A land of traditions and flavours for every taste

Where the sky turns a brilliant blue and the landscapes unfold into breathtaking panoramas, the Valli del Natisone reveal themselves as an enchanted land welcoming families, couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers with open arms. Get ready to immerse yourself in a journey of discovery, where colors, flavors, and ancient customs blend into an unforgettable harmony.

The festival calendar will guide you through the seasons, immersing you in the magic of the Valli del Natisone. Ready? We start with autumn, but keep reading to find the perfect time of year for your visit!

Autumn in the Natisone Valleys begins with the enticing aroma of freshly roasted chestnuts during Burnjak, the chestnut festival in Tribil Superiore (Stregna). Music, markets, and activities for children enliven this traditional celebration, perfect for those eager to savor the season’s typical products. But don’t stop there: in Tribil, you can stay at Casa Cebajova or the Ostello La Finestra, and for trekking enthusiasts, explore the Celestial Path (Cammino Celeste) and the Alpe Adria Trail. Don’t forget to admire the terraced landscapes of As.Fo. Terraviva, which enrich the panorama and make it even more unique.

The Carnival of the Valli del Natisone, known as Pust, brings an explosion of colors and music during the winter. The traditional masks of the Blumari from Montefosca roam the valleys with wild runs, accompanied by the sound of accordions and typical dances. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the most authentic roots of these lands and immerse yourself in the lively local traditions.

With the arrival of summer, the solstice is celebrated with the magical Kries Sv. Ivana, the bonfire of St. John. On this special night, fires light up the hills and ancient traditions like divination with egg whites come alive, creating a mystical and captivating atmosphere. Join this celebration to connect with the ancestral roots of the area and welcome summer in a truly enchanting way.

The Festa di Vernasso, on the banks of the Natisone River, is a burst of fun for the whole family, featuring sports tournaments, food stalls, and live music. The camping area lets you spend days immersed in nature, soaking up the joyful atmosphere of this festival that celebrates summer with flavors and fun.

San Lorenzo in Mersino (Pulfero) offers an authentic experience with homemade sweets, breathtaking views, warm company, and a small votive chapel at the foot of Matajur. End your day with a walk up Matajur or simply relaxing in the surrounding area.

The blessing of flower bouquets—believed to protect against storms—is at the heart of the Festa della Rožinca in Cras (Drenchia) and Montemaggiore (Savogna). But it’s not just about faith: in Montemaggiore, you can explore the “Pot pravc” storytelling trail and enjoy musical events under the stars, spending an evening immersed in culture and nature.

The “Emigrant’s Festival” in Scrutto (San Leonardo) features sports tournaments and live concerts. Meanwhile, the Senjan Festival in Cravero, with folk music, five-a-side soccer tournaments, and excellent barbecues, delights visitors and unites families, celebrating the summer season with good food and joy. With its relaxed atmosphere and outstanding cuisine, this festival is the perfect farewell to summer in the Valli del Natisone.

To make your experience even more authentic, here are some tips to follow:

• Participate actively: Don’t just watch—immerse yourself in the activities. Try your hand at preparing traditional dishes during the food festivals, learn local dances, or join creative workshops.
• Engage with the community: The locals are the true heart and soul of the Valli del Natisone. Take the opportunity to chat with them, hear their stories, and enjoy their genuine hospitality.
• Savor the local flavors: The cuisine of the Valli del Natisone is rich with unique tastes. Be sure to try the typical products we mentioned earlier in this article.
• Choose to stay in an Albergo Diffuso: This hospitality style lets you live close to the local community, staying in cozy, renovated accommodations that respect traditional architecture and culture.

The Valli del Natisone await you for an unforgettable journey full of festivals, flavours, and traditions—an experience that will leave an indelible mark on the hearts of all who take part.