Tesero and its Nativity Scenes

Christmas in the heart of Val di Fiemme

Tesero and its Nativity Scenes is one of the most beloved and long-standing Christmas events in Trentino. Every year, from the Feast of the Immaculate Conception until Epiphany, the historic center of Tesero in Val di Fiemme dresses up for the holidays, becoming a sprawling, village-wide nativity scene. Nearly one hundred artisan crèches peek out from alleys, courtyards, windows, and hidden corners of the town, all illuminated during the winter evenings and accessible via a free, self-guided walking route.

A tradition born in 1965

The event has its roots in 1965 and is dedicatedly managed by the Associazione Amici del Presepio Felix Deflorian, which has turned it into a defining identity for the entire community. The centerpiece of the event is the Grand Nativity Scene set up in Piazza Cesare Battisti, while the ancient cellars and stables of Casa Jellici—a building documented as far back as the early 16th century—host exhibitions dedicated to the art of nativity making, including the "Nativity Scenes from the Five Continents" display, which gathers artifacts from various countries around the world.

The nativity trail

The evocative "Nativity Scenes in the Courtyards" route guides visitors through the village's traditional houses, with wooden display cases housing the works of local artisans. The route, designed to be accessible, winds around the bell tower and the church, offering fairytale-like vistas perfect for families; there is even a Christmas-themed treasure hunt for the little ones.

The Christmas market

• Wooden stalls in Piazza Cesare Battisti featuring local products, Swiss stone pine crafts, honey, and local specialties
• Hot drinks and traditional flavors of the Fiemme Valley
• Roaming concerts, folklore performances, and theatrical storytelling during the holiday days

Compared to the large markets in South Tyrol, the Tesero market retains an intimate, cozy scale, perfect for those seeking an authentic mountain Christmas away from the crowds.

Why visit

Nestled in the Dolomites of the Val di Fiemme, in Trentino-Alto Adige, Tesero combines the magic of nativity scenes with the beauty of one of the most characteristic alpine villages in the valley. It is an ideal stop during winter holidays, perfect to combine with snowshoeing, skiing, and local gastronomic traditions.