Kastelbell Garden and Gourmet Market

A spring market in the heart of the Vinschgau Valley

The Garten- und Genussmarkt is the spring event that brings the center of Castelbello (Kastelbell) to life, located in the municipality of Castelbello-Ciardes/Kastelbell-Tschars, in the Vinschgau Valley (Province of Bolzano, South Tyrol). Organized by the local tourist board (Tourismusverein Kastelbell-Tschars), the market combines two of the town's passions into one day: gardening and a love for the valley's authentic products. The event takes place in the Dorfzentrum, the town center, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

The Gourmet Island and valley produce

The heart of the festival is the so-called Genussinsel, or "Gourmet Island," set up in the town's multi-level parking area. Here, local producers offer Vinschgau Valley specialties: fine wines, speck, cured meats, cheeses, honey, spirits, juices, and the renowned Castelbello asparagus, which reaches its peak season at this time. There is also no shortage of South Tyrolean craft beer produced in the valley. Alongside the food stalls, local artisans display their work: wood carving and turning, woven baskets, ceramics, bags, decorations, and floral arrangements.

Gardening, plants, and expert advice

As the name suggests, the market reserves plenty of space for the world of gardening. Stalls offer plants, flowers, bulbs, seeds, and tools, while one of the most anticipated events is the plant exchange market: visitors can bring labeled plants, bulbs, and cuttings to swap with other enthusiasts. During the morning, short lectures and consultations with a gardening expert are scheduled, covering topics such as natural soil care, climate-appropriate plants, pest control, and seasonal trends.

Music, tradition, and family programming

The day is accompanied by music and local traditions: the Castelbello brass band, horn players, and the Goaslschnöller whip-crackers mark the opening of the festival. A rich program is planned for the little ones: guided workshops to build bird feeders and nesting boxes, a children's flea market organized by the VKE, and face painting. The local associations—from young farmers to fishing and hunting groups—manage the refreshment points with local dishes and drinks, turning the market into a true community celebration.

An identity-defining event for Castelbello-Ciardes

More than just a market, the Garten- und Genussmarkt is a meeting point that tells the story of this corner of the Vinschgau Valley, a land of orchards, vineyards, and ancient farming traditions. The combination of taste, gardening, and craftsmanship, set against the backdrop of the historic center of Castelbello, makes it a beloved event for locals and increasingly appreciated by visitors choosing South Tyrol in the spring.