Eischem Mert - Market Exhibition of Walser Handicrafts
The Walser handicraft market of Issime, in the heart of summer
About Eischem Mert
The Market of Issime
Eischem Mert — literally 'the market of Issime' in Töitschu, the local Walser language — is the handicraft exhibition and market in Issime, a municipality in the Province of Aosta in the Valle del Lys. It is held in the heart of summer, on the occasion of the patronal feast of San Giacomo, and attracts exhibitors and visitors to one of the most characteristic Walser enclaves in the Aosta Valley.
Mountain Handicrafts
At Parco d'Schoafumattu, artisans from the Aosta Valley and Canavese region gather to display the typical crafts of the alpine territory: objects made of wood, textiles, artefacts in stone, and ceramics. It is an opportunity to discover the traditional artistic crafts up close and to take home an authentic piece of mountain craftsmanship.
A Celebration by the Pro Loco
The event is organized by the Pro Loco of Issime and has reached over twenty editions (the twentieth was in 2024, the twenty-first in 2025). During the day, the Pro Loco manages the barbecue service for lunch and dinner under the pavilion in the square, making Eischem Mert not just a market but a true village festival, steeped in Walser culture and tradition.
Eischem Mert — edition 2026
The 22nd edition of Eischem Mert is expected in the summer of 2026, around the patronal feast of San Giacomo in late July. In 2025, the exhibition and market was held on two occasions (July 27th and August 24th). The exact dates for 2026 have not yet been published at the time of writing this description. The organization remains entrusted to the Pro Loco of Issime, which manages the exhibition of Aosta Valley and Canavese handicrafts at Parco d'Schoafumattu and the barbecue service for visitors.
Programme Eischem Mert 2026
The date and detailed program for the 2026 edition have not yet been published. The event typically follows this structure, based on previous editions:
- Market opening from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM at Parco d'Schoafumattu
- Exhibition of Aosta Valley and Canavese handicrafts: wood, textiles, stone, ceramics
- Barbecue service for lunch and dinner by the Pro Loco
Updates will be published by the Municipality of Issime and the Pro Loco ([email protected]).
Prices Eischem Mert 2026
Practical information — Eischem Mert
How to get there
Issime is located in the Valle del Lys, along the regional road that climbs from Pont-Saint-Martin towards Gressoney. It can be reached by car from the A5 motorway (Pont-Saint-Martin exit).
Opening hours and information
The market typically runs from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. For information: Pro Loco of Issime, [email protected]. Barbecue service provided by the Pro Loco.
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Where does it take place — Eischem Mert
Parco d'Schoafumattu, Issime
Parco d'Schoafumattu, 11020 Issime