Kirchtag & Almabtrieb in Gais (Guasinga Kirschta)

The Guasinga Kirschta, the autumnal soul of Gais

The Kirchtag & Almabtrieb in Gais, known in the local dialect as Guasinga Kirschta, is one of the most cherished village festivals in the Taufers-Ahrntal valley (Tauferer Ahrntal), in the Puster Valley region. Held annually on the first weekend of October in the center of Gais, in the province of Bolzano, it is rooted in the ancient tradition of Kirchweih, the church consecration feast that has marked the autumn season in South Tyrolean villages for centuries.

Two days of folk celebrations

The event spans an entire weekend. On Saturday, the Kirschta committee raises the characteristic Kirschtamichl-Baum, a festival tree with a traditional figure perched at its top, officially kicking off the festivities. Under a large heated marquee, visitors can enjoy live music, hearty food, and South Tyrolean gastronomic specialties in a convivial atmosphere that brings the whole village together.

The Almabtrieb, the most anticipated moment

The heart of the festival is Sunday afternoon, with the grand Almabtrieb, the descent of the herds from the alpine pastures marking the end of the summer season. The parade, led by a group in traditional costume playing folk music, winds through the center of Gais with cows, goats, and donkeys festively adorned and wearing sonorous cowbells, accompanied by herdsmen in traditional Lederhosen, checkered shirts, and hats. Along the route, local associations set up floats and scenes depicting ancient farming techniques.

Music, tradition, and Schuhplattler

Local brass bands, led by the Musikkapelle Gais, bring the day to life with concerts and festive performances. A must-see is the show by young dancers performing the Schuhplattler, the lively traditional Tyrolean dance characterized by rhythmic slapping of the thighs and leather breeches. The morning begins with the Frühschoppen, a musical aperitif in the marquee that brings together locals and visitors alike.

A hallmark event of South Tyrol

The Guasinga Kirschta is much more than a simple fair: it is an identity-defining event that weaves together faith, mountain agriculture, and folk culture, passed down from generation to generation. For those visiting the Trentino-Alto Adige region in autumn, it offers an authentic opportunity to experience the traditions of the Gais community and witness one of the most evocative rituals of the Alps—the cattle drive—in a setting that remains genuine and far from mass tourism.