AssaporArte

AssaporArte: The flavors and traditions of Monte Bondone

AssaporArte is a food and folk tradition festival that brings the village of Garniga Terme to life every autumn. Nestled on the slopes of Monte Bondone in the province of Trento (Trentino-Alto Adige), the entire historic center transforms for a day into an open-air path where gourmet markets, craft workshops, live music, and activities for all ages offer an authentic glimpse into mountain culture.

The Smalgada de Garniga: The heart of the festival

The most anticipated moment is the Smalgada de Garniga, the traditional parade celebrating the return of livestock from high-altitude pastures at the end of the summer season. The herds descend into the village, festively adorned, and are welcomed by the community with music and dancing—a ritual that bridges generations and preserves the memory of the Alpine farming and pastoral heritage.

Gourmet market and workshops

The streets and squares of the village host a gourmet market featuring local producers and their specialties: wines, spirits, mountain-pasture cheeses, cured meats, honey, and jams. Various food stalls, managed by local associations, offer traditional dishes throughout the day, such as polenta concia.

A significant portion of the event is dedicated to live workshops, where the public can discover the crafts and knowledge of the past:

• the production of craft beer from grains;
• the preparation of lucanica trentina sausage and cured meats;
• cheesemaking and the production of mountain-pasture cheese.

The Garniga Terme potato

The village's signature product is the Garniga Terme potato, grown on mountain terraces and celebrated during the festival as a symbol of resilient, high-altitude agriculture. The local produce is the star of tastings, show-cooking sessions, and farm-to-table offerings.

An event for families

AssaporArte is designed with children in mind: a treasure hunt runs through the village all morning, accompanied by creative workshops, face painting, and entertainment. A dedicated area showcases arts and crafts, with artisans demonstrating their skills to the public.

Organizers

The event is promoted by the Pro Loco of Garniga Terme APS in collaboration with the Municipality and local associations—including the Alpini group, volunteer firefighters, the drama club, and the senior citizens' circle—with the support of the APT Trento, Monte Bondone, Valle dei Laghi tourist board. It is a collective effort that makes AssaporArte one of the defining festivals of Monte Bondone.