Pfarrlinga Kirschta (Niederolang Church Festival / Valdaora di Sotto Festival)

A festival rooted in Puster Valley tradition

The Pfarrlinga Kirschta is the patronal festival (known in German as Kirchtag) of the village of Valdaora di Sotto — or Niederolang in German — located in the municipality of Valdaora/Olang, in the Puster Valley, province of Bolzano (South Tyrol, Trentino-Alto Adige region). Since Valdaora is composed of four districts each with its own church, the Kirchtag is celebrated several times a year: the one in Valdaora di Sotto falls between late June and early July, on the weekend following the feast of Saints Peter and Paul.

The festival is organized by the Pfarrmusik Olang, the local parish band that plays a central role in the community's cultural life: it accompanies processions, festivals, and celebrations deeply rooted in the town's history. The Kirchtag thus blends religious significance, local identity, and popular celebration.

A weekend of music, dance, and conviviality

The event takes place at the covered festival grounds (Festplatz) in Niederolang, which allows for celebrations even in case of bad weather. Saturday kicks off with the raising of the traditional festival tree (the Kirschta Michl Bam), followed by the official opening with live music and an evening under the marquee. Sunday is the most solemn and anticipated day: it begins with a festive mass and procession, continues with a morning concert, and culminates in the afternoon with the grand festive parade, featuring riders, floats, and brass bands from other parts of South Tyrol. In the evening, the prize draw and dance music bring the festival to a close.

South Tyrolean gastronomy and Tyrolean atmosphere

Like every Kirchtag in the Puster Valley, the Pfarrlinga Kirschta is an opportunity to enjoy traditional South Tyrolean cuisine: typical dishes, festival pastries, beer, and local specialties served at the stands set up around the square. Traditional costumes (the Tracht), brass music, and community spirit create an authentic atmosphere, beloved by both locals and guests vacationing at the foot of Plan de Corones (Kronplatz).

• Where: Covered Festplatz in Valdaora di Sotto / Niederolang, Municipality of Valdaora, Puster Valley
• When: First weekend of July, after the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul
• Organizer: Pfarrmusik Olang (parish band)
• Admission: Free

The Pfarrlinga Kirschta is one of the most cherished events in Valdaora's summer calendar, bringing together different generations through music, faith, and the traditions of the Puster Valley.