Arco has so much to offer for curious tourists - in addition to its rocky crags, the capital of sport climbing conquers visitors with its spectacular castle, gardens and palaces, not to mention the fascinating historic center. And there’s more! To make this Garda Trentino gem even more lively there are several interesting events throughout the year. Here are the ones you can’t miss!
The most important events in Arco
Rock Master
Since 1986, Arco has hosted Rock Master, the sport climbing world championship. The 2024 dates are September 13th and September 14th, and the competition will combine KO boulder and Lead Duel, with athletes challenging each other simultaneously on parallel routes of a high or very high difficulty level. It goes without saying that the whole of Arco around the Climbing Stadium is transformed for this great event, with parties, DJ sets, themed film screenings and much more.
Arco Carnival
In Arco, there’s a special Carnival tradition.The celebrations are inspired by the 19th century, when Emperor Franz Joseph moved his winter residence here, bringing with him many Habsburg nobles. Arco Carnival is still Habsburg-themed, with 19th-century atmosphere, costume balls, re-enactments and much more.
Arcobonsai
With its beautiful gardens, it goes without saying that Arco also hosts an important botanical event. Since 1985, the town has organized a conference dedicated to these very special plants. The event is held in spring, and includes an exhibition, a market and a trophy.
Music Festival
Another unmissable event in Arco is the Music Festival, which returns every year, filling the streets and squares of the historic center with concerts. The festival traditionally comes to life on the day of the summer solstice, when the city is taken over by a multitude of musicians, ranging from rock, folk, jazz, indie, electronic and many other genres. There are also dance companies!
Arco in vintage
A summer event in Garda Trentino that allows visitors to travel back in time, between the 1950s and the 1980s. There are gatherings for enthusiasts, parades, live concerts, dances, as well as obviously a great vintage market, where you can find clothes, accessories, hats, furniture, vinyl records and much more. Another highlight not to be missed is the arcade, for those who want to experience the thrill of being a child again with videogames from the 1980s.
Bike Transalp
The most fascinating amateur stage cycling race in Europe, bringing together participants from over 30 countries. The crossing of the Alps traditionally includes Garda Trentino, and in 2024 the arrival was in Arco.
Garda Trentino Trail
An international event that combines running and nature, with runners competing on the trails of Garda Trentino, on varied surfaces. The length is about 70 kilometers, with an altitude difference of over 4500 meters: the race runs between the lakes of Garda, Ledro and Tenno, arriving in the historic center of Arco.
Traubenkur
A traditional Tyrolean event that was lost in time, focusing on the pressing of grapes, with the possibility of tasting the must.
Christmas Market
Between November and January Arco hosts its Christmas market, creating a magical atmosphere with wooden houses, street artists, shows for adults and children, fireworks, re-enactments, as well as artistic craftsmanship and the food and wine delights of Garda Trentino.
Other markets of Arco
There are also regular markets in Arco. From the weekly market, held between Piazzale Foro Boario, Piazza Segantini and via Galas, on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month, to the monthly flea market, and the Arco farmers market every Tuesday, allowing producers and consumers to be in direct contact.