Spargelfest / Terlano Asparagus Festival

The Terlano White Asparagus Festival

In the municipality of Terlano (Terlan), in the autonomous province of Bolzano, at the foot of the Oltradige hills, spring has an unmistakable scent and flavor: that of the Margarete white asparagus. The Asparagus Festival (known in German as Spargelfest) is the highlight of the season. It takes place every year on the last Sunday of April at the village festival grounds, from approximately 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and is organized by the Terlano Brass Band (Musikkapelle Terlan).

A Product of Excellence

The Terlano Margarete asparagus is a white variety grown in the triangle between Terlano, Vilpiano, and Settequerce, where the sandy soil and mild climate produce a vegetable with a delicate and elegant flavor. It is hand-harvested in the early morning hours and brought to the table the same day, ensuring maximum freshness. During the festival, local chefs and volunteers prepare and serve traditional South Tyrolean asparagus-based dishes to the public.

Gastronomy and Music

At lunchtime, the square comes alive with long communal tables. Guests can enjoy asparagus specialties paired with white wines from the renowned Cantina Terlano, particularly the Sauvignon dedicated to the season. The soundtrack is provided by live brass band music; recent editions have featured Bohemian (Böhmische) bands, creating the typical atmosphere of South Tyrolean folk festivals.

The Asparagus Season

The festival is the beating heart of the wider Terlano Asparagus Season (Terlaner Spargelzeit), which runs from late March to late May. During these weeks, numerous local restaurants offer themed menus dedicated to asparagus, while the tourist office organizes guided walks in the fields, cycling excursions, visits to producers, and cooking classes, such as how to prepare asparagus strudel.

A Community Tradition

The Asparagus Festival is much more than a gastronomic event: it is a gathering place for the entire Terlano community and visitors to South Tyrol. The collaboration between the band, producers, and local associations makes this day an authentic slice of popular tradition in the Trentino-Alto Adige region, where food, wine, music, and conviviality intertwine in honor of a local signature product.