The Grape Festival in Merano is celebrating its 140th anniversary

From 16 to 18 October, Merano once again hosts the grand Grape Festival, which since 1886 has served as a time to give thanks for the bountiful autumn harvest and to celebrate South Tyrolean traditions. To mark its 140th anniversary, the event is expanding and bringing the celebrations forward, starting as early as Friday 16 October with a prelude of street music that will culminate in the evening with a celebratory opening concert at the Kursaal, with free admission. On Saturday, a veritable whirlwind of performances will take place in the town centre, with repertoires ranging from Alpine ‘great classics’ to more avant-garde offerings, accompanied by a wide range of culinary delights. On Sunday, the festivities will continue right up to the grand finale with a parade featuring all the marching bands and allegorical floats. The Grape Festival, which since the late 19th century – organised by the Tourist Board – has brought the town to life with sounds, flavours and traditions, represents a moment of shared joy and gratitude for the fruits of autumn, expressed through a fusion of past and present. The backdrop is provided by the colourful foliage that characterises the slopes of the peaks surrounding Merano. For the occasion, several restaurants are expanding their menus to offer local specialities. Furthermore, the most famous stretch of the Lungo Passirio will host various stalls, transforming into a showcase for South Tyrol’s typical food and wine specialities. In addition to music and cuisine, guided tours will be organised from Friday onwards to explore Merano, its history and the world of wine.

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