San Prospero Patronal Feast (San Prospero Festival and Fair)

The patronal feast of Borgo Valsugana

The San Prospero Patronal Feast is the most anticipated summer event in Borgo Valsugana, the main town of the lower Valsugana valley in the province of Trento, Trentino-Alto Adige. Every year, in mid-July, the historic center transforms into a vibrant celebration that bridges religious observance and popular culture: the San Prospero Festival and Fair draws residents and visitors from across the valley to honor the community's protector.

Faith and tradition

The religious core of the event is the solemn procession carrying the patron saint's relics through the town streets, followed by Holy Mass in the Archpriest Church, accompanied by the Borgo Valsugana Civic Band and costumed participants from the Palio della Brenta, the town's historic re-enactment. It is a moment for the community to gather and renew a bond of devotion passed down through generations.

Festival, rides, and gastronomy

Alongside the religious observances, the festival enlivens the town with a rich entertainment program. The main squares—from Piazza Degasperi to Piazza Martiri della Resistenza, Piazza Romani, and Largo Dordi—host stalls, fairground rides, and attractions for all ages. There is no shortage of food stands serving traditional Trentino cuisine, while the scent of fritters and traditional sweets fills the air. The San Prospero Brass Band Festival brings the Civic Band and guest ensembles to town for evenings of live music.

The ancient fair

The San Prospero Fair preserves the memory of the ancient Valsugana market fairs: a large traditional market with stalls in the city center concludes the festivities, featuring local products, handicrafts, and a variety of goods. It is an occasion that blends commerce, social life, and local identity.

A community event

Organized by the Pro Loco Borgo Valsugana with the support of the Municipality, the San Prospero Patronal Feast is much more than a local festival: it is the moment when Borgo Valsugana celebrates its roots, through faith, music, and conviviality, offering visitors to Valsugana an authentic glimpse of Trentino village life.