Snow Carnival

Snow Carnival at Passo della Mendola

The Snow Carnival proudly calls itself "Italy's biggest Carnival après-ski." Every year, between late February and early March, it transforms the slopes of Passo della Mendola, in the municipality of Ruffrè-Mendola, into a massive open-air costume party. The event is held in the heart of Val di Non, in Trentino-Alto Adige, at the foot of the Monte Roen chairlift in the Campi Golf area, set against the vast, snow-covered backdrop of the ski slopes.

A Costume Party on the Snow

The program blends the playful spirit of Carnival with the atmosphere of a winter mountain getaway. Gates open in the afternoon, and the day continues with DJ sets on illuminated slopes featuring nationally renowned guests, a fancy-dress sledding race on a dedicated track, a traditional Carnival dinner, and, in the evening, a stunning torchlight procession followed by fireworks. At the end of the day, the party moves to an indoor after-party at the Coredo chalet in the municipality of Predaia.

Activities and Experiences

• DJ sets slope-side with national guest artists
• Sledding race in costume, with sleds and bobsleighs provided
• Traditional Carnival dinner (gnocchi and Trentino specialties)
• Torchlight procession and evening fireworks display
• Side activities including horse-drawn sleigh rides and ice skating

An Event Designed for the Youth

The event is particularly suited to a younger audience (roughly 18-35 years old), but remains open to anyone wishing to experience Carnival at altitude in a way that breaks from traditional village parades. Packages, available exclusively online, allow guests to choose between a day-trip experience or an overnight stay at partner hotels and farmhouses in Val di Non.

The Setting: Val di Non and Passo della Mendola

Passo della Mendola connects Val di Non to the Bolzano basin and has been a renowned mountain resort for over a century. Choosing this setting for a Snow Carnival means combining Italian Carnival tradition with the charm of the Dolomites and the mountains of Trentino-Alto Adige, all in an easily accessible area with ample parking.