Haflinger Kirchtag

A village festival at the foot of the Dolomites

The Haflinger Kirchtag is the traditional village festival of Avelengo/Hafling, a small municipality nestled on the sunny plateau of the same name at an altitude of about 1,300 meters, above Merano, in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano (Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol). The term Kirchtag, literally "church day," refers in South Tyrolean culture to the feast of the patron saint and the community: a moment of gathering that unites faith, music, and conviviality.

The brass band, the heart of the festival

The event is organized by the Musikkapelle Hafling, the local brass band, which has been hosting this festival every summer since the late 1970s near the church of Saint Catherine (St. Kathrein). The Kirchtag is both a popular tradition and the main event in the local social calendar: the band welcomes guest brass bands from neighboring towns in the Merano area, bringing two days of live music to life under a large marquee set up in the village square.

Two days of music and conviviality

The program typically spans two days. Saturday evening is dedicated to dance music and a festive atmosphere, with performances by guest groups that keep the marquee lively until late at night. Sunday begins with Holy Mass at the church of Saint Catherine, followed by celebrations featuring brass bands, a program of entertainment for families and children, and the traditional midday aperitif.

Flavors of South Tyrol

As in every South Tyrolean Kirchtag, cuisine and typical flavors play a leading role: traditional South Tyrolean dishes, desserts, beer, and local wines accompany the festive days. It is the ideal opportunity to savor mountain hospitality in an authentic setting, far from the most crowded tourist routes.

Why visit Avelengo

Avelengo/Hafling is famous as the cradle of the Haflinger horse, the equine breed originating from this very plateau. Participating in the Kirchtag means discovering a genuine corner of South Tyrol, amidst alpine meadows, mountain peak views, and a community that proudly preserves its traditions. The festival is a privileged moment to experience the identity of the Municipality of Avelengo and the festive atmosphere that characterizes the village festivals of South Tyrol.