The fortified village returns to the Middle Ages with parades, flag-wavers, and markets
Venzone doesn't need sets: its historic center, enclosed by a double 13th-century wall and rebuilt stone by stone after the 1976 earthquake, is already a time machine in itself. When the Autunno Medievale arrives, however, the Carnic village takes another step back: the alleys fill with artisan stalls, tavern scents, and the roll of drums, and for a weekend in October, visitors find themselves catapulted into the heart of the Middle Ages.
The heart of the event is the costumed historical parades that cross the village, accompanied by flag-wavers and drummers whose performances recall ancient chivalric rituals. Along the streets, a craft market unfolds with typical products, handicrafts, and curiosities, while workshops and entertainment for all ages involve families and children. A delicious focal point is the renowned Taverna del Gatto Nero, where you can enjoy medieval-inspired food immersed in the village atmosphere.
Autunno Medievale has taken up the baton from the historic Festa della Zucca (Pumpkin Festival), an event that for years had made Venzone famous throughout Friuli Venezia Giulia. After the difficulties that interrupted its organization, the community chose to focus decisively on medieval atmospheres, enhancing what truly makes the village unique: its identity as a fortified city.
Visiting Venzone during the event also means discovering a jewel of Friuli: the Cathedral of Sant'Andrea, the walls, the Gothic palaces, and the famous mummies preserved in the Chapel of San Michele. The Municipality of Venzone and the Pro Loco guide visitors on a journey that combines reenactment, taste, and heritage, in the heart of the province of Udine.
For the 2026 edition, the ingredients that have made the event famous are confirmed: costumed historical parades, flag-waver and drummer performances, a craft market along the alleys, workshops and entertainment for families, as well as period taverns. The precise date, expected in October, will be announced by the organizers; in 2025, the event took place on October 25th and 26th.
The detailed program for the 2026 edition will be announced in the coming weeks.
Based on previous editions, the event includes:
How to get there: Venzone is located along the SS13 Pontebbana state road, Carnia-Tolmezzo highway exit (A23). Venzone train station is on the Udine-Tarvisio line.
Admission: access to the village and the event streets is generally free; some activities and the tavern require payment for consumption.
Accommodation: lodging available in the village and in the municipalities of Val del Lago and Carnia.
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Borgo medievale di Venzone