The free app named ARTIGIANATO VALDOSTANO has been conceived to promote the traditional craftsmanship of Aosta Valleys artisans and to offer the best possible experience to the vistitors of both the winter thousand-year old SantOrso fair and the summer Foire d’Été editions that take place in the historic city centre of Aosta.
Main SantOrso fair in Aosta
Every year more than 1000 exhibitors, represented by artists and artisans from Aosta Valley, show with pride the fruits of their work, born out of a hobby or a full-time profession. The Fair represents the identity of the people of Aosta Valley and celebrates the strong historical and cultural sense of belonging to their territory. The visitor will take part to a unique experience, surrounded by a magical atmosphere of daily sensations of millenary charm. A simple purchase or the memory of a peculiar moment will allow you to become the protagonist of the fair, which also includes music, folklore and an opportunity to enjoy food and wine tasting events. The festival carries on among traditional songs and dances during the night between 30 and 31 January with the famous "veillà" (the night before the event) when the town streets are lit up and lively until dawn.
SantOrso Fair in Donnas
Previously reserved only to the sale of farm tools crafted during winter time, the Donnas edition of the fair has morphed over time into a showcase of traditional craftsmanship produced inside and outside Aosta Valley. The fair usually takes place on Sundays, between 15 and 20 January.
The events connected to the fair normally start on Friday, from the veillà, a happy party that takes place in the cellars of the village. On Saturday the streets are lit by the traditional torchlight procession, anticipating the gathering of the artisans and an evening of music. The actual fair exhibition of objects crafted by some 500 artisans takes place on Sunday.
Foire dÉté
The "summer sister" of the thousand-year old SantOrso fair since 1969 is the highlight among the summer events, offering a comprehensive overview of Aosta Valleys craft production. The historical town centre of Aosta is animated by more than 600 exhibitors, divided into many traditional categories, each offering their works produced with different techniques and traditional manufacturing skills. The original materials of the crafts include ceramic, copper, glass, gold and silver. In addition to the traditional artifacts some products are created by adopting more modern materials and techniques.