Aviano-Piancavallo International Folklore Festival

The World Dancing in Aviano

For over half a century, every August, Aviano becomes the Italian capital of international folklore. The Aviano-Piancavallo International Folklore Festival, founded in 1968, brings traditional dance and music groups from all continents to Friuli, in a grand celebration of colours, costumes, and rhythms that spans the Pordenone and Carnia regions.

A History Spanning Over Fifty Years

Initially modest with only Italian groups, by the third edition the festival had already opened up to the world. Since then, approximately 340 folklore groups representing about fifty nations have performed, totaling around ten thousand participants. Over the years, groups from India, Puerto Rico, Latvia, Taiwan, and many other countries have graced the festival's stages, bringing their most authentic traditions to Aviano.

A Festival Spread Across the Territory

The heart of the event is Piazza Duomo in Aviano, but the performances extend to numerous locations: Pordenone, Spilimbergo, Barcis, Sacile, Montereale Valcellina, Villa Manin, and the ski resort of Piancavallo. Guest groups stay for over ten days, welcomed by about a hundred volunteers who manage hospitality and the program.

A Message of Brotherhood

More than a showcase of performances, the festival carries a message of brotherhood and tolerance among peoples. Recognized in the global calendar of CIOFF (an organization affiliated with UNESCO), it complements the shows with cultural exhibitions, meetings, and charitable initiatives, such as the sale of friendship dolls to support UNICEF vaccinations. Organized by Pro Loco Aviano APS together with the Federico Angelica Folk Group, it is an unmissable event of the Friulian summer.