Lived Tradition - Unique Customs in Tyrol

Every country has its traditional celebrations, which often represent a successful mixture of tradition and modernity and convey a very special attitude to life. This is also the case in Tyrol, where numerous festivals are celebrated throughout the year amidst a picturesque natural backdrop.

The Imster Schemenlaufen, for example, is very well-known, taking place every four years and representing the climax of the carnival. The roots of the event date back to the 16th century and represent the triumph of spring over winter. The running begins with a carnival mass, and at exactly twelve o'clock, the individual masks such as bears, Sackner, witches, or Kübelemaje and the larger "Aufzugswagelen" form up for the traditional parade, which only men are allowed to participate in. The custom of 'Grasausläuten', which is usually practiced at the end of April after Easter Sunday, also says goodbye to winter. Then, young men in some Tyrolean communities walk through the streets and put the saying 'You can hear the grass grow' into action. They have loud bells tied around their waist, with which they want to encourage the grass to grow. They also stop at houses and farms, where they receive doughnuts or a small donation for their ringing.

The traditional Gauder Fest is also a special attraction, taking place annually on the first weekend of May in Zell am Ziller. This festival originated from the Gauder Kirchtag, which was first mentioned in 1428. 'Gauder' is derived from the so-called 'Gauderlehen', a property of the Zillertal Bier brewery, where the festival was originally held. Today, the event attracts thousands of spectators each year, who are especially looking forward to the largest traditional costume parade in Austria as well as 'Ranggeln' - a wrestling match between two men.

The Almabtrieb is also celebrated in style, a colorful spectacle in which the animals are driven back to their home farms. The cows are then decorated with flowers, ribbons, and bells, numerous stands offer Tyrolean specialties to try, and many folk groups warmly welcome the 'returnees'.