Langer Mittwoch / Long Wednesday

The Langer Mittwoch in San Michele/Appiano

The Langer Mittwoch (the "Long Wednesday") is the most anticipated summer event in Appiano sulla strada del vino (Eppan an der Weinstraße), one of the most populous municipalities in the Province of Bolzano, in the heart of South Tyrol. Every Wednesday in July and August, the historic center of the San Michele/St. Michael district comes alive until late: shops remain open until 10:00 PM, some until 11:00 PM, and the village streets fill with music, street art, and the aromas of local cuisine.

The colorful umbrellas, the symbol of the festival

The installation that made the Langer Mittwoch famous is the hanging colorful umbrellas ("Hängende Schirme"): dozens of multicolored umbrellas float above the alleys of San Michele and, as evening falls, they are illuminated, creating a suspended and magical atmosphere above the heads of passersby. It has become the perfect backdrop for an evening stroll, a souvenir photo, and an outdoor aperitif.

Music, street art, and gastronomy

Each evening combines live bands—with genres ranging from jazz to rock, pop to folk—with street artist performances and the participation of local associations, which bring the squares and corners of the center to life. On the gastronomic front, there is no shortage of stalls and food trucks with regional specialties and creative offerings: burgers, grilled dishes, cocktails, and food to enjoy while walking. The spirit is that of a convivial outdoor evening, designed for both residents and the many guests vacationing on the Wine Road.

A widespread and themed event

The Langer Mittwoch is not just an evening of open shops: every Wednesday often has a different theme—from sports to music, from circus to the "White Night," up to the evening dedicated to children with games and entertainment. The event is organized by the Appiano Tourist Association/Tourismusverein Eppan and admission is free.