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 among the historic hamlets of Hoffe, Fontana and Kratten, jewels of Alpine architecture that during the festival transform into an open-air museum, 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 with typical local creations. An opportunity to rediscover ancient crafts and traditions that are still very much alive in Sappada.

Flavours, children and itinerant music

Along the route, there are food stalls with Sappada's culinary specialities, workshops for children, and itinerant musical performances, which accompany visitors from one hamlet to another in an atmosphere of celebration and community. The event is organised 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 among 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.