Tisner Kirchtag

The Tisner Kirchtag, the Assumption festival in Tesimo

The Tisner Kirchtag is the patronal festival (known in German as Kirchtag) of Tesimo/Tisens, a village nestled on the sunny slopes of the Merano region in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, Trentino-Alto Adige. The festival is linked to the Feast of the Assumption (Maria Himmelfahrt), celebrated on August 15th, and is traditionally held on August 14th and 15th on the Rathausplatz, the town square at the heart of the village.

A festival organized by the local brass band

The event is organized by the Musikkapelle Tisens, the local brass band, which is the heart and soul of the entire celebration. As with all Kirchtag festivals in South Tyrol, brass music is the common thread: the local band alternates on stage with numerous guest groups, ranging from Blasmusik ensembles to folk bands, providing entertainment from the opening evening until the late afternoon finale.

Faith, music, and conviviality

The Tisner Kirchtag preserves the dual nature of alpine Kirchtag festivals, blending religious devotion with popular celebration. The most solemn moment is the festive mass with a procession on the morning of August 15th, led by the Musikkapelle Tisens through the village streets. Immediately after, the party comes alive with the traditional Frühschoppen, a long midday aperitif accompanied by music, continuing throughout the afternoon with concerts and folk music until evening.

Flavors of South Tyrol

On the Rathausplatz, food stalls offer local specialties: traditional South Tyrolean dishes, homemade desserts, local beer, and wines, all in a convivial atmosphere that brings together residents and visitors alike. The setting is the Tesimo-Prissiano plateau, surrounded by orchards, vineyards, and panoramic views of the Burgraviato mountains.

A cornerstone of local identity

For the community of Tesimo/Tisens, the Kirchtag is one of the most cherished events of the year: an authentic festival, deeply rooted in the German-speaking culture of South Tyrol, weaving together Marian devotion, folk music, and village conviviality. For those visiting the Merano area during Ferragosto, it is the perfect opportunity to experience the traditions of South Tyrolean villages firsