Autunno Medievale a Venzone
Edition 2026 Heritage Medieval Historical reenactment

Autunno Medievale a Venzone

The fortified village returns to the Middle Ages with parades, flag-wavers, and markets

Venzone — Udine (030)
Dates 01 Oct — 31 Oct 2026
Location Venzone (030)
Prices Free
Status —

About Autunno Medievale

Every autumn, the walled village of Venzone, one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy in the province of Udine, transforms into an open-air medieval set. Within the 13th-century walls, flag-wavers, drummers, and historical parades march, while craft markets and period taverns liven up alleys and squares. A weekend of reenactment and atmosphere that has taken up the legacy of the famous Pumpkin Festival.

A stone village that goes back in time

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.

Parades, flag-wavers, and taverns

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.

The legacy of the Pumpkin Festival

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.

Among Italy's most beautiful walls

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.

Autunno Medievale — edition 2026

The 2026 edition of Autunno Medievale is expected on a weekend in October in the walled village of Venzone, following the previous editions. The official dates will be announced by the organizers in the weeks leading up to the event.

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.

Programme Autunno Medievale 2026

The detailed program for the 2026 edition will be announced in the coming weeks.

Based on previous editions, the event includes:

  • Costumed historical parades through the walled village
  • Performances by flag-wavers and drummers
  • Craft market and stalls with local products along the streets
  • Workshops and entertainment for children and families
  • Themed refreshment points, including the Taverna del Gatto Nero

Highlights Autunno Medievale 2026

Historical parades and flag-wavers within the 13th-century walls, the atmosphere of the Taverna del Gatto Nero, and the craft market in the village.

Prices Autunno Medievale 2026

Admission to the village and event streets is generally free; food, drinks, and some activities are subject to payment.

Practical information — Autunno Medievale

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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Where does it take place — Autunno Medievale

Borgo medievale di Venzone

Autunno Medievale in brief

Heritage Medieval Historical reenactment Folk traditions Folklore Crafts Outdoor Multidisciplinary Udine

History of Autunno Medievale