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From Ferragosto to Halloween: Events at Thiene Castle Featuring Exclusive Tours, Music, and Magic

Summer is in full swing, but Thiene Castle is already looking ahead to a packed calendar of events running from August through autumn.

Featuring extraordinary guided tours, special openings, live concerts, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities, the castle invites visitors to explore its rich history from August to October—including spaces normally closed to the public.

Special Tours in August

 
August kicks off with a variety of unique experiences designed to showcase the castle in different lights.
 

August 14 – Castle Under the Stars

On Friday, August 14, join an atmospheric night tour to see the castle in a completely new light. As the sun sets and evening falls, the frescoed halls, quiet courtyards, and architectural details take on an intimate, enchanting feel. Guided by experts sharing captivating stories and secrets, this peaceful evening tour offers an unforgettable way to experience the estate.
 

August 15 – Ferragosto at the Castle: Art and History

On Saturday, August 15, Thiene Castle will open its doors for Ferragosto (August Bank Holiday) during standard summer hours (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM). It is the perfect day trip for art and history lovers looking to admire 15th-century frescoes, elegant reception rooms, and the famous loggia courtyard.
 
 

Third Sunday Openings: Access Restricted Areas

On Sunday, August 16 and Sunday, September 20, special guided tours will open up areas usually off-limits to the public.
Visitors can step inside the Gothic Chapel, the ancient kitchens, and the fascinating 16th-century underground tunnels for an authentic look into centuries of castle history.
 
 

Secret Tour: Discover Hidden Places with Veneto Segreto

In partnership with Veneto Segreto—an organization dedicated to highlighting the region’s cultural heritage—the castle offers two new dates to explore its most mysterious corners.
On Sunday, August 23 and Sunday, September 27 (with multiple time slots available), the "Secret Tour" takes visitors beyond the main visitor routes.
You will gain exclusive access to the old main kitchen, underground vaults, and private chambers filled with fascinating lore.

 

Magic Comes to Thiene Castle

 

This summer, the castle turns into a real School of Magic for kids and young adults across three separate sessions:

* August 25–27
* August 28–30
* September 4–6

For three days, young apprentices will enjoy an immersive fantasy experience filled with lessons, challenges, games, and quests led by professional actors and entertainers—making it one of the most anticipated family events of the season.

 
 

September: A Month of Music and Culture

 

September brings live music and artistic masterclasses to the historic halls of Thiene Castle.

From August 31 to September 13, the castle hosts the Piano and Chamber Music Masterclass taught by Maestro Massimo Somenzi. Young musicians will refine their skills in an inspiring, historic setting.

 
Music takes center stage again from September 8 to 13 with the 2nd edition of "Castello in Musica", bringing live concerts, artist meetings, and musical performances straight into the grand rooms of the estate.
 

Autumn Events: History, Theater, and Halloween

The events continue throughout autumn with new experiences dedicated to exploring history, historical archives, and performing arts.

October 3 – Carte in Dimora: Archives and History

On October 3, "Carte in Dimora" celebrates the castle's historical archives and documents. Visitors can explore ancient manuscripts and records detailing the long history of the castle and its inhabitants.
Participation in this archive initiative is free (reservation required), while general castle visits run from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (standard entry fee applies).
 

October 17 – The Taming of the Shrew

On Saturday, October 17, as part of Venetian Villa Day ("Giornata delle Ville Venete"), the castle hosts a special live performance of William Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew".
Set in 16th-century Padua, this energetic comedy brings theater to life within a stunning heritage backdrop.
 
 

October 31 – Urban Trekking: In Search of the Essential

On October 31, Thiene participates in the 23rd National Urban Trekking Day. The 2026 theme, 'Saint Francis 1226–2026: In Search of the Essential,' focuses on water and its vital role throughout the city's history. 
This guided walking route explores local fountains, historic wells, and water features across town. A highlight of the tour is Thiene Castle, where visitors will discover the ancient wellhead (Vera da Pozzo), the historical canal, the old icehouse, and the site of the castle's former pond.
The easy 2.6-kilometer (1.6-mile) itinerary takes approximately three hours to complete. Tours depart from Thiene Town Hall (Municipio di Thiene) with two available time slots at 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM.

