by Nastassja Martin
Interviews: Maurizio Giudici, President of Federalberghi Trieste; Everest Bertoli, Councilor for Financial Policies, Municipality of Trieste; Roberto Morelli, President of the Generali Convention Center
A new beer festival celebrating Central European brewing traditions, regional cuisine and live entertainment will debut in Trieste from October 30 to November 3, bringing five days of concerts, food and family activities to the city’s waterfront redevelopment district.
Called Bora Bier Fest, the event will take place at Magazzino 28 inside the Generali Convention Center in Porto Vecchio–Porto Vivo, an area increasingly used for cultural and public events. Organizers presented the festival on Friday alongside city officials, tourism representatives and business leaders.
Municipal authorities described the inaugural edition as the beginning of what they hope will become a recurring fixture in Trieste’s annual events calendar rather than a rival to Munich’s Oktoberfest. Instead, they framed the festival as a celebration of the city’s historical ties to the Habsburg Empire and its Central European identity.
According to organizers, the festival also coincides with the 260th anniversary of Trieste’s first license for beer production, granted during the reign of Empress Maria Theresa, when brewing became part of the city’s commercial development.
A tourism strategy beyond peak season
Local tourism officials said the festival is designed to extend visitor activity beyond the busy autumn period dominated by the Barcolana sailing regatta. Maurizio Giudici, president of Federalberghi Trieste, said events scheduled in late October help support hotels and businesses during a traditionally quieter season.
The Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, through PromoTurismoFVG, is supporting the event’s promotion across northeastern Italy as well as neighboring Slovenia, Austria and Carinthia, reflecting Trieste’s position at the crossroads of the region.
Beer, cuisine and family activities
The festival will feature beer tastings alongside traditional Central European dishes, with the kitchen operating throughout the event. Evening concerts and live performances will accompany the food program, while a dedicated Baby Area will offer games and entertainment for children.
Admission to all events will be free.
Opening hours
| Date | Hours |
|---|---|
| Friday, Oct. 30 | 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. |
| Saturday, Oct. 31 | Noon – Midnight |
| Sunday, Nov. 1 | Noon – 11 p.m. |
| Monday, Nov. 2 | 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. |
| Tuesday, Nov. 3 | Noon – 10 p.m. |
For information, visitors can contact info@borabierfest.it
