Volleyball on Water returns this coming July in Ljubljana

The fourth standalone edition of the popular Volleyball on Water – powered by Big Bang once again brings thrilling sports action, family-friendly entertainment in the fan zone, and artistic performances on the water - along with two major new features: the tournament is opening to the general public, and the franchise is ready to expand to rivers, lakes, and oceans around the world.

On Friday, July 10, and Saturday, July 11, the Ljubljanica River and the Novi trg riverbank will once again host what has become an essential summer highlight: Volleyball on Water – powered by Big Bang. The event combines active outdoor leisure “on air and water”, a love for sport, culture, entertainment, and environmental awareness. This year, it will finally fulfil the long-standing wish of many volleyball enthusiasts who have wanted to play on this iconic court, which exists only for a few days each year.

The floating court and stage are outlined with illuminated LED lines marking the playing field, creating a unique evening atmosphere where spectators feel as though they are watching players glide just above the water’s surface. This distinctive court design offers a truly spectacular visual experience.

In the fan zone, visitors will be able to participate in free water- and volleyball-themed activities, and after sunset, enjoy artistic performances on the water. In past editions, the event has featured dance performances by Miha Krušič (inspired by the Argonauts and the story of Urška and the Water Man), the acrobatic duo Acro Connection, Magic Aleksander’s show, and culinary experiences prepared by the Michelin-recognized Grič restaurant team. Visitors will be equally well taken care of this year.

“The biggest conceptual novelty this year is that we are opening the tournament to the general public,” explains Kristina Taja Grünfeld, project manager at Extrem, where the idea for this unique tournament was born. “Until now, participation was limited to invited teams of top international Beach Volleyball players. This year, for the first time, we are opening the doors to a wider community. We are looking for well-coordinated pairs skilled in Beach Volleyball who are ready for a new challenge – playing on water. Details about registration are available on our website, and the application deadline is May 23.”

“The second key innovation of this fourth standalone edition is the increased focus on international expansion,” she adds. “For several years, we have been working with partners to expand this unique event – which impresses players, spectators, and a global online audience in the millions – into a global franchise. After extensive coordination, we are now ready to expand abroad, as confirmed by our new website, which is already awaiting the reveal of its first additional location.”

Alan Košenina, VoW Event Ambassador 

Whenever possible, members of the national volleyball team attend the tournament, watch the finals, and engage with fans through autographs and photos. This is no coincidence – the event was originally created in support of the CEV EuroVolley 2019 in Ljubljana and continues to develop in cooperation with the Volleyball Federation of Slovenia.

Ambassador Alan Košenina is an integral part of the Volleyball on Water story – not only as a competitor but also as one of the key advocates of the event’s idea, energy, and unique concept. Throughout his career, he has achieved outstanding results in both indoor and Beach Volleyball, and with his dynamic performances at Volleyball on Water tournaments, he has become a fan favourite.

For further information, visit www.volleyballonwater.com