Genuine and Authentic Customs

Upper Austria is one of Austria’s remaining strongholds of genuine and authentic customs.

Genuine and Authentic Customs Experience centuries-old folk traditions that are unique to this region, that form and mould the identity of its communities and that tie together the picturesque villages and towns.

„Glöcklerlauf“ Processions
Staying in Salzkammergut Lake District for the Christmas season, you can experience centuries-old Christmas folk traditions that are unique to this region: Every year on January 05, the eve of Epiphany, groups of white-dressed men meet at nightfall, wearing heavy lanterns on their heads to tour the streets of town. In addition, the men wear broad leather belts with heavy bells (“Glocken” in German) attached. The aim of this unique parade is to shed light during the dark winter months and to reawake nature from its winter sleep.

Carnival
During carnival season, traditional parades and celebrations take place in many Upper Austrian towns. Every year especially the lakeside village of Ebensee is the setting for crazy carnival antics. In a colorful parade across the entire village the jesters make fun of local political events.

Liebstatt Sunday in Gmunden
"Liebstatt Sunday" is derived from "Liebe abstatten" (meaning "to convey love"). Gmunden's favorite tradition is held annually on the fourth Sunday in Lent. This is when romance comes in the form of sweet-tasting and lovingly decorated gingerbread hearts - and can sweep that special someone right off her/his feet and into your arms.

Corpus Christi Processions
The colorful Corpus Christi Processions are the first highlights of the summer.

Each year, picturesque Salzkammergut serve as stunning backdrop for an exceptional ecclesiastical spectacle: The Lake Procession.

Summer Solstice Fires
Every year on June 23, the eve before the Feast of John the Baptist, mountain fires are burning throughout Upper Austria. The solemn event brings solstice celebrations and midsummer nights.

In September, farming villages all over Upper Austria round up the herds for the great autumn cattle drive. The end of the harvest season is celebrated with a special church service. Beautiful displays, typically of colorful fruit and vegetables as well as grains and breads, are set up before the altar as symbols of gratitude to God. Especially in rural areas, the end of the harvest is cause for lively celebrations. And with fall and winter well underway, Upper Austria sees the celebration of traditional and romantic Christmastime festivities.

Christmas Markets
The season kicks off in late November with the Christmas markets, installed at towns and villages throughout the province, and held in the afternoons and evenings from Advent until the holiday itself. This is where holiday momentum really builds, culminating in celebrations.