Barthlmastag – Almabtrieb on the Rittner Horn

A centuries-old tradition on the Ritten plateau

The Barthlmastag is one of the most cherished events in the farming calendar on the Ritten (Renon) plateau, in the heart of South Tyrol, in the province of Bolzano. The festival is celebrated around August 24th, the feast day of St. Bartholomew, protector of shepherds and farmers, and marks the culmination of the alpine grazing season. After a summer spent in high-altitude pastures at the foot of the Rittner Horn, the herds are brought down to the valley in a ritual that blends agricultural labor, devotion, and community celebration.

The Almabtrieb: the heart of the festival

The most anticipated moment is the Almabtrieb (autumnal transhumance), which takes place at noon on the Rittner Alm, near the historic Schian-Alm. The saltner (Ritten shepherds) gather the livestock that grazed during the summer and lead them down to the valley in a noisy, colorful procession, accompanied by the characteristic Goasslschnöllen (cracking of long whips), traditional calls, and the lowing of the animals. Since 1927, the scene has been accompanied by the Wangen brass band (Musikkapelle Wangen), joined by alphorn players whose melodies resonate across the meadows.

From the Rittner Alm to Pemmern

In the first part of the day, the festival enlivens the alpine pastures with a mass in the woods and refreshments at Tann and the Feltuner Hütte, while mountain specialties are served at the Saltner Hütte. After the noon highlight, the celebration slowly descends toward Pemmern, where the Almfest transforms into a true Wiesenfest (meadow festival). In the afternoon, the atmosphere becomes convivial: grilled sausages, freshly fried krapfen, a rich program for children, and live music until evening.

Flavors and atmosphere

Barthlmastag is also an opportunity to discover South Tyrolean peasant cuisine and products from the Ritten masi (farmsteads). Among the market stalls and food stands, you can breathe in the authentic alpine tradition in a spectacular natural setting, with views of the Dolomites and the unmistakable landscape of the Ritten Earth Pyramids.

• Municipality: Ritten/Renon (Province of Bolzano)
• Region: Trentino-South Tyrol
• Locations: Rittner Alm, Schian-Alm, Pemmern
• Music: Musikkapelle Wangen and alphorn players

Easily accessible from Bolzano via the Ritten cable car and the Rittner Horn gondola, Barthlmastag is one of the most authentic ways to experience the folklore and agricultural traditions of South Tyrol.