The Costume Parade: A Tradition That Marches Every Year
One of the most cherished and beloved events in Val Gardena is undoubtedly the traditional costume parade, held every year on the first Sunday of August. Rotating among the towns of Ortisei, Santa Cristina, and Selva, the event is a true explosion of color, music, and Ladin pride. Each edition has a different theme, but the authentic spirit remains the same: to honor the culture and history of the valley.
The day begins with the arrival of musical bands, choirs, and folk groups from Val Gardena and other parts of South Tyrol. The most awaited moment comes in the afternoon, when the parade itself takes place amid applause and camera flashes, in a joyful and engaging atmosphere.
The Traditional Gardena Costume: A Symbol of Identity and Belonging
The traditional Gardena costume is considered one of the most beautiful and elaborate in all of South Tyrol. In the past, this attire was not just festive decoration but a distinctive sign of the person wearing it. Every detail had a specific meaning and told something about the wearer’s life — often indicating their family status and age.
Married women wore a yellow shawl and their hair in a bun, while unmarried women displayed a red shawl and braids. For men, the waistcoat revealed marital status: if decorated with floral motifs, it indicated marriage; if plain red, it meant the man was still single.
Among the common features for all, no festive day was complete without the black hat with a tassel (the so-called Cneidl) and the long black coat known as the “Bagana.” But the true masculine pride was the finely decorated leather belt, often adorned with embroidery made from feather quills, showcasing both craftsmanship and personality.
The Val Gardena costume parade is much more than a celebration — it is a ritual of identity that keeps the Ladin spirit alive, a bridge between past and present that moves every generation.
