Knödelfest / Dumpling Festival

The dumpling festival at the foot of the Sciliar

The Knödelfest, or Dumpling Festival, is one of the most beloved summer events on the Sciliar Plateau, in the municipality of Castelrotto (Kastelruth), in the province of Bolzano, in the Trentino-Alto Adige region. The event takes place in the village square, among the characteristic frescoed facades and the bell tower that dominates the town, in one of the most evocative corners of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites.

The dumpling, symbol of South Tyrolean cuisine

The dumpling (in German Knödel) is one of the most iconic dishes of the South Tyrolean tradition: a large ball of stale bread mixed with milk, eggs, and various ingredients, served in broth or dry. During the festival, visitors can taste the entire variety of South Tyrolean dumplings:

• Speck dumplings, the most classic and savory version;
• Spinach dumplings, delicate and with a characteristic green color;
• Cheese dumplings, gooey and comforting;
• Sweet apricot and strawberry dumplings, the choice for those with a sweet tooth.

Live music and village atmosphere

Beyond the gastronomy, the Knödelfest features live music on the stage set up in the square, with local bands enlivening the evening. The specialties are accompanied by local wines and beers, in a typically Tyrolean festive climate where residents and tourists gather at the outdoor tables.

Castelrotto and the Sciliar Plateau

Castelrotto is the main village of the Alpe di Siusi hiking area, the largest high-altitude plateau in Europe. The festival is the ideal opportunity to discover the village and its culinary tradition during a summer mountain vacation, amidst walks, Dolomite panoramas, and Ladin and German culture. Admission to the event is free.