Der traditionelle Huangort – Folk Music Festival

The traditional Huangort at Castel Tirolo

Der traditionelle Huangort is the folk music festival that brings Castel Tirolo (Schloss Tirol) to life every spring. This fortress, which dominates the entrance to the Val Venosta above Merano, gave its name to the entire Tyrolean region. In the municipality of Tirolo (Dorf Tirol), in the province of Bolzano, the event attracts enthusiasts and curious visitors for an afternoon of singing, instrumental music, folk dancing, and poetry in dialect.

What is a "Huangort"?

In the South Tyrolean dialect, the word Huangort (or "Huangart") describes an informal and convivial meeting between people who share the same interests: they gather to play, sing, dance, and above all to "huangart'n", which means to chat freely. It is a tradition deeply rooted in the alpine culture of Tirolo and South Tyrol, where folk music is not a stage performance but an occasion for social connection and community.

The Program

The festival takes place in the afternoon with free admission and features:

• Folk singing from Tyrol and South Tyrol
• Instrumental music performed by folk groups and ensembles
• Traditional dancing (Volkstanz)
• Poetry and recitations in dialect (Mundartgedichte)

The various groups are stationed in the courtyards and spaces of the castle, creating a musical trail that the public can freely explore while strolling through the medieval walls of the fortress.

A unique setting in South Tyrol

Castel Tirolo is not just the backdrop for the event, but an integral part of its identity. The castle, built around 1100, was the residence of the Counts of Tyrol for centuries and now houses the Historical-Cultural Museum of the Province of Bolzano. Experiencing the Huangort means immersing yourself in folk music while simultaneously exploring over eight centuries of South Tyrolean history, with views stretching over the Merano basin and the surrounding vineyards.

An event for everyone

Thanks to free admission and its spontaneous atmosphere, the traditional Huangort is an event suitable for families, folk music fans, and visitors who wish to discover the authentic traditions of Tyrol. It is a perfect opportunity to savor the warmth of South Tyrolean culture in one of the most fascinating locations in South Tyrol.