Schützenfest (Schützenkompanie Olang)

A traditional celebration in the heart of the Puster Valley

The Schützenfest organized by the "Peter Sigmair" Schützenkompanie of Olang is one of the most cherished summer events in the municipality of Olang, located in the province of Bolzano, in the heart of the Puster Valley. Every year, on the weekend following Ferragosto, the festival brings the Mitterolang park to life with two days dedicated to folk music, Tyrolean gastronomy, and local community spirit.

Who are the Schützen?

The Schützen companies are traditional associations in the German-speaking area of South Tyrol, descendants of the ancient Tyrolean territorial militias. Today, they preserve the customs, traditions, and values of South Tyrolean culture: they march in their historical uniforms during religious processions, civil commemorations, and patronal festivals. The Olang company, named after Peter Sigmair, keeps this heritage alive and organizes its annual festival as a gathering point for both locals and visitors.

What to expect

The program typically spans two days. Saturday evening kicks off with live music and entertainment, while Sunday features the traditional mid-morning Frühschoppen, an afternoon concert by local bands, and an evening of folk music. Both days offer food stalls serving South Tyrolean specialties, beer, and traditional dishes. It is a free-entry, family-friendly event deeply rooted in the local community.

Where it takes place

The event is held in the park of Mitterolang, one of the villages that make up the municipality of Olang (alongside Oberolang and Niederolang), a tourist destination at the foot of Plan de Corones, overlooking the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park. The combination of Dolomite landscapes, living traditions, and Puster Valley hospitality makes the Schützenfest an authentic way to experience South Tyrolean culture.