South Tyrol's Ferragosto: events, traditions and nature

August has already begun and next week practically the whole of Italy (including us) will be on holiday! At the seaside, in the mountains, at the lake or in the cities of art... the week of Ferragosto the phones don't ring, e-mails don't go out, offices are closed and people are trying to enjoy a well-deserved rest before September arrives! A week, two for the lucky ones, in which to slow down, devote oneself to one's passions and to the people closest to one's heart.

The origins of Ferragosto: a journey through history

**Ferragosto in South Tyrol**
Ferragosto in South Tyrol is on the Christian feast day of the Assumption of Mary.
Dimitris Vetsikas

Ferragosto, on 15 August, has its roots in ancient times, well before the advent of Christianity. Its name derives from the Latin 'Feriae Augusti', meaning 'Augustus rest'. It was the Emperor Augustus, in 18 B.C., who instituted these holidays to celebrate the end of agricultural work and to provide a period of rest for workers. It was an occasion for banquets, games and celebrations throughout the Roman Empire.

With the advent of Christianity, the Catholic Church decided to coincide this pagan festival with the Assumption of Mary, thus making it a religious celebration of great importance. Ferragosto is a mix of secular and religious traditions, synonymous with holidays, relaxation and time spent outdoors.

The meaning of Ferragosto today

In addition to its historical and religious roots, Ferragosto has taken on a meaning deeply linked to the concept of holidays and a break from routine. It is the culmination of summer, a time to recharge one's batteries, be with family and friends, and enjoy the beautiful season. It represents freedom, fun and carefreeness before the return to daily activities.

Where is Ferragosto celebrated?

**Family hike on Seiser Alm**
On the picturesque high alpine pasture in the Dolomites, there are many family-friendly hiking tours.
Laurin Moser - Seiser Alm Marketing

Ferragosto is celebrated mainly in Italy, where it is a national holiday. However, it is also recognized in several other countries with a Catholic majority, such as France, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Luxembourg and Austria, where it may be considered a bank holiday or otherwise a public holiday.

In Switzerland and Germany it is also observed in some regions or cantons, although not everywhere. In many Latin American countries - including Chile, Venezuela, Costa Rica and Colombia - 15 August is often a public holiday, although not always officially recognized as a bank holiday.

In Italy, tradition dictates that it is the day par excellence of outings, picnics, outdoor lunches, and bonfires under the stars. The cities empty out, and people flock to the holiday resorts, in our case the beautiful mountains of South Tyrol.

How to spend Ferragosto in South Tyrol:

**Lake Prags with Mt. Seekofel**
The breath-takingly beautiful mountain lake in the Dolomites is located at the foot of the picturesque Mt. Seekofel.
Internet Consulting - Stefan Tolpeit

Hiking and trekking in the mountains
The Dolomites are the perfect stage for a day in the open air. Choose one of the many trails, from easy walks to more challenging treks, and enjoy a picnic with panoramic views. Many mountain huts organize special lunches for the occasion.
Alpine lakes and refreshing bathing
The crystal-clear waters of Alpine lakes such as Prags Lake, Karersee Lake or Reschen Lake offer a refreshing alternative. You can rent a boat, take a walk around the lake or simply relax on the shores. In this article you will also find lakes in which you can swim!
Barbecues and outdoor picnics
Many picnic areas and mountain meadows are ideal for a barbecue with friends or a simple picnic. Remember to respect the environment and leave the place clean.
Relaxation & Wellness
If you prefer a relaxing Ferragosto, many hotels and accommodation facilities in South Tyrol offer wellness packages and swimming pools with mountain views. A perfect way to switch off and regenerate.
Visiting castles and museums
For lovers of history and culture, South Tyrol is full of castles and museums worth a visit. Many remain open on 15 August, offering an interesting alternative to outdoor activities.

**Versatile wellness oasis in Sterzing**
You can relax perfectly in the Balneum's whirlpool.
Balneum Sterzing | Klaus Peterlin

**Museum of archaeology**
Museum of archaeology in Bozen
Tourismusverein Bozen Bolzano

**Barbecue on the alpine pasture**
Il barbecue diventa così divertente!
Hofstatt Alm

Events and village festivals

**Ferragosto in Alto Adige**
Traditional costume parades are held at Ferragosto.
Helmuth Rier

Many South Tyrolean villages organize festivals, country fairs, sporting events and markets on the occasion of 15th August. It is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, taste typical specialties and listen to traditional music.

Here are some interesting events:

Ferragosto festival in Wolkenstein (14-15 August 2025): An event with traditional food and drink, musical entertainment by bands and groups, traditional parades and performances by folk dance groups.
Night Run Toblach (14 August 2025): The traditional night march starting from the Grand Hotel Toblach.
Oberbozner Kirchtag (15th August 2025): A folk festival with music, fun games and local delicacies. The celebrations start at 11 am.
Kaltern Wine Festival on the Wine Road (13-16 August): A traditional festival dedicated to wine.
Big summer festivals of the Voluntary Fire Brigade at various locations, with Tyrolean specialties, band concerts and entertainment.

Ferragosto in South Tyrol

In South Tyrol, Ferragosto is not only synonymous with holidays and barbecues at high altitudes: it is also the time to renew an ancient and fragrant tradition, linked to rural spirituality and Marian devotion. This is the blessing of bunches of herbs and flowers, also known as “Kräuterweihe” in German.

According to tradition, on 15 August - the Feast of the Assumption of Mary - bunches of seven, nine or twelve medicinal plants are gathered, strictly wild: wild flowers, spikes, aromatic and medicinal herbs such as artemisia, yarrow, mint, St. John's Wort, chamomile, sage and yarrow. Each plant has a symbolic meaning or curative use, passed down through generations. The bunches are taken to church to be blessed during mass on the Assumption, and then kept in homes, hung in stables or placed near the entrance. They are believed to protect the family, the harvest and the animals, keeping evil and storms away.

This tradition combines Christian faith with pagan roots and much older agricultural rituals, linked to the cycle of nature and the power of plants. It is a way of bringing home a small fragment of the mountain, blessed by the summer sun and the hand of the parish priest.

🌟 Special tip 🌟

If you're in the mountains in the Ferragosto week, take the opportunity to enjoy the Perseid show, the famous 'Tears of Saint Lawrence', point your eyes to the sky between 12 and 13 August 2025. Keep in mind, however, that the moon may make it more difficult to see the shooting stars: choose a dark place, away from artificial lights, and bring along some patience... and maybe a wish at the ready! 🌠

Whatever your favourite way to celebrate, South Tyrol will give you an unforgettable Ferragosto, amidst the majesty of nature and the richness of its traditions!

Happy Ferragosto to all!

Text: Silvia

We are a colourful mix of nature-loving, adventurous and creative editors. All based in South Tyrol, we share the love of writing and photography, the mountains and culture. Our passion is to constantly discover new stories about the land and its people, about identity and tradition, about South Tyrol's quiet places and thousand faces. With our texts and pictures, we want to show you the beauty of this contrasting region and arise your curiosity. But above all, we want one thing: to inspire you to travel.