Reina Kiekemma – Almabtrieb and Autumn Festival (Transhumance and Autumn Festival in Riva di Tures)

The autumn transhumance in the heart of the Ahrntal Valley

The "Reina Kiekemma" is the historic autumn transhumance (known in German as Almabtrieb) of Riva di Tures / Rein in Taufers, a small high-mountain village in the municipality of Campo Tures / Sand in Taufers, in the province of Bolzano, Trentino-South Tyrol. Located at the end of the Ahrntal Valley, at the foot of the Rieserferner Group, the village provides the setting for one of the most cherished traditional festivals in the Tauferer Ahrntal.

As the days grow shorter and the alpine summer draws to a close, farmers and shepherds bring the livestock that spent the warmer months on high-altitude pastures back down to the valley. This is the time of the transhumance: an ancient ritual that combines thanksgiving for a season passed without incident and the joy of the animals' return home.

Adorned cows and traditional parade

The most anticipated moment is the parade of the richly decorated cows. The animals march with crowns made of flowers and braided branches, adorned with mirrors, sacred images, and artistic embroidery. The lead cow wears a special headdress featuring a cross to protect the herd and a mirror, which, according to tradition, wards off evil spirits.

The parade includes shepherds, artisans, and musicians, decorated wagons, and groups of Schuhplattler dancers in traditional costume. The music of local brass bands accompanies the entire event, giving the animals' return the feel of a true community celebration.

The autumn festival

The transhumance is accompanied by a genuine autumn festival (Herbstfest), featuring a Saturday evening musical event in a heated marquee and a Sunday program that alternates concerts, parades, and entertainment. There is no shortage of South Tyrolean farm specialties, such as Topfnudeln, Krapfen, Bauerngeröstel, and barley soup. For families, there are play areas, a small petting zoo, and various attractions.

A biennial event

The "Reina Kiekemma" takes place every two years, in even-numbered years, on the third weekend of October. It is organized by the Riva di Tures Volunteer Fire Department, the Schützen, and the ASV Rein sports association, in collaboration with the Ahrntal Valley tourist office. The event is an authentic opportunity to experience South Tyrolean alpine traditions far from mass tourism.