The historic Lake and Guest Festival is set to celebrate its 57th edition, solidifying its place as one of the most established events in the summer calendar of Lake Garda. Organized by the Cuori Ben Nati group from Rivoltella with the sponsorship of the Municipality of Desenzano, the event will enliven the local port from August 7 to 10. This free-entry festival will offer a rich program that combines the region’s culinary traditions with evenings of music and entertainment, attracting both locals and tourists in a convivial atmosphere.
Culinary Offerings and Evening Entertainment
The heart of the festival will be its kitchens, open every evening starting at 7:00 PM. The menu will feature local specialties, including first courses like risotto and gnocchi, as well as traditional main dishes such as Brescia-style spit-roasted meat and pike in the barcarola style. Options like mixed fried fish, grilled meats, and slow-cooked donkey will also be available, all paired with wines from Zenato wineries. The organization, supported by around 200 volunteers, will ensure quality service for all guests. Each evening, starting at 9:30 PM, the stage will host different musical performances, kicking off with the “Bandino dei Cuori Ben Nati.”
Tournaments and Sports Activities
The program extends beyond food and music, incorporating moments dedicated to sports as well. On Saturday, August 9, a Beach Volleyball tournament will take place at the Spiaggia d’oro courts. The following day, Sunday, August 10, will feature a Table Football (pincanello) tournament starting at 9:00 AM at the Rivoltella beach, enhancing the entertainment offerings for all ages.
Words from the Organizers and Local Authorities
Valter Mesar, president of the Cuori Ben Nati, recalled the origins of the event: “So much time has passed since the early members of the group organized the first evenings at the port of Rivoltella, which has always been the foundation of our organization; now the Lake Festival is one of the longest-running events on Lake Garda and certainly the most anticipated.”
The mayor of Desenzano, Guido Malinverno, also shared his thoughts on the event: “This festival has always represented a moment of genuine sharing, where the beauty of our lake merges with the strength of our community. The year 2025 marks a further step forward: we not only celebrate a well-established tradition but also renew our commitment to sustainable hospitality, attentive and open to the world.” He then thanked the organizers, particularly the “Cuori Ben Nati group, the true beating heart of the festival, along with its new president Valter Mesar.”
Italian Version
