Christmas in Alta Vallagarina — Missionary Market and Nativity Scene Exhibition in Besenello

Christmas in Besenello, in Vallagarina

Every winter, the village of Besenello, located in the province of Trento and overlooking the Adige Valley just a few kilometers south of the capital, dresses up for the holidays to host the Christmas events of Alta Vallagarina. The festival is part of the collective project "Christmas in Alta Vallagarina" (in 2025 united under the title "Lights and Notes of Hope"), an initiative that connects the four municipalities of Calliano, Besenello, Nomi, and Volano, offering shows, markets, concerts, and community moments throughout the Advent period and until Epiphany.

The Missionary Market

The heart of the Besenello event is the Missionary Market, organized by the Besenello Missionary Group. It is a charity market designed to support missionary and aid projects through the sale of handicrafts, decorations, and Christmas products made by volunteers. It is an opportunity to shop in the spirit of generosity and to soak in the most authentic atmosphere of village festivals, far from the large tourist crowds.

The Nativity Scene Exhibition

Throughout the streets and corners of the historic center of Besenello, the nativity scene exhibition takes shape: displays curated by local residents and associations that transform the village into an open-air trail to be discovered on foot. The tradition of nativity scenes is a key identity element of the entire Vallagarina, where neighboring municipalities also offer monumental nativity scenes that can be visited throughout the Christmas period.

Music, Traditions, and Families

The soundtrack of Christmas in Besenello is provided by the Zampognaro Lagaro, a cultural association from Vallagarina that uses bagpipes, traditional felt costumes, and sheepskin garments to bring music to the streets, squares, and religious events. The calendar is completed by cultural appointments and meetings designed for children and families, such as Christmas theatrical performances hosted in local venues during the holidays.

A Community Christmas in Trentino-Alto Adige

Sober, authentic, and deeply rooted in the community, Christmas in Besenello is an invitation to experience the holidays at a slower pace, amidst solidarity, tradition, and the winter landscapes of Vallagarina. Its location, a short distance from Rovereto and Trento, makes it a pleasant stop for those wishing to discover Christmas in Trentino away from the most crowded circuits.