How the Do the Right Thing Fair Shaped Trento Over the Years
The “Do the Right Thing” fair in Trento – known locally as Fa’ la cosa giusta! Trento – is more than just a trade fair. It represents a vibrant and enduring celebration of ethical consumption, environmental sustainability and social solidarity within the heart of the Trentino region. Rooted in principles of justice, respect for people and the planet, this event brings together communities, producers, cooperatives and citizens in an annual dialogue about what it truly means to make conscious choices in everyday life. The official site for this event, https://falacosagiustatrento.org/, serves as a continuous hub for information, support, and engagement around the fair’s mission and activities.
Origins and Conceptual Foundation
The idea of Fa’ la cosa giusta! – literally “Do the Right Thing!” – is not unique to Trento; it is inspired by a broader Italian tradition of fairs dedicated to critical consumption and sustainable lifestyles. These fairs began gaining momentum in Italy in the early 2000s, with early roots particularly tied to Milan’s well‑known national edition. Over time the concept spread to other cities, including Trento, Umbria and Sicily, as part of a nationwide movement aimed at reshaping how people think about production, consumption, work and community.
In Trento, the fair was established as a local adaptation of this national phenomenon, responding to growing interest within the Trentino community for economic models that value human dignity, environmental integrity and local cultural identity. From the beginning, the fair sought to bring together those who produce and those who consume in a space that fosters learning, collaboration and ethical engagement.
Growth and Development in Trento
Since its inception, the fair has grown in scale and sophistication. Fa’ la cosa giusta! Trento has been held annually for nearly two decades, with the event evolving in response to changing social and ecological challenges. For example, in 2024 the fair marked its twentieth edition, gathering over 150 exhibitors from across Italy and occupying more than 6,000 square meters of exhibition space.
The fair’s programming reflects a holistic approach to sustainable living. Exhibitors include organic farmers, fair trade artisans, social cooperatives and purpose‑driven companies, each offering goods and services aligned with principles of eco‑friendliness, fairness and community support. Alongside market stalls, Fa’ la cosa giusta! Trento hosts a range of workshops, labs and discussions where visitors can learn about everything from sustainable agriculture and renewable energy to ethical fashion and inclusive economic practices.
Mission and Values
At its core, the Do the Right Thing fair aims to stimulate reflection and action on the role of consumption in shaping society. Rather than simply selling products, the fair encourages attendees to consider the broader impacts of their daily choices. The organizers promote a model of economy that is attentive to the needs of all – environment, workers, consumers and future generations.
This mission aligns with the activities of several local associations that work year‑round to further economic solidarity, such as Trentino Arcobaleno and various Solidarity Purchasing Groups (GAS), which support producers and consumers committed to fair, transparent trade relations.
Navigating Challenges and Innovations
The fair has also faced challenges that reflect broader global issues. During the COVID‑19 pandemic, like many large events, Fa’ la cosa giusta! Trento experienced disruptions, including cancellations and adaptations to safety requirements. In response, organizers developed the falacosagiustatrento.org platform as a virtual ecosystem to sustain community engagement even when the physical fair could not be held. This digital space included news updates, producer directories and event information that continued the fair’s impact beyond the exhibition halls.
Additionally, the fair has had to adapt to the increasing mainstreaming of sustainable themes. What was once considered a niche focus on environmental and ethical consumption has now become part of broader public discourse, making the fair’s mission both more widely understood and more widely practiced in everyday life.
Cultural and Community Impact
The influence of the Do the Right Thing fair in Trento extends beyond its three days of exhibitions. Locally it has become a cultural touchstone, shaping how people think about community, economy and the environment. Schools use the fair as a reference point for sustainability education, integrating visits and projects into their curricula. Civic organizations draw on the event’s network to develop year‑round initiatives aimed at reinforcing values of social justice and ecological responsibility.
The fair also helps strengthen local economic circuits. By spotlighting regional producers and ethical businesses, it encourages economic activity that circulates within the community, supporting smaller entrepreneurs and reinforcing local supply chains. This connection between local commerce and sustainable values is a core part of Trento’s identity as a city that balances innovation with tradition.
A Bridge to the National Movement
While rooted in regional identity, Fa’ la cosa giusta! Trento is also part of a larger national network of similar fairs across Italy. This connection allows ideas generated in Trento to contribute to broader dialogues on sustainability and social transformation. Events in Milan, for example, often provide inspiration and shared frameworks that Trento adapts to its local context.
This national linkage gives the Trento fair added significance: it is not just a local event but part of a national ecosystem advocating for change in consumption and lifestyle patterns. Through shared values and exchanged practices, this network amplifies the voices and innovations emerging from each local edition.
The Future of the Fair
Looking forward, the Do the Right Thing fair in Trento continues to evolve with the times. The 2025 edition is scheduled to take place in late October, extending the tradition of gathering citizens, producers and activists in a festive and reflective space. It promises to bring new ideas, solutions and collaborations to address contemporary challenges in sustainability and critical consumption.
As sustainable lifestyles become more integrated into mainstream behavior, the fair remains a vital forum for deepening understanding and expanding practice. Its continued success will depend on its ability to stay true to its founding values – promoting justice, supporting solidarity economies, and celebrating community action – while remaining responsive to new global and local realities.
Conclusion
The history of the Do the Right Thing fair in Trento is a story of community commitment, creative adaptation and steadfast belief in the power of responsible choices. From its early years inspired by national movements to its current status as a key regional event, Fa’ la cosa giusta! Trento has carved out a unique role in supporting sustainable economic practices and social solidarity. By intertwining markets, knowledge exchange and cultural participation, and by maintaining a robust online presence at https://falacosagiustatrento.org/, the fair continues to inspire people to act ethically, live sustainably and support a fairer world for all.
