Mountain Festival in Malcesine
As summer draws to a close on Lake Garda, a centuries-old tradition takes centre stage in Malcesine: the Mountain Festival (‘Festa della Montagna’). The event combines the rural culture of Monte Baldo with regional cuisine, crafts and customs, and is one of the most popular autumn festivals on the eastern shore of Lake Garda.
What is the Mountain Festival?
The Mountain Festival is the traditional celebration marking the end of the alpine grazing season on Monte Baldo. It focuses on life in the mountains, agriculture and regional traditions. Local producers showcase their goods, whilst visitors have the opportunity to discover the authentic flavours and customs of the Malcesine area.
When and where does the Mountain Festival take place?
Current date:
Sunday, 25 October 2026
Venue:
Piazza Statuto in Malcesine
The Festa della Montagna takes place every October in the historic centre of Malcesine. It celebrates the end of the alpine summer, when the animals return to the valley from the pastures of Monte Baldo. The picturesque setting between Lake Garda and the mountains gives the event a special character.
Highlights of the Mountain Festival
Highlights include market stalls offering regional produce, gastronomic specialities and the traditional Polenta Carbonara with cheese from the Monte Baldo mountain pastures. The programme is complemented by an exhibition of livestock and agricultural equipment.
Children gain fascinating insights into farm life and the production of farm products through educational workshops and at the educational farm. The day’s festivities conclude with the Palio della Cuccagna, a traditional game at folk festivals that requires both skill and strength.
Further activities in Malcesine & on Monte Baldo
Between lake and mountain
A visit to the mountain festival can be perfectly combined with other experiences:
- Visit to Scaliger Castle in Malcesine: Exciting for the whole family
- Cable car ride up Monte Baldo: Magnificent views
- Boat trip to Limone: Varied lake panoramas
And, of course, there is a wide selection of beautiful walking, cycling and mountain biking routes between Lake Garda and Monte Baldo.
