The summer festival of the Volunteer Fire Department in the heart of Val di Funes
The Bergerfest St. Magdalena is one of the most cherished popular festivals in the Val di Funes (Villnösser Tal), hosted by the Volunteer Fire Department (Freiwillige Feuerwehr) of St. Magdalena. It takes place in the hamlet of Santa Maddalena, within the Municipality of Funes/Villnöß, in the Province of Bolzano (Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol). For two evenings, the event brings the Bergerplatz, the small alpine village square, to life with an atmosphere of authentic South Tyrolean conviviality.
Like many mountain village festivals in South Tyrol, the Bergerfest began as a community meeting point and a way to support the activities of the volunteer firefighters, who are a cornerstone of local social life. The festival attracts both valley residents and the many tourists who visit Santa Maddalena in summer, a place world-renowned for its views of the Odle Group (Geislergruppe) peaks, a symbol of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites.
The heart of the Bergerfest is live music: over the two evenings, various bands and traditional Tyrolean dance groups perform, keeping the crowd entertained until late. The atmosphere is typical of South Tyrolean Dorffeste, where young and old gather to dance, enjoy a beer, and savor local dishes.
The culinary offerings, prepared by the volunteers, are a highlight: expect Tyrolean specialties, grilled meats, homemade desserts, and local beer and wine. Val di Funes is also a recognized Slow Food Travel destination, and the flavors of the region—from speck to mountain cheese—are an integral part of the festival experience.
Santa Maddalena, with its famous late-Gothic church overlooking the Odle, is one of the most photographed spots in the entire Alpine region. Attending the Bergerfest means experiencing the genuine hospitality of a small mountain village, immersed in one of the most evocative landscapes of Trentino-Alto Adige.
The Bergerfest St. Magdalena 2026 will take place on Friday, July 24, and Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Bergerplatz in Santa Maddalena, in the Municipality of Funes/Villnöß (Province of Bolzano). Both evenings begin at 6:30 PM.
On stage: Friday, the band Vollgas, and Saturday, the Tiroling Stones for an evening of dancing. As per tradition, the Volunteer Fire Department will run food stands featuring South Tyrolean specialties, beer, and wine. Free admission.
Santa Maddalena (St. Magdalena) is located at the end of Val di Funes, in the Municipality of Funes/Villnöß. By car: take the A22 Brenner motorway exit at Chiusa/Klausen, then follow the SP163 along the valley. By public transport: train to Bressanone/Brixen or Chiusa/Klausen, then take the local bus to Val di Funes.
The festival is held at the Bergerplatz in St. Magdalena, starting in the evening (approximately from 6:30 PM). Admission is free. Food and drinks are available for purchase on-site.
We recommend bringing clothing suitable for cool mountain evenings. There is a wide range of accommodation available in Val di Funes for those wishing to stay overnight and explore the valley and the Odle trails.
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Bergerplatz, St. Magdalena