Learn more and book your spot

October 31 – SALEM: Halloween at Thiene Castle

On October 31, Thiene Castle dons a veil of magic and mystery for SALEM – Halloween at Thiene Castle, a family-friendly afternoon experience created for children of all ages. From 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM, the historic estate comes alive with Halloween-themed games, creative workshops, interactive challenges, magic potions, and gentle thrills for young adventurers.

The event combines drop-in activities with timed scheduled events so families can explore at their own pace. The afternoon begins at 2:30 PM with Witches' Face Painting, the Great Pumpkin Challenge featuring pumpkin carving and decorating, and the Witch's Lair, a mini spooky trail for brave little guests.

At 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM, apprentice wizards can step into the Witch's Kitchen to craft their own magical potions. Team players can join the Halloween Challenges at 3:30 PM and 4:30 PM to solve themed riddles and interactive quests. The event concludes with two special award ceremonies: the best pumpkin is crowned at 4:30 PM, followed by the winning team announcement right after the final challenge.

It is the perfect afternoon of creativity, play, and spooky fun within the historic setting of Thiene Castle.

Learn more and book your spot

And for the bravest visitors, true fear comes alive after dark!

Test your courage in the immersive Halloween adventure SALEM, an interactive evening experience featuring multiple showtimes starting from 6:30 PM. Step into the shadows and prepare for a thrill as night falls over the castle grounds.

Discover the adventure and book your spot

Discover Thiene Castle All Year Round

From night tours and music masterclasses to immersive magic and Halloween scares, autumn at Thiene Castle offers something for everyone.
Spots are limited for many events, so booking in advance is strongly recommended.
 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can I book tickets for events at Thiene Castle?

You can book tickets directly through the event pages on the official Thiene Castle website.
Each event features full details, schedules, and direct booking links:
https://www.castellodithiene.com/en/

Where can I book the August 14 Night Tour?

Visit the official Night Tour page for schedule details and online reservations: https://www.castellodithiene.com/en/events/guided-tour-by-night-14-august
 

How do I book the Third Sunday tours?

Check the dedicated page for the August 16 and September 20 special tours to reserve your entry:
https://www.castellodithiene.com/en/events/guided-tours/sundays-at-the-castle/sunday-16-august-2026

Where can I find information about the Secret Tour?

Details on time slots and bookings for the August 23 and September 27 Secret Tours are available here:
https://www.castellodithiene.com/en/events/guided-tours/secret-veneto/secret-tour-con-veneto-segreto-23-august-2026

How do I sign up for the School of Magic?

The School of Magic runs across three sessions (Aug 25–27, Aug 28–30, Sep 4–6). You can review details and complete registration on the official page: https://www.castellodithiene.com/en/news/italian-school-of-magic-at-castello-di-thiene

How can I book tickets for "Castello in Musica"?

Concert schedules, program details, and ticket reservations for the festival are available here: https://www.castellodithiene.com/en/events/concerti/music-at-the-castle-2-edition

How do I book tickets for "The Taming of the Shrew"?

Information and booking links for the October 17 performance are located on the dedicated event page: https://www.castellodithiene.com/en/events/the-taming-of-the-shrew

Do I need to book in advance for the Salem Witches' Village on October 31?

Advance booking is recommended for the Salem Witches' Village—the family-friendly Halloween event at Thiene Castle on October 31—so you can skip the line at the entrance.

For full details and the complete event schedule, visit the official page: https://www.castellodithiene.com/en/events/saem-the-witches-village

How can I book the Salem Immersive Adventure on October 31?

To participate in the Salem Immersive Adventure on October 31, 2026, at Thiene Castle, advance booking is required through the official event page: https://www.castellodithiene.com/en/events/salem-horror-experience

Please note: This show is intended for audiences comfortable with high-tension, scary adventure trails. Children under 14 must be accompanied and supervised by a responsible adult.

Is booking always required?

Entry requirements vary by event. Booking is mandatory for certain tours and highly recommended for others due to limited capacity. Always check the specific event page before visiting.

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