Unika - Exhibition

You may be forgiven for thinking that Dolomites Val Gardena is only known for its hiking trails, its ski slopes, and its great hospitality. However, Val Gardena was also afforded international fame thanks to the local art of woodcarving. Every year, towards the end of the summer, guests have the opportunity to admire the newest works of local artists during the Unika art fair.

In September visitors will be able to take part in a very special event: since 1994 Unika has provided a platform for local and regional artists to showcase their sculptures, paintings and photography. Every year Unika artists attend and present their works at various events, fairs and exhibitions. Highlights include the Unika Sculpture Fair and the Idea Unika – Art in the Centre event organised every two years. The selective Unika Sculpture Fair can look back proudly over 30 years of success, with over one hundred artists having over the years presented their works to an audience of critics and art lovers. The jubilee edition 2019 featured internationally renowned names in the art world including Aron Demetz, Peter Demetz, Bruno Walpoth, Gregor Prugger, Wilhelm Senoner, a.s.o.

From 10 to 13 September 2026, the 32nd UNIKA Art Fair will take place at the Runggaditsch Tennis Center in Val Gardena. From Thursday to Sunday, between 10:00 am and 7:00 pm, art lovers can discover a high-quality exhibition dedicated to local craftsmanship and contemporary art.

UNIKA has become a key cultural event in the Dolomites. The exhibition showcases the ongoing commitment to preserving and developing the region’s unique artistic heritage. Set across an exhibition area of over 500 m², visitors are invited to explore around 200 selected artworks, including sculptures, paintings and photographs. The pieces on display combine traditional techniques with modern artistic expression, reflecting both the roots and the evolution of Val Gardena’s art scene. Each artwork stands out for its craftsmanship, material quality and individual creative vision, offering an authentic insight into the diversity and vitality of local artistic production.

The vernissage will take place on 09.09.2026 at 7.00 pm.

“UNIKA’s LONG Night” on 10 September and 12 September 2026 at 8:00 pm

Of course, the popular “Long Night” is back as well – and this year there will be two of them. Two special evenings will take place under the motto “prameisa”, meaning “at the table”. For these events, young chef Carolina Moroder brings art and cuisine together to create a special experience for all the senses. During the dinner held within the art fair, she will serve an exclusive four-course menu to 40 guests per evening, accompanied by wines from Kettmeir Winery – creative, surprising and truly out of the ordinary. Naturally, UNIKA artists will also be present, offering guests the opportunity to meet them personally and learn more about their works directly from the creators.
Those wishing to attend should book quickly online: https://www.unika.org/de/unika-long-night/

Online tickets: Tickets for UNIKA 2026 can be purchased online in advance.

Free shuttle bus: once again this year a free shuttle bus will run daily between Ortisei and the Tennis Centre!