Sondna Kirschta (Sand in Taufers Patronal Festival)

The village festival of Sand in Taufers

The Sondna Kirschta is the local Kirchtag, or patronal village festival, of Sand in Taufers, a municipality in the Tures Valley in the province of Bolzano, in the heart of South Tyrol. As with many traditional German-speaking festivals in the region, the name remains in the local dialect: «Sondna Kirschta» literally means the Kirchtag of Sand in Taufers. The event is organized by the Schützenkompanie Taufers, the town's historic Schützen company, with the active involvement of local associations.

The Kirchtagmichl, the heart of the festival

The most anticipated and characteristic moment is undoubtedly the raising of the Kirchtagmichl: a puppet that, over several hours and through the collective effort of the community, is secured to the top of the Mussl, a long tree trunk, and then hoisted from a horizontal to a vertical position. It is a communal ritual accompanied by cheers of encouragement and great public participation. Once raised, the Michl is guarded day and night: according to custom, youths from neighboring villages attempt to steal it, leading to the organization of guard shifts (the so-called Wachschoben).

Gastronomy and atmosphere

During these two days, there is no shortage of typical festival fare: crispy roast chicken, tasty sausages (Bratwürste), fresh beer, and fine wine accompany the convivial atmosphere. Live music, featuring local bands and groups, enlivens the marquee and the square until late, creating the warm and genuine atmosphere that makes South Tyrolean Kirchtags so unique.

Tradition and community

The Sondna Kirschta is much more than just a party: it is an identity-defining event that strengthens the bonds of the Campo Tures community and celebrates the centuries-old customs of South Tyrol. The participation of the Schützenkompanie, the guardians of local traditions, and the ritual of raising the Michl make this festival an authentic experience, appreciated by both locals and visitors vacationing in the Tures and Aurina Valleys.

Where and when

The festival takes place at the Festgelände, the event grounds in the center of Sand in Taufers, in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, Trentino-Alto Adige. The 2026 edition is scheduled for Saturday, September 5th and Sunday, September 6th, 2026.