Paulsner Dorffest

A village festival in the heart of the Wine Road

The Paulsner Dorffest is one of the best-known and most beloved village festivals in South Tyrol. It takes place in San Paolo (known as St. Pauls in German), a district of the municipality of Appiano sulla strada del vino (Eppan an der Weinstraße), in the province of Bolzano, along the famous South Tyrolean Wine Road. This is not an annual event: the festival is held every two years, on the first weekend of September, which is why it is eagerly anticipated by both locals and visitors.

Historic courtyards and open cellars

The charm of the Paulsner Dorffest lies in how it transforms the entire village. For the occasion, historic courtyards and hidden cellars are opened to the public—private spaces that become the stage for the festivities. Throughout the alleys and small squares, the many associations of San Paolo set up food stalls where you can sample traditional local dishes: from the famous "Giggerle" (roast chicken) to typical South Tyrolean specialties, all accompanied by wines produced along the Wine Road. The festival takes place rain or shine, as many of the seating areas and cellars are covered.

Music, brass bands, and folk traditions

The program alternates between musical entertainment and moments of South Tyrolean folk tradition. Friday and Saturday evenings are dedicated to concerts and live music, while Sunday has a more traditional tone, featuring brass bands, folk dance groups, and a festive mass. There is also the draw of the grand lottery, a traditional appointment held specifically during the Dorffest.

A celebration of identity

More than just an event, the Paulsner Dorffest is a moment of community identity where the entire village of San Paolo gets involved: from brass bands to sports clubs, and from folk groups to committees, everyone collaborates on the organization. For visitors, it is the ideal opportunity to discover an authentic South Tyrolean village, amidst historic architecture, food and wine culture, and local hospitality, in the municipality of Appiano sulla strada del vino, in Trentino-Alto Adige.

How it works

• The festival is held every two years, on the first weekend of September.
• Free admission; you only pay for what you consume at the various association stalls.
• Shuttle service available to reach the village.
• Historic courtyards and cellars are open to the public for the duration of the event.