Kastelruther Spatzenfest

The great Volksmusik gathering in South Tyrol

The Kastelruther Spatzenfest is the most anticipated autumn event in Castelrotto/Kastelruth, a picturesque village in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, in the heart of Trentino-South Tyrol. Every year, at the beginning of October, the village at the foot of the Sciliar and the Alpe di Siusi becomes the meeting point for thousands of fans of Volksmusik, the German-language folk music that has one of its most beloved strongholds here.

The undisputed stars are the Kastelruther Spatzen, the most famous folk music group in the Alpine region, founded in Castelrotto in the early 1980s and having since become a phenomenon with millions of records sold. The festival bearing their name has grown to become one of the largest Volksmusik events in Europe, attracting tens of thousands of spectators over the long weekend.

Where it takes place: the Tirlerhof marquee

The event is held under a giant marquee set up at the Tirlerhof, about one kilometer from the center of Castelrotto, with a dedicated large parking area. The setting is the spectacular UNESCO-listed Dolomites of the Alpe di Siusi, which makes the atmosphere unique: concerts, choirs, brass bands, and accordions alternate amidst traditional costumes, South Tyrolean gastronomy, and plenty of conviviality.

An international event

Alongside the Kastelruther Spatzen, every edition brings to the stage some of the most famous stars of folk music from Germany, Austria, and South Tyrol. The program alternates evening concerts, an afternoon concert, and the traditional Sunday Frühschoppen with free admission, featuring autograph sessions and live music celebrations.

• Location: Castelrotto/Kastelruth, Autonomous Province of Bolzano
• Period: Early October, annually
• Genre: Volksmusik, Alpine folk music, Schlager
• Audience: Tens of thousands of visitors from across the Alps

South Tyrolean tradition and identity

The Kastelruther Spatzenfest is more than just a concert: it is a ritual that unites pride in South Tyrolean folk culture, a deep connection to the Sciliar territory, and the joy of coming together. For Castelrotto, it represents the iconic autumn event, when the village fills with fan clubs, coaches, and guests from the entire German-speaking area. An authentic experience for those wanting to discover the most traditional and festive side of South Tyrol.