Maitanzfest — May Dance Festival

The Maitanzfest, the May dance festival in Schenna

The Maitanzfest, literally the May dance festival, is a folk tradition event that brings the center of Schenna to life—a charming town nestled on the sunny plateau above Merano, in the province of Bolzano. The event takes place in Raiffeisen Square (Raiffeisenplatz), in the heart of the village, and stems from the collaboration between the local folk dance group (Volkstanzgruppe Schenna) and the Schenna Schützen company.

Two days of traditional music and dance

The festival spans two days dedicated to South Tyrolean folklore. On Saturday evening, from 7 pm to 11 pm, the square lights up for the opening of the festival: the Schenner Böhmische band accompanies the evening with characteristic Bavarian and Bohemian music, while the Schuhplattler treat the audience to their traditional choreography, featuring rhythmic clapping on shoes and leather breeches. A dedicated program for children is provided by Elisabeth Karnutsch Taibon.

On Sunday, from 11 am to 2 pm, the Frühschoppen (the typical morning aperitif of the German-speaking area) is accompanied by the Tanzlmusig, featuring performances by the folk dance group and cheerful dances by the children. On both days, the dance group and the Schützen offer visitors traditional culinary specialties and refreshing drinks.

The cultural roots of the Burgraviato

Folk dance (Volkstanz) and the Schuhplattler are part of the living cultural heritage of South Tyrol. The Schenna folk dance group has been active for years in preserving this repertoire, alongside the Schützen companies that pass down the customs, costumes, and identity symbols of the region. The Maitanzfest thus fits into the rich calendar of traditional festivals that, between Kirchtag, Törggelen, and village fairs, mark the year in the municipality of Schenna and throughout the Burgraviato.

An event for families and folklore enthusiasts

• Live music with the Schenner Böhmische and the Tanzlmusig
• Schuhplattler performances and folk dances by the Schenna group
• Children's program and dances dedicated to the little ones
• South Tyrolean gastronomic specialties and drinks
• Free admission, set in the evocative Raiffeisen Square

Located just minutes from Merano, Schenna is easily accessible and offers visitors the chance to discover authentic South Tyrolean culture in a festive and welcoming atmosphere.