Kuppelwieser Markt (Sheep Market)

The Kuppelwies Sheep Market

The Kuppelwieser Markt, also known as the Schafmarkt (sheep market), is one of the most cherished traditional events in the Val d'Ultimo (Ultental), in the province of Bolzano, Trentino-South Tyrol. It takes place every autumn in the village of Kuppelwies, on the large meadow overlooking the shores of Lake Zoccolo (Zoggler Stausee), in the municipality of Ultimo/Ulten, the heart of one of South Tyrol's most pristine and original valleys.

A Tradition Rooted in Pastoral Life

The market is deeply rooted in the valley's pastoral culture, where sheep farming has been an integral part of daily life for centuries. During the market day, the Kuppelwies meadow comes alive with numerous stalls: alongside local produce and culinary specialties, visitors will find handicrafts, clothing, and above all, items made from Ultental sheep wool, such as sweaters, warm slippers (the traditional Potschn), and felt goods.

Shearing and Sheep Products

A signature moment of the event is the sheep shearing, which attracts both adults and children and showcases an ancient craft that is still very much alive in the valley. The freshly shorn wool is processed into warm, durable products, while stalls offer wool, felt, and delicacies featuring local lamb and mutton.

Part of the Ultner Lammwochen

The Kuppelwieser Markt is part of the Lamb Weeks (Ultner Lammwochen) calendar, an autumn festival held between mid-September and early October that celebrates all things sheep and lamb throughout the valley: from restaurants serving refined lamb specialties to events dedicated to the work of shepherds and wool processing. Music and local food offerings accompany the market day, making it a true celebration for both residents and visitors.

Municipality and Territory

The event is organized by the Municipality of Ultimo/Gemeinde Ulten and is traditionally held in the second half of September, near the feast of Saint Walburga (St. Walburg), running from the morning until the early afternoon. It offers an authentic opportunity to discover the farming traditions of Val d'Ultimo, immersed in the alpine landscape of the Tessa Group Nature Park and the Zoccolo Lake basin.