Ancient Festival of San Tomaso - Feast of Mountain Agricultural Traditions

An ancient festival revived in Agordino

The Ancient Festival of San Tomaso, now the Feast of Mountain Agricultural Traditions, takes place in Celat, a hamlet of San Tomaso Agordino, in the province of Belluno, in the heart of the Agordino Dolomites. Its origins date back to the 18th century – the tradition has been documented since 1738 – and it was revived by the APS Orti Rupestri Association after several decades of absence. It is typically held on the first weekend of September at Arena 1082.

Barley and beer from the Dolomites

The star of the festival is barley, one of the typical products of the UNESCO Dolomites, grown using traditional methods in the experimental garden of the Municipality of San Tomaso. This links it to craft beer from the mountains, which is the focus of tastings and demonstrations that explain the entire process, from sowing to table.

Agricultural traditions and livestock breeds

The festival is dedicated to safeguarding mountain agricultural heritage: the market of local products and crafts is complemented by an exhibition of traditional livestock breeds – such as the Agordina goat and Venetian poultry breeds – supported by Veneto Agricoltura, to protect endangered agricultural genetic resources.

Flavours of the Agordino mountains

The gastronomy offers dishes from Agordino Dolomite cuisine: among the specialties are fortaie, the typical artisanal fried pastries, and gnoch co la poina (gnocchi with smoked ricotta). An authentic opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditions of the mountain Veneto, far from mass tourist routes.