Transhumance Festival in Pescara: supporting the UNESCO bid for the

Transhumance Festival in Pescara: promoting the UNESCO nomination of the tratturi

Pescara is spotlighting the tratturi—historic droving routes—by supporting their nomination as a UNESCO heritage. The Transhumance Festival takes place over two days and features free, city-wide events including exhibitions, film screenings, workshops and performances that celebrate pastoral traditions and textile practices.

Main program

• 9 May 2026 – Festival opening with the exhibition “Popoli e terre della lana” at the Polo bibliotecario Aternino (free visits until 16 May); screening of the film Una storia lenta by Alessio Tessitore and start of workshops on traditional shepherd crafts.
• Ongoing activities – Workshops at the Museo delle Genti d'Abruzzo; readings and performances focusing on oral memory and textile traditions.
• 9 May evening – Shepherd's dinner with local dishes, Abruzzese folk music and a DJ set.
• 16 May 2026 – Second festival day: presentation of the book Pastorizia e transumanza. Radici e protagonisti by Nino Marinacci and closing performance by the Saltarello folk orchestra in Piazza Garibaldi (9:00 PM).

Why it matters

The UNESCO nomination of the tratturi aims to recognize both the physical routes and the associated intangible heritage: pastoral techniques, textile crafts, rituals and local knowledge tied to transhumance. The festival raises public awareness and fosters dialogue on protecting these cultural and landscape assets.

Practical information

• Entry: most events are free.
• Venues: Polo bibliotecario Aternino, Museo delle Genti d'Abruzzo, Piazza Garibaldi and other public spaces in Pescara.
• Tip: check the local program for exact times and any required bookings.