Asfaltart – International Street Art Festival

Asfaltart: The street becomes a stage in Merano

Every year in mid-June, the historic center of Merano turns into a grand open-air theater thanks to Asfaltart, the International Street Art Festival. Established in 2007, the event has become one of the most anticipated cultural highlights of this South Tyrolean spa town and the entire Province of Bolzano, in Trentino-Alto Adige. For three days, the streets, squares, and the famous promenades along the Passirio river host street artists who bring wonder, poetry, and laughter to the public.

A sprawling circus in the heart of the city

During Asfaltart, the pedestrian center of Merano comes alive with clowns, acrobats, fire-eaters, jugglers, tightrope walkers, dancers, and musicians. Performances take place from morning until night along a natural route connecting Thermenplatz, Sandplatz, and the Passirio Promenade, winding through the alleys of the old town. The audience wanders from square to square, discovering new acts at every corner: circus performances, walking acts with stilt walkers and unicyclists, clowning, concerts, and choreographies that engage both adults and children.

A free festival for everyone

One of Asfaltart's defining features is its free and inclusive nature: all shows are open to the public and designed for all ages. The organizers encourage spectators to support the artists with a voluntary contribution at the end of the performances, in keeping with the street art tradition. Alongside the makeshift stages, the promenades also feature areas dedicated to artistic crafts and local gastronomy, completing the experience with regional flavors and products.

Values and identity

Beyond the entertainment, Asfaltart carries a message of tolerance, sustainability, non-discrimination, and participation. The festival aims to make culture accessible to everyone in public spaces, turning the street into a meeting place for international artists and the local community. The setting of Merano, with its mild climate, Art Nouveau architecture, and gardens along the Passirio, provides the ideal backdrop for this celebration of popular art.

Discovering Merano and South Tyrol

Those visiting Merano for Asfaltart will discover one of the most fascinating locations in South Tyrol: a renowned spa town nestled between the vineyards and mountains of the Burgraviato, blending Central European culture with Mediterranean tradition. The festival is the perfect opportunity to combine street performance with exploring the region, including scenic walks, thermal baths, and South Tyrolean food and wine specialties.