Pfundra Kirschta (Kirchtag in Pfunders)

The village festival of Pfunders

The Pfundra Kirschta is the local Kirchtag—a traditional village and patronal festival—held in Pfunders, a charming mountain hamlet in the municipality of Vintl, located in the Puster Valley, South Tyrol. As with many traditional German-speaking festivals in the region, the name remains in the local dialect: «Pfundra Kirschta» simply translates to the Kirchtag of Pfunders. The event is organized by the Bauernjugend Pfunders (the local youth association) in collaboration with the Schuhplattler group, and takes place in a large festival marquee (Festzelt) set up at the Pfunders sports field.

The Kirschtabaum and the Kirschtamichl, the heart of the celebration

The most anticipated and iconic moment is undoubtedly the raising of the legendary Kirschtabaum: a towering tree trunk, felled in the forest on Saturday morning by the «Kirschtanapfen» and paraded through the village by the «Kirschtatroppln». A strict tradition dictates that the tree must be erected exclusively by hand, without the use of cranes: in 2024, a 43-meter specimen required nearly eight hours of collective effort. Around fifty young people hoist it using special wooden «scissors», a technique that is now rare in the Puster Valley. At the very top sits the Kirschtamichl, the straw effigy that symbolizes the festival, which, according to custom, must be guarded all night to protect it from theft attempts by youths from neighboring villages.

Music, Frühschoppen, and Schuhplattler

On Saturday evening, the marquee resonates with Oberkrainerklänge, the traditional Tyrolean music, while the tree is blessed. On Sunday morning, after Holy Mass, it is time for the Frühschoppen, the traditional morning toast accompanied by brass band music, often featuring performances by local groups. The event also showcases Schuhplattler dances, South Tyrolean culinary delights, and entertainment for children. The festival concludes with the traditional tree auction, with proceeds donated to charity.

A community celebration

The Pfundra Kirschta is much more than just a festival: it is a cornerstone of identity that strengthens the bonds of the entire Pfunders community. Approximately 200 volunteers contribute to the event's success, alongside the local fire brigade, who manage safety and parking. This widespread involvement, combined with the strength of handed-down customs, makes the Pfunders Kirschta one of the most cherished and well-attended events in the valley, drawing visitors from across the Puster Valley and beyond.

Where and when

The festival takes place at the Festzelt at the Pfunders sports field, in the municipality of Vintl, South Tyrol. The Kirchtag is traditionally held in spring: the 2026 edition took place from May 1st to 3rd, 2026, and the 2025 edition from May 16th to 18th, 2025.