also offering passengers a more beautiful view of our municipality.”
“The train was once the first window to the world more than 150 years ago. Now, that window will be adorned with sunflowers, reminding us that we are sowing the future together.”
Aleš Šuštar, President of the Dolsko Beekeeping Association, added: “This gesture means a great deal to us beekeepers. We should not forget that Slovenia is home to more than 600 species of pollinators, all of which are vital for maintaining the natural balance.”
As a final gesture, the Deputy Mayor presented a traditional braided bread as a token of appreciation to all who contributed: “For festive occasions in rural areas, braided bread has always been present. It once served as a way of expressing gratitude and connection. Today, we symbolically share it with everyone who contributed to this special moment.”
🌻 Velenje (29. 5. 2025)
In Velenje, together with the City Municipality and pupils from Livada Primary School, we sowed a 400-metre stretch of sunflowers. They will bloom in September, when the city celebrates its municipal holiday and European Mobility Week.
Deputy Mayor Aleksandra Vasiljević emphasised: “The sunflower is our municipal flower, reflecting the colours of the Velenje flag. Its many petals, connected as a whole, symbolise a community in which every individual matters.”
With a musical programme, the pupils added youthful energy and warmth to the event, which builds bridges between generations, places, and nature.
🌻 Šmartno ob Paki (29. 5. 2025)
In Šmartno ob Paki, the event was opened by children from Sonček Kindergarten with folk dances. Slovenian Railways highlighted an important message: “We can write values on posters, but it is actions that truly matter. Cooperation, connection, and care for nature – this is the message we are sowing together.”
Mayor Janko Kopušar reflected on the long-standing connection with the railway: “Sunflowers along the railway line will add something beautiful to our surroundings and to passengers’ journeys. The railway has always connected us to the world and now also serves as a symbol of sustainability. Franc Šmerc from a beekeeping family also joined the event, recalling a time when bees were transported to Vojvodina for pollination, whereas today sunflowers bring pollinators closer to home.”
The event was further enriched by inspiring stories shared by painter Jože Napotnik and Marjan Knez from the Association of Pensioners.
🌻 Ljubljana (4. 6. 2025)
In Ljubljana, we sowed a sunny tomorrow together with Maruška Markovčič from the Environmental Protection Department of the City Municipality of Ljubljana, the founder of the Bee Path initiative, which for the past ten years has been bringing together like-minded people dedicated to caring for bees in the city and collaborating with various partners.
Maruška Markovčič said: “We are delighted to be part of this initiative, as it beautifully complements the 10th anniversary of the Bee Path. Since 2015, we have been protecting bees and pollinators, raising awareness among residents, and educating the youngest through the Api kindergarten programme. I am especially pleased that in autumn we will be able to harvest the fruits of today’s sunflower sowing together with children.”
Aleš Sussinger, President of the Barje Beekeeping Association and Vice-President of the Beekeeping Association of Slovenia, added: “Ljubljana is a city friendly to bees. Within the ring road alone, there are around 800 beehives, which means approximately 40 million bees. Every sunflower, every flower, makes a difference – for bees and for other pollinators.”
🌻 Medvode (4. 6. 2025)
In Medvode, we stopped at one of the areas prepared by the municipality for sunflower sowing. We were warmly welcomed by Deputy Mayor Leon Merjasec and his colleagues.
Deputy Mayor Merjasec said: “We are delighted that the Municipality of Medvode has joined this wonderful project. Sunflowers will become a beautiful symbol of sustainability and joint efforts, especially as I am also a beekeeper and understand how valuable honey plants are for pollinators. On behalf of the Medvode Beekeeping Association, I would also like to sincerely thank everyone involved for their support.”
At the event, Slovenian Railways expressed their appreciation that the Municipality of Medvode is actively developing sustainable initiatives, from supporting pollinators to improving micromobility through cycling. We are also pleased that, together with the state and Nomago, additional cycling hubs and the introduction of electric bikes have been made possible. These measures help create the conditions for a truly vibrant and sustainable environment, including sustainable mobility.
🌻 Bohinj (9. 6. 2025)
Along the Bohinj railway line, we sowed sunflowers and, with them, the values that connect people, places, and the future.
As part of the Sowing a Sunny Tomorrow initiative, we sowed sunflowers together with the Mayor of the Municipality of Bohinj, Jože Sodja, the Director of Tourism Bohinj, Klemen Langus, and the local community along the railway line, as a symbol of a shared journey towards a greener future.
Mayor Jože Sodja emphasised that the railway in Bohinj is not merely infrastructure, but a vital connection to the region and the wider world. For more than a century, the Bohinj railway line has been the lifeline of the area and today also represents an opportunity to reduce environmental pressures. He highlighted the importance of linking tourism and public transport, as the municipality aims to encourage as many visitors and cyclists as possible to choose the train, thereby improving the quality of life for local residents.
Klemen Langus, Director of the Tourism Bohinj Green Movement, added that Bohinj would not be as recognisable a destination today without the Bohinj railway line. Throughout history, the railway has shaped the landscape and is closely connected to the identity of the Julian Alps. He also noted that the sunflower sowing project symbolically strengthens cooperation between municipalities, tourism organisations, and Slovenian Railways, and serves as a foundation for developing sustainable and inclusive tourism that respects the environment and improves the quality of life of the local community.
Children enthusiastically and proudly hand-sowed sunflowers along the railway line. Their smiles and dedication were the most powerful reminder of why we are sowing a sunny tomorrow.
🌻 Celje (10. 6. 2025)
Along the railway line and near the site of the future Celje Passenger Centre, we sowed sunflowers together with Deputy Mayor Simon Jevšenek, the Director of the public company Zelenice, Jože Krulec, and children from the Hiša otrok Montessori.
Deputy Mayor Jevšenek highlighted support for projects that contribute to a sustainable environment and emphasised the importance of cooperation with Slovenian Railways in the development of the future Celje Passenger Centre.
Jože Krulec, Director of the public company Zelenice and also a beekeeper, added: “Anything that benefits bees is welcome.”
At the same time, the idea of establishing another sunflower field in the future also emerged. The event was further enriched by the children, who performed songs accompanied by guitar and sowed sunflowers with great enthusiasm and dedication.
🌻 Laško (10. 6. 2025)
The closing event of the sunflower journey was the most well attended, with more than 100 children from Primož Trubar Primary School Laško helping with the sowing and enriching the day with songs and music, creating a particularly warm atmosphere.
Mayor Marko Šantej highlighted the long-standing connection between the municipality and the railway, from the construction of the Southern Railway, which contributed to the discovery of thermal springs and the development of spa tourism, to today’s cooperation: “If Laško is a place friendly to bees, it is also a place of beer and flowers. We are therefore delighted to be sowing sunflowers together with Slovenian Railways, who are also a partner of the upcoming Beer and Flowers Festival, symbolically marking the occasion.”
Franci Šolar, President of the Laško Beekeeping Association, added: “Initiatives like this are crucial for the future of bees – let them buzz!”
Thank you to everyone who is helping us shape the story of a sustainable Slovenia.
At Slovenian Railways, we remain committed to sustainable mobility, the development of public transport, and cooperation with local communities. Travel is more than simply reaching a destination. It is an opportunity to connect communities, preserve nature, and grow together.
