Borgate in Festa - Heivilanfescht

The festival of the ancient hamlets

Borgate in Festa - Heivilanfescht is one of the most characteristic events in Sappada, a splendid Alpine resort in the Friulian Dolomites, in the province of Udine. In 2026, the festival reaches its 17th edition, once again bringing life to the wooden houses of the oldest part of the village, Sappada Antica, under the theme 'Scents, flavours, and crafts among the hamlets of Sappada Antica'.

The event takes place in the historic hamlets of Hoffe, Fontana, and Kratten, jewels of Alpine architecture that transform into an open-air museum during the festival, enlivened by artisans, flavours, and music.

Artisans at work and markets

The heart of the festival is craftsmanship: among the hamlets, you can watch artisans at work, from wood sculptors to blacksmiths, and visit the craft markets featuring typical local creations. An opportunity to rediscover ancient trades and traditions that are still very much alive in Sappada.

Flavours, children, and itinerant music

Along the route, there are plenty of food stalls with Sappada's culinary specialities, workshops for children, and itinerant musical performances, accompanying visitors from one hamlet to another in an atmosphere of celebration and community. The event is organized by Pro Loco Sappada together with the Gruppo Borgate in Festa.

Sappada, a linguistic island in the Dolomites

Sappada (Plodn, in the local dialect) is a historic Germanic linguistic island nestled in the Dolomites, on the border between Friuli, Veneto, and Cadore. Its Bavarian-origin dialect, wooden houses, and traditions make it a unique place. Experiencing Borgate in Festa means immersing yourself in this special identity, among the ancient hamlets, craftsmanship, and mountain flavours.