Tradition Meets Innovation at Albania’s “Të Vjelat Fest”

Tradition, wine, and rural development came together in a warm atmosphere at “Të Vjelat Fest.” The event took place at “Mani” Winery, in the heart of Gruemirë village.
The festival marked the start of the Kallmet grape harvest. It also promoted wine tourism and sustainable agritourism in Albania.
“Të Vjelat Fest” brought together tour operators, wineries, agritourism businesses, local officials, experts, and young people. They share a common vision: a more developed and welcoming rural Albania. Through Kallmet grape varieties, participants experienced the wine production process and the local culture up close.
This event shows how Albanian wines, agricultural heritage, and authentic experiences can boost tourism and strengthen the local economy.
The event was organized with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the German GIZ project. The focus is on empowering rural communities through agritourism and innovation.
GIZ’s SRD II program supports 200 small and medium businesses in hospitality, gastronomy, agritourism, and nature tourism. It offers training on customer service, food safety, waste management, and building quality, sustainable tourism.
Funded by the governments of Germany, Switzerland, and the UK, the program runs from 2023 to 2026. It aims to create jobs, boost local development, and link tradition with innovation.
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