San Bastian Festival in Selva di Levico

The patronal feast of Selva di Levico

The San Bastian Festival is the patronal feast of the village of Selva di Levico, in the municipality of Levico Terme, in the province of Trento (Trentino-Alto Adige). It is celebrated annually on the weekend closest to January 20th, the day dedicated to saints Fabian and Sebastian, patrons of this small mountain community overlooking the Valsugana valley. Known locally by the dialect expression "co' la viola 'n man", the festival has for over thirty years united religious devotion with festive celebration, involving the entire village and the many visitors who head up to Selva in the heart of winter.

The Wood-Sled Race and the Castle Palio

The most anticipated and spectacular moment is the Wood-Sled Race, also known as the Castle Palio - Trofeo dei Duri. The event commemorates an ancient mountain tradition: the wood sled was the tool used in winter to transport timber from the woods down to the valley along steep paths, as well as hay and other household goods. Over time, this tradition has evolved into a competition of strength and skill that starts from the area in front of the Castle of Selva and descends to the village square. Along the course, teams face skill tests, while the event concludes at the finish line with the final log-cutting challenge. It is the most authentic expression of Selva's soul, which, through the symbol of the sled, rediscovers its origins as lumberjacks and farmers.

The campanò and traditions

The festival opens on Saturday afternoon with the traditional campanò: the Alpini, accompanied by local residents, climb the bell tower and ring the bells of the Selva church in full peal, announcing the start of the festivities. Sunday is dedicated to the solemn mass in honor of the patron saints, followed by convivial moments that bring the village to life: the distribution of grostoli and wine, apple fritole prepared by the Alpini Group, and mulled wine to warm up the winter day.

Who organizes the festival

The event is organized by the Gruppo Castel Selva, active since 1977 in promoting local traditions, now joined by the Pro Loco Castel Selva established in 2024. The success of the festival is supported by the Alpini Group, who handle the fritole and mulled wine, and the Missionary Group with their charity raffle. An entirely volunteer-run organization that brings one of the most characteristic winter festivals of the Trentino Valsugana back to life every January.

A community gathering in the heart of winter

The San Bastian Festival is much more than a religious anniversary: it is an occasion where the community of Selva di Levico gathers around its identity, amidst music, faith, traditional food, and the lighthearted challenge of the sleds. For visitors, it is an opportunity to discover an authentic corner of Trentino, far from mass tourism, immersed in the genuine atmosphere of a mountain village in celebration.