Nativity of Mary Festival / "A Festival that makes Vigo"

A village festival in the heart of the Valle dei Laghi

The Nativity of Mary Festival is one of the most cherished events in Vigo Cavedine, a hamlet in the municipality of Cavedine, in the province of Trento (Trentino-Alto Adige). Linked to the religious feast day of September 8th, the festival is traditionally held on the first weekend of September. It is rooted in a centuries-old tradition that the community continues to renew thanks to the efforts of the Pro Loco of Vigo Cavedine, affiliated with UNPLI Trentino.

"A Festival that makes Vigo": where tradition meets youth

In recent years, the Pro Loco has revitalized the event by introducing "A Festival that makes Vigo," an initiative designed specifically for younger audiences. The formula blends contemporary entertainment with the town's roots: Saturday night is dedicated to live music with free-entry concerts under the festival tent, while Sunday focuses on the more traditional aspects of the festival, featuring a community lunch prepared by volunteers, craft markets, and activities for children.

The Palio delle Cinque Spighe

The heart and soul of the event is the Palio delle Cinque Spighe, a competition involving the five hamlets of the Cavedine municipality — Cavedine, Vigo Cavedine, Brusino, Stravino, and Lago di Cavedine. Throughout the summer, teams from the various districts face off in a series of skill-based challenges, with the final taking place on the day of the festival. The winning hamlet receives a trophy to display for the entire year. Launched just a few years ago, the competition has quickly gained great popularity among locals, especially the youth, becoming a powerful tool for community building and local pride.

Gastronomy and conviviality

The festival is also a great opportunity to enjoy traditional Trentino cuisine: the Pro Loco kitchen remains open all day, and the Sunday community lunch offers a full menu at affordable prices. Craft markets, bouncy castles for children, and evening concerts round out a weekend of celebration that brings together the entire Valle dei Laghi community.

An experience to live

Balancing the sacred and the secular, rural tradition and youthful energy, the Nativity of Mary Festival in Vigo Cavedine is a successful example of how a small Trentino community can preserve its roots while keeping them vibrant. It is a genuine, free, and inclusive event, perfect for those looking to discover the authentic hospitality of the towns in the province of Trento.