The festival of the cows' return from the Sappada pastures
At the end of summer, when the high-altitude pastures begin to fade, the herds descend from the alpine pastures: in Sappada (Plodn), this moment, full of meaning for a community with an ancient agricultural and pastoral vocation, becomes a celebration. It is called Sappamukki, where the term 'mukki' affectionately recalls the cows that are the protagonists of the day.
Sappamukki is Sappada's way of honouring the ancient rhythm of transhumance and the work of those who care for the mountain huts. The day features live music, gastronomic tastings with typical local products, and a market of agricultural products, from mountain hut cheeses to local specialities. It is an opportunity to rediscover authentic alpine culture and the deep bond between the village and its mountain.
Like all Sappada's events, Sappamukki also reflects the unique identity of this German-speaking linguistic island, amidst wooden houses, traditional costumes, and the Dolomite scenery. The festival is promoted by Visit Sappada Dolomiti with the support of the Municipality of Sappada.
September air, the scent of cheese and hay, folk music, and a community coming together around its roots: Sappamukki is a genuine festival, ideal for those seeking the authenticity of the Friulian mountains away from the summer crowds.
Sappamukki 2026 will be held on Sunday, September 27 in Sappada, celebrating the return of herds from the pastures at the end of the summer season. The day will feature live music, tastings of typical products, and a market dedicated to mountain agriculture.
The detailed hourly schedule for the day will be published in the weeks preceding the event on the official channels of Visit Sappada Dolomiti. The traditional format includes the arrival of the herds, live musical accompaniment, gastronomic stands with local products, and the market of agricultural producers from the area.
How to get there: Sappada can be reached by car from Carnia (SS52bis) or from Cadore; the nearest train station is Calalzo-Pieve di Cadore with bus connections.
Admission: free access to the festival; tastings and market purchases are paid.
Accommodation: wide range of accommodation available in the village.
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