First held in 1886, Merano's "Festa dell'Uva" is over a hundred years old. This year's festivities are set for October 18-19 in this hospitable and charming Alto Adige town. On Saturday, concerts will accompany leisurely strolls along the Passirio River. On Sunday, the main event: a procession of a dozen cart 'floats', decorated to themes related to wine and grapes--subjects close to the hearts of locals in this region well-known for its wine production. Topping of the parade, groups of folkdancers in traditional Alto Adige dress perform. Sunday's activities draw to a close with a gala concert performed in the evening in the lovely Kursaal (town hall).

For further details contact : Azienda di soggiorno di Merano, ph. 0473-23523.

But grapes are not the sole protagonists on the autumn stage in Merano. Chestnuts play a large and tasty role as well. The Törgellen, an ancient country tradition, is revived in huts and trattorias where must and vino novello are uncorked to accompany the rich taste of roasted chestnuts and other regional delights such as salami, speck, cheeses, sauerkraut and jelly-filled doughnuts. A booklet has been created for the event, listing typical eateries and a schedule of when the various local delicacies are to be presented.

For further information contact : Consorzio Turistico Merano e dintorni, ph. 0473-212404

Guide of Guides: Merano