Every year, since August 1992, the historic center of Montalto delle Marche transforms into a place of enchantment and wonder thanks to the Night of Witches and Elves. Born from the passion of a group of local citizens, the event has grown over the years to become a must-see experience for families and enthusiasts of all ages. More than thirty years have passed since the first edition, and thanks to the Streghe e Folletti Association, the preparation and organization of the festival has become a tradition passed down from generation to generation, now involving around 150 performers and over 300 staff members. During the three days of the festival—August 12, 13, and 14—Montalto transforms into a true enchanted village. The streets fill with fairies, witches, and fairy-tale characters; the squares become stages for street performers, magicians, and musicians; and every corner of the village bursts with color, music, and magic. Anyone entering the Enchanted Village is welcomed into a magical world where fairy tales come to life, and amid music, laughter, shows, and games, the festival reaches its climax with the evocative burning of the witch at midnight on August 14. The Night of Witches and Elves is not just an event for children, but an experience for the whole family. Numerous activities—from interactive games to live performances, from creative workshops to concerts—along with various food points to satisfy all tastes, ensure that every participant can enjoy moments of joy and fun. It is a unique festival that combines magic and spectacle for all ages. With its enchanting atmosphere and engaging activities, it is an unmissable event celebrating the power of fairy tales and fantastical stories. The magic of the August festival is the magic of a community coming together, collaborating, and putting its talents and energy into preserving a tradition, so that future generations can experience the same wonder. Montalto is truly a “fairy-tale village,” and it has celebrated this spirit by naming its Municipal Theatre the Theatre of Fairy Tale and Poetry. Among other things, it hosts every year “IL PAESE INCANTATO”, a literary prize for children from preschool through secondary school, giving voice to the places of the territory through the writing of fairy tales.
For more information about the festival: https://www.lanottedellestregheedeifolletti.com/
