New Year's Eve in Ortisei

New Year's Eve in the heart of Val Gardena

In the town of Ortisei/St. Ulrich, Val Gardena, New Year's Eve is one of the most anticipated winter events in the Dolomites. Nestled between the peaks of the Sassolungo and the Odle Group, this premier Ladin village transforms its historic center into an open-air stage, blending alpine tradition, modern technology, and community spirit into an unforgettable evening. It is a quintessential mountain New Year's celebration in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, within the Trentino-Alto Adige region.

The torchlight parade and drone show

Celebrations begin in the late afternoon on the Palmer slope, where instructors from the Ortisei Ski School perform their iconic torchlight parade—a glowing ribbon of light descending the snowy slope in the evening darkness, making it one of the most photographed spectacles in the Dolomites. Immediately after, the valley sky lights up with a drone show, featuring luminous choreographies set to music and special effects, perfectly marrying tradition with technological innovation.

The party in Piazza S. Antonio

Later in the evening, the festivities shift to Piazza S. Antonio in the pedestrian center of Ortisei, where the Hockey Club Gherdëina hosts the big New Year's party. With music, DJ sets, and toasts, the square stays lively well past midnight as locals and visitors celebrate the arrival of the new year together. Numerous bars and venues in the center remain open until late, extending the festive atmosphere throughout the town.

New Year's Day

The celebrations continue on January 1st: in the afternoon, a piano is set up in the town center, available for anyone who wishes to play and share a few notes with passersby in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. For ski enthusiasts, the slopes of Val Gardena and the Dolomiti Superski area remain open, offering the perfect chance to start the year with a run through the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites.

A New Year's Eve in the Dolomites

New Year's Eve in Ortisei is more than just a street party: it is an experience that combines the valley's Ladin culture, the magic of the winter landscape, and the vibrancy of one of South Tyrol's most famous tourist destinations. This free event is open to everyone, making it ideal for families, young people, and mountain lovers looking to welcome the new year in an exceptional setting.