Vilpianer Kirchtag

The Vilpianer Kirchtag: a celebration for the Vilpiano community

The Vilpianer Kirchtag is the traditional village festival of Vilpiano (Vilpian), located in the municipality of Terlano along the South Tyrolean Wine Road in the province of Bolzano. The Kirchtag—literally "church day," the patronal feast that has evolved over time into a major village celebration in South Tyrol—is one of the most cherished moments of the year for this small community, offering a chance for residents, guests, and friends from neighboring valleys to gather for a day of conviviality.

Who organizes the festival

The event is passionately organized by the Vilpiano Volunteer Fire Department (Freiwillige Feuerwehr Vilpian), with the support of the Terlano Tourist Association. As is common in many South Tyrolean villages, local volunteer associations—firefighters, brass bands, and traditional groups—are the ones who keep the festival alive; proceeds from the day support the department's activities and the hamlet's social life.

Program and atmosphere

The festival is held in the Bachau recreational area (Erholungszone Bachau), a green space on the outskirts of the village, and runs throughout the day, from morning until evening. The rhythm is that of a classic South Tyrolean festival:

• Morning Frühschoppen featuring the Musikkapelle Vilpiano, the local brass band, which kicks off the day with traditional band music;
• Folk and dance music in the afternoon, with Volksmusik and Böhmische (Bohemian and Tyrolean style) groups;
• Evening entertainment with live bands;
• Activities and games designed for children, from painting to target shooting and traditional village games.

Gastronomy

A major highlight is the traditional South Tyrolean cuisine, served at stalls managed by volunteers: local specialties, grilled dishes, homemade desserts, and, of course, local wines, which are the heart of Terlano's winemaking tradition. Admission to the festival is free, with food and drinks purchased directly at the stalls.

A piece of South Tyrolean tradition

The Vilpianer Kirchtag is much more than just a festival: it is a ritual that renews the sense of belonging within the Vilpiano community every year. In a quiet corner of the province of Bolzano, nestled between the vineyards of the Wine Road and the mountains of South Tyrol, the event offers visitors an authentic taste of South Tyrolean culture, defined by music, good food, and genuine hospitality.