Kastelruther Bauernhochzeit

A journey into the past through tradition and costume

The Kastelruther Bauernhochzeit — the farmers' wedding of Castelrotto — is one of the most evocative winter events in South Tyrol. In mid-January, the historic center of Castelrotto/Kastelruth, in the province of Bolzano, comes alive with extraordinary philological care, recreating an ancient farmers' wedding as it was once celebrated at the foot of the Alpe di Siusi, the largest high-altitude alpine meadow in Europe.

Why weddings were held in winter

The choice of the cold season is no coincidence: in the farming world, weddings took place in winter, when work in the fields and stables allowed for a break. Spring and summer were entirely dedicated to the farm and the harvest. The bride and groom were taken to the church on festively decorated sleighs, in a journey that was anything but monotonous: relatives and acquaintances would create obstacles along the way, and the bride could even be "kidnapped" as part of a ritual game still reenacted today.

The sleigh procession

The highlight is the wedding procession that crosses the snow-covered fields to the village square. Between fifteen and twenty-five beautifully decorated horse-drawn sleighs carry the entire wedding party — from the bride and groom to the Marender and the master of ceremonies who invites guests to the wedding. The presentation takes place on the church steps, with explanations of rural wedding customs and the costumes worn.

Authentic local costumes

What makes this event unique is its authenticity: the Trachten worn do not come from folklore associations or rental shops, but exclusively from the private wardrobes of Castelrotto families. These are the same garments that the inhabitants still wear today for religious celebrations and private parties, passed down from generation to generation.

The Hoazetkuchl and the costume museum

Alongside the procession, the village comes alive with music, entertainment, and culinary specialties. There is also the Hoazetkuchl, the traditional wedding kitchen, serving soups, desserts, and cheeses typical of farmers' weddings. During the day, it is also possible to visit the Costume Museum at Ansitz Laechler, which preserves and recounts the textile and sartorial heritage of the valley.

Organized by the Castelrotto Tourist Association, the Bauernhochzeit is a free, open-air event that attracts thousands of visitors, offering a vivid and authentic glimpse into the South Tyrolean culture of the Trentino-Alto Adige region.