Sappamukki 2026

Celebrated over the weekend of 26 and 27 September 2026, this event tells the story of the ancient tradition of transhumance: the festival marking the return of the herds to the valley after the summer months spent in the cool high-altitude pastures.

Two days born from the deep bond between the Alpine community and its land, with folk rhythms, the scent of woodsmoke and traditional dishes.

Saturday: "Vrelich Aufmòchn" and the Magic of the Brass BandsThe festival gets under way in the late afternoon on Saturday. Warming up the atmosphere is "Vrelich Aufmòchn" (literally "Playing cheerfully"), a lively gathering of bands organised by the town band Plodar Pléchmusich.
From 17:30: the parade sets off from the picturesque Mühlbach Bridge. The procession of bands marches to the music right through the village centre, amid the applause and smiles of onlookers, until it reaches the large festival marquee set up in the Eibn area.
From 19:30: the dancing begins and the kitchens open. Over a tankard of cold beer and local specialities, the guest bands take turns on stage — from the local Sappada-Plodn band to those of Ponte in Valtellina, Lignano Sabbiadoro and Pontebba — creating a warm and convivial evening.

Sunday: The Grand Parade and the Triumph of FlavoursSunday is the beating heart of the event, the day when rural pride is shown in all its beauty.At
10:30 – The return of the herds: the main procession sets off from the Mühlbach Bridge, led by the music of the Paularo Band. The real stars are the cows, festively decorated with colourful garlands, flowers and cowbells that ring out throughout the valley. Walking alongside them down the main street is a step back in time, a ritual that brings together young and old.
From 11:00 – Markets and crafts: in the Eibn area, stalls of local produce come to life: mountain-hut cheeses, artisan cured meats, honeys, woodcarvings and little treasures of Alpine craftsmanship.
From 11:30 – Lunch to the rhythm of music: the marquee kitchen is in full swing. With gnocchi, canederli dumplings, frico, polenta and traditional desserts, the welcome for the parade turns into a great banquet. Keeping the energy high are live music and lively traditional dances from the folk group Die Plodar Kryner.

An Experience to Enjoy Whatever the WeatherOne of the great strengths of Sappamukki is its welcoming atmosphere. All the food areas, markets and concerts are designed to be enjoyed to the full: should the weather be uncertain, the large covered venue in the Eibn area ensures the festival carries on in the dry, amid warm laughter and steaming dishes.

Letting yourself be enveloped by the sound of the cowbells, the colours of autumn and the authenticity of a community proud of its roots is the best way to say goodbye to summer and welcome the new season in the Dolomites.