Musikfest Neustift at Stiftsplatz – Musikkapelle Neustift

A festival in the courtyard of Novacella Abbey

The Musikfest Neustift at Stiftsplatz is the annual festival organized by the Musikkapelle Neustift, the brass band of the Novacella (Neustift) district in the municipality of Varna/Vahrn, in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano/Bozen (Trentino-Alto Adige). The event takes place in the characteristic covered Stiftsplatz, the courtyard of the famous Novacella Abbey, with the scenic backdrop of the so-called Engelsburg, the fortified tower of the monastic complex.

Folk music and live bands

For three days around mid-August, the square comes alive with Tyrolean folk music concerts: guest bands (Musikkapellen), Böhmische-style brass groups, and party ensembles ranging from traditional repertoire (marches, polkas) to great Schlager hits and dance music. It is a program designed for all ages, set in the straightforward and convivial atmosphere typical of South Tyrolean Musikfeste.

Gastronomy and family

Alongside the music, the festival offers Tyrolean culinary specialties and excellent beer, served in the covered courtyard, providing shelter from the weather. For the little ones, there are bouncy castles and face painting, making the event suitable for families.

An identity-defining event for Novacella

The Musikfest is one of the most cherished events for the Novacella community and the local band, whose very young average age testifies to the strong roots of band tradition in South Tyrol. The setting of Novacella Abbey, one of the most important Augustinian monasteries in the Alps, adds historical and scenic value that attracts visitors from neighboring municipalities in the Isarco Valley and the Bressanone/Brixen area.

• Where: Stiftsplatz, Novacella Abbey, Varna/Vahrn (BZ)
• When: Around mid-August
• Organizer: Musikkapelle Neustift
• Admission: Free