Nadal en Naldem

Christmas in Aldeno

Nadal en Naldem is the name, in the Trentino dialect, used by the Municipality of Aldeno to host its Christmas initiatives. The small town in the Autonomous Province of Trento, nestled on the right bank of the Adige river just a few kilometers from the capital, dresses up for the holidays throughout December with lights, decorations, nativity scenes, and events designed for all ages. The event is promoted by the AVIS section of Aldeno, Cimone, and Garniga Terme in collaboration with the municipal administration, and admission is free.

The Return of the Krampus

The most awaited and scenic event is the "The Return of the Krampus" parade. The Krampus are demonic figures from Central European alpine folklore who, according to legend, accompany Saint Nicholas to punish naughty children: hand-carved wooden masks, horns, furs, and cowbells bring to life a procession that is as evocative as it is noisy. In Aldeno, the creatures cross the heart of the town along a loop route that starts from Piazza Cesare Battisti and continues along Via Roma, Via Giacometti, Via Altinate, Piazza della Torre, and Via Dante, before returning to the starting point.

The parade takes place in the evening, when the darkness and torches amplify the atmosphere: an intense experience, particularly appreciated by teenagers and adults, which in recent years has revived in Trentino a tradition once confined to the Ladin valleys and Cimbrian villages.

Nativity Scenes and Christmas Atmosphere

Alongside the parade, Nadal en Naldem offers a nativity scene exhibition set up in the Municipality of Aldeno, a route that highlights the art of nativity scenes and the creativity of the community. It is an opportunity to stroll through the streets of the village, rediscover characteristic corners, and experience the most authentic spirit of Trentino Christmas, made of tradition, conviviality, and a sense of belonging.

A Community Celebration

Organized by local volunteers, Nadal en Naldem is first and foremost a town festival: free, open to all, and capable of uniting different generations. Those visiting Aldeno in December will find a genuine event, far from the major tourist showcases, which tells the story of how the small municipalities of Trentino-Alto Adige preserve and renew their winter traditions.