Grape Festival

Every year, on the first weekend of October, Capoliveri turns into an open-air stage where history, culture and passion come together in the evocative Grape Festival. This event is deeply felt not only by the village's residents, but by the entire island of Elba, as it celebrates the ancient rural traditions linked to the grape harvest, wine, and country life of the past.

The festival involves the town’s four historic districts – Fortezza, Fosso, Baluardo and Torre – which compete with enthusiasm and pride in traditional games, theatrical decorations, tastings and typical dishes.

• Fortezza (blue): once the heart of the castle and a safe haven against enemy attacks.
• Fosso (green): this area was likely surrounded by a moat that protected its inhabitants.
• Baluardo (dark red): represented the most advanced point of the old defensive system.
• Torre (yellow): a watchtower probably stood at the highest point, now lost.

Programme of the Grape Festival

On Friday, the district competitions begin with old-time games such as the barrel race, the grape pressing and the traditional tug of war. Saturday is dedicated to flavours: the historic centre comes alive with Elban wine tastings, typical local dishes and the gastronomic competition between the districts.

Sunday is the highlight of the festival: the morning begins with a costume parade in Piazza Matteotti. The jury visits each district, transformed into an authentic historical set. Later, the gates open to the public for a journey back in time with songs, dances and traditional food. The celebration continues late into the night in the winning district.

The Bacchus Trophy

The Bacchus trophy is the symbol of the festival and is awarded to the district that best represents its spirit. The winning district keeps the trophy for a year, adorned with a sash in its own colours.

The Grape Festival is not just a historical reenactment, but a true expression of collective identity. The main characters are the residents themselves, who become actors and guardians of a tradition that renews itself each year in an atmosphere that is heartfelt, emotional and deeply Elban.

Infoelba recommends: For updates and the full programme of the event, visit elbaeventi.it!