Tschars Volunteer Fire Brigade Festival

The Ciardes Fire Brigade Festival

The Tschars Volunteer Fire Brigade Festival (Fest der Freiwilligen Feuerwehr Tschars) is the traditional summer celebration organized by the Ciardes Volunteer Fire Brigade (Freiwillige Feuerwehr Tschars). It takes place in the village square of Ciardes (Dorfplatz Tschars), part of the municipality of Kastelbell-Tschars, in the Vinschgau Valley, in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, Trentino-Alto Adige. It is one of those events that mark the summer in small South Tyrolean villages, where the volunteer fire brigade, a pillar of mountain community life, opens its doors to locals and visitors alike for two days of joy.

Music, traditions, and conviviality

The program alternates between musical moments, entertainment, and gastronomic specialties. The absolute highlight is the live South Tyrolean folk music: from the Volksmusik groups that liven up Saturday evening to the concert by the Ciardes Brass Band (Musikkapelle Tschars) during the traditional Sunday Frühschoppen, the long aperitif that accompanies the morning in the square. There is also a wine corner featuring labels from the Vinschgau Valley, cuisine prepared by the firefighters, and games for the little ones.

An event for the whole family

The festival is designed for all ages: while adults enjoy the music and conviviality, children can find space in the play area set up in the VKE garden. The two days are marked by unmissable moments such as the bingo, open to everyone, and afternoon and evening dance concerts. It is the perfect opportunity to discover the genuine hospitality of the lower Vinschgau Valley, just a few kilometers from Merano.

Ciardes and the Vinschgau Valley

Ciardes/Tschars is one of the villages in the municipality of Kastelbell-Tschars, a town overlooking the Adige River and dominated by the imposing Castelbello Castle. The area, famous for its apple orchards, terraced vineyards, and ancient irrigation channel paths (Waalwege), offers visitors an authentic Alpine setting. Participating in the fire brigade festival means immersing yourself in the truest South Tyrolean popular tradition, made of brass bands, village cuisine, and a sense of community.