The second edition of Arbëria Digital Fest will take place in the Arbëresh villages of Carfizzi, Pallagorio and San Nicola dell’Alto in southern Italy. The festival aims to turn Arbëresh cultural heritage into a driver of local development.

The event will run from October 23 to 25 under the motto “Preserve, Attract, Create.”

Over three days, the festival will combine culture, tourism, innovation, digital communication and international cooperation. The programme will feature panels, workshops, podcasts, artistic performances and community events.

Meanwhile, Muzé – Spazio Arbëria in Pallagorio will serve as one of the main venues. Organizers will also hold activities in Carfizzi and San Nicola dell’Alto.

They aim to present the three communities as part of one connected territory. They will highlight their shared identity, heritage and vision for the future.

The programme will focus on three main areas: territorial marketing and tourism, relations with Albania and Kosovo, and innovation.

Participants will explore how the Arbëresh language, traditions, collective memory, gastronomy, art and landscapes can support new projects and tourism experiences. They will also discuss partnerships and opportunities for local economic growth.

Furthermore, this year’s edition will introduce “OPEN ARBËRIA”, a public art project by Arbëresh artist Michele Giudicissi.

Through the project, residents will transform house doors into artistic and narrative spaces. They will use symbols, words, images and memories from the local community.

The initiative will also include workshops and activities for children and young people.

The festival will expand beyond its main venues through the “Arbëria Digital Fest OFF” programme. It will bring visits, workshops, music, art, gastronomy and cultural activities directly into local communities.

For younger audiences, organizers have also planned “Arbëresh Remix”. The evening event will combine traditional Arbëresh songs with contemporary music.

Calabrian DJ Giovanni Salerno will perform at the event. Musicians Enzo Iovine and Pietro Curci, as well as storyteller Rocco Marco Moccia, will also take part.

Another highlight will be “POP ARBËRESH”, a podcast project that collects stories and voices from Arbëresh communities.

During the festival, producers will record a special episode with participants and guests. The project will connect generations, territories and personal experiences.

Ultimately, organizers want the festival to create a lasting impact beyond the three-day programme. They aim to develop new partnerships and projects and strengthen ties among Arbëresh communities, Albania, Kosovo, the Balkans and the wider diaspora throughout the year.

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