Cles Sports Festival

The Val di Non's premier sports festival

The Cles Sports Festival is one of the most anticipated summer events in Cles, the main town of Val di Non in the province of Trento (Trentino-Alto Adige). Since its inception in 1994, the event has grown to become a cornerstone of the Anaunia sports scene, marking its 32nd edition in 2025. The festival takes place at the CTL - Sports and Leisure Centre on Viale De Gasperi, a spacious facility in the Paludi area that transforms into a vibrant sports village for four days.

Four days of competitions and demonstrations

The program brings together over 35 local sports associations, showcasing athletes and enthusiasts of all ages. Throughout the event, visitors can enjoy a mix of amateur and professional competitions and open trials, including track and field, volleyball, basketball, tennis, cycling, climbing, martial arts, dance, and many others. A historic highlight is the Melinda Athletics Meeting, which reached its 34th edition in 2025.

Sport as a tool for inclusion

A distinctive feature of the festival is its focus on inclusion. The event hosts the GSH Sports Trophy, organized by the GSH Cooperative in collaboration with the Italian Paralympic Committee, a day entirely dedicated to people with disabilities. Sport is thus presented not merely as a competition, but as a vehicle for participation, socialization, and integration, reflecting the strong community spirit of the valley.

Beyond sports: music, dance, and gastronomy

In addition to sporting activities, the Cles Sports Festival offers a rich entertainment program: dance evenings featuring ballroom and group dancing, live shows, activities for children and families, and food stands serving traditional Trentino flavors. The blend of sport, music, and great food makes the event suitable for all ages, from the youngest to the oldest.

A community-driven event

The festival is organized by a dedicated committee with the support of the Cles municipal administration, the Pro Loco, and the local network of sports and volunteer associations. Admission is free, underscoring the festival's popular and inclusive nature, designed to promote physical activity and community life in Cles and the entire Val di Non.