Polenta Festival

The Polenta Festival in Porte di Rendena

The Polenta Festival is one of the most cherished summer food events in Val Rendena. Organized by the Pro Loco Vigo Rendena, it takes place at Parco al Sarca, the green area along the Sarca River that defines the town of Porte di Rendena, in the province of Trento, in the heart of Trentino-Alto Adige. The event traditionally falls on the first Sunday of August, when the valley is bustling with holidaymakers and the vibrant life of high-altitude mountain dairies.

Polenta, the queen of the Trentino table

At the heart of the festival is polenta, an iconic dish of mountain cuisine and a symbol of the peasant traditions of the Giudicarie and Val Rendena regions. Slow-cooked in a copper cauldron according to local custom, it is served in various ways: from classic yellow polenta accompanied by alpine cheeses and stew, to more traditional local preparations like polenta carbonera, enriched with cheese and cured meats. There is no shortage of other authentic valley flavors, from dairy products to specialties prepared by the Pro Loco volunteers.

A community celebration

More than just a food festival, the Polenta Festival is a moment of conviviality and community. The Pro Loco Vigo Rendena, an association highly active in the town's tourism and cultural promotion, involves volunteers and residents in the organization, offering visitors an authentic welcome. The atmosphere is typical of Trentino village festivals: long outdoor tables, music, games, and the chance to discover the true flavors of the mountains in a picturesque natural setting.

The Val Rendena region

Porte di Rendena is located along the road that climbs the valley toward Pinzolo and Madonna di Campiglio, at the foot of the Brenta Dolomites and the Adamello-Presanella group. The area is famous for its traditions linked to livestock farming, particularly the Rendena cattle breed, and for a rich calendar of summer events that accompany vacationers and hikers. The Polenta Festival fits into this context as an opportunity to taste the valley's typical products and experience the hospitality of a small mountain town.

2026 Edition

The dates for the 2026 edition have not yet been officially announced. The event is traditionally confirmed for the first part of August at Parco al Sarca; for updated information on dates and the program, we recommend contacting the Pro Loco Vigo Rendena or following their official channels.