Far from the tourist crowds of the high season, the mountains of Trentino and South Tyrol come back to life at Easter with events, morning skiing and afternoon walks.
Easter traditions differ from region to region
Easter in the Italian Alps is an immersion in local traditions linked to the cycles of nature with evenings in South Tyrol lit up by Osterfeuer Easter fires that are ancient symbols of rebirth and protection, while by day the sound of hand-operated wooden Ratschen instruments, replaces that of church bells. In Trentino, on the other hand, Easter is celebrated with processions, re-enactments of the Passion and the blessing of bread, eggs and focaccia. In many villages, the Easter period also coincides with local markets and community festivals that mark the beginning of the warm season.
Marching bands and coloured Easter eggs
On Saturday 4 April the historic centre of the village of Chiusa will host the traditional Easter market, with over 55 stalls offering typical products, crafts and gastronomic specialties. The Chiusa marching band will liven up the morning, and the traditional Easter game will involve young and old alike in the game of coloured eggs. The village of San Candido will come alive with family-friendly activities, such as an egg hunt in shop windows (from 14 March to 6 April 2026).
Val di Casies - ph credits: Kamilla
Walking trails and art installations
The Val Casies-Monguelfo- Tesido region in South Tyrol, with its panoramic views of the Dolomites, returns to green and walkable trails in spring. Among the many walks, the Via Lucis stands out as the first meditative trail in South Tyrol. Some seven kilometres long, the trail runs between San Martino and Karbachtal and is marked by 14 artistic installations inspired by the Easter holidays. There are plenty of attractions to visit in the same area, from Welsperg Castle, the oldest fortified complex in Alta Pusteria located a few minutes' walk from Monguelfo, to the Gothic and Romanesque Church of San Giorgio di Tesido which is one of the oldest in the Val Pusteria valley.
Val Casies ph credits: IDM Südtirol Manuel Kottersteger
Skiing well into spring
In spring you can still ski in numerous resorts in the area including Plan de Corones, open until 19 April, and Drei Zinnen Dolomites and San Candido, open until 12 April. With the Guest Pass – Gsiesertal-Welsberg-Taisten Card, free for guests of selected establishments, it is possible to use public transport throughout South Tyrol and enjoy discounts on spring activities. For information: www.gsieser-tal.com
