On August 15 all of Italy celebrates Ferragosto.

We choose to spend this public holiday in the region of Trentino Alto Adige, in the Dolomite mountains. In the Province of Bolzano, there is a breathtaking alpine and mountainous area called Renon Ritten. Every August 15 in the town of Soprabolsano Obrbozen a community tradition called La Festività di Ferragosto a Soprabolzano 'Kirchtag' takes place. 

The celebration resembles more of an October fest then any other Ferragusto festival we have experienced in Italy.

There is a parade with many traditional costumes and bands. In the afternoon there will be polka music, beer, pretzels, frankfurters, local desserts and even a special sausage called Weisswurst. Food and drinks are sold and served by volunteers of the community.

There are many games for both the children and adults to play. Some of these games we have only seen here, such as the magical fishing game and the old fashioned hand pushed carousel. 

When visiting this region, it is easy to forget you are in Italy. The town of Soprabolzano is very close to the border of Austria. The primary language spoken by residents is German, followed by Italian.

This part of Italy is unique because the villages all have two names. The first is usually the Italian name followed by the German name. For example, the festival takes place in the town of Soprabolsano , also known by the German name of Obrbozen.

Of course, there is the Austrian influence on food and wine too. While there are some great white wines produced in this area, you are just as likely to find an excellent Hefeweizen beer too.

There are many great reasons to visit Renon Ritten. In addition to the local festivals, there are some fantastic hiking and biking trails. When the temperature soars above 95 degrees in Tuscany, we escape to the majestic Dolomite mountains where the daytime temps hover around 65. The area of Renon makes for a great summer getaway.

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