Grape Festival of Maschito

A Vulture village celebrating its vine

In Maschito, an Arbëreshë village perched in the heart of the volcanic Vulture region, in the province of Potenza, the grape harvest is not just work in the fields: it is a collective celebration. Every September, the Grape Festival transforms the historic centre into an open-air stage where the entire community pays homage to the cultivation that has shaped the landscape and local economy, Aglianico del Vulture.

Allegorical floats, the heart of the festival

The most anticipated moment is the parade of allegorical floats, patiently built in the preceding weeks and covered with bunches, vines, and grape leaves. Each float depicts a scene from rural culture and the world of wine, parading through the village streets accompanied by figures in traditional dress. At the end of the procession, a jury awards the most beautiful float, in a friendly competition involving districts and groups of neighbours.

Wine, taste, and folk music

Along Via Marconi and the streets of the centre, food and wine stands open up, offering the chance to taste Lucanian delicacies paired with local Aglianico wine. In recent years, the event has been enhanced by collaboration with the National Association of Wine Cities and the Nights of Wine project, featuring round tables and masterclasses on Aglianico del Vulture led by sommeliers. The evening concludes with folk music concerts in the main square.

A recognized heritage

The Grape Festival of Maschito has been included in the list of intangible cultural heritage of the Basilicata Region, a recognition that highlights its identity value. Organized by the Berimbau Association with the support of the municipal administration, it is today one of the most cherished events of the Vulture's autumn food and wine calendar.