Törggelefest of the Volkstanzgruppe Marling

An autumn festival in the heart of the Burgraviato

Every year, when the vineyards around Merano turn rusty hues and the chestnuts begin to fall, the village of Marling (Marlengo in Italian), in the province of Bolzano, celebrates the arrival of autumn with the Törggelefest of the Volkstanzgruppe Marling. Organized by the local folk dance group, the Volkstanzgruppe Marling, the festival is held at the Marlinger Festplatz and serves as one of the many occasions for the community to come together and honor the ancient custom of Törggelen, known as South Tyrol's 'fifth season'.

The Törggelen tradition

Törggelen is an autumn ritual rooted in South Tyrolean farming culture: between October and November, once the grape harvest is complete, the arrival of new wine and the ripening of chestnuts are celebrated. The name derives from Torggl, the ancient wine press used to crush grapes. The stars of the table are Suser (the sweet grape must at the start of fermentation) and Nuie, the more mature new wine, accompanied by roasted chestnuts, speck, and seasonal specialties. The only rule here, locals say, is conviviality.

The day's program

The festival begins in the morning with the traditional Frühschoppen starting at 10:00 AM, a mid-morning aperitif accompanied by music to kick off the day. From noon onwards, roasted chestnuts and glasses of Suser are served, while typical food and drinks keep the festive spirit alive until evening.

• Frühschoppen with music starting at 10:00 AM
• Roasted chestnuts and Suser (grape must) from noon
• Musical entertainment with a youth band and a musical group
• South Tyrolean autumn culinary specialties

Music and atmosphere

Musical ensembles set the rhythm for the day: first a youth band, followed by another musical group, both of which enliven the Festplatz and accompany the afternoon of Törggelen with cheer. It is a perfect opportunity for families, residents, and visitors to gather in the open air and share an authentic moment of the Burgraviato's folk culture.

Marling and the fifth season

Nestled among sunny vineyards and orchards at the gates of Merano, Marling is one of the most picturesque villages for experiencing a South Tyrolean autumn: scenic trails, walks along the irrigation channels (waalwege), and a still-vibrant farming tradition make it an ideal destination during the Törggelen season. The Volkstanzgruppe's Törggelefest is the best way to savor this atmosphere, amidst steaming chestnuts, new wine, and folk music, in the heart of Trentino-Alto Adige.