Thanksgiving Festival / Erntedankfest

The Thanksgiving Festival in Bolzano

Every year in mid-October, Piazza Walther in the heart of Bolzano (Autonomous Province of Bolzano, Trentino-Alto Adige) comes alive with the Thanksgiving Festival, known in German as Erntedankfest—one of the most beloved autumn traditions in South Tyrol. The event, organized by the Gallo Rosso brand in collaboration with the Südtiroler Bauernbund (South Tyrolean Farmers' Union), celebrates the end of the harvest season and the deep bond between the city and its surrounding countryside.

A grand farmers' market

For the occasion, the square turns into a bustling farmers' market featuring dozens of stalls managed directly by farmers and producers from South Tyrolean farms. Visitors can purchase and sample authentic local specialties: seasonal fruits and vegetables, juices, syrups, aromatic herbs, grappa and spirits, wines and cider, jams, honey, cheeses, speck, cured meats, eggs, bread, and organic cosmetics. It is the perfect opportunity to meet the producers, hear the stories behind the farms, and rediscover the quality of farm-to-table products.

Activities and entertainment

Surrounding the market is a program of activities designed for the whole family. Highlights include cooking demonstrations by local farmers sharing the secrets and recipes of traditional South Tyrolean cuisine, a small petting zoo with farm animals, a hay-filled play area for children (the traditional Heuhupfen), and a charming vintage tractor exhibition displayed along the city center streets. The atmosphere is completed by traditional music and performances by Tyrolean folk groups.

A sustainable event

The Thanksgiving Festival is a certified GreenEvent, encouraging visitors to reach Bolzano city center using eco-friendly transportation, in respect of the environment and the local area. Admission to the event is free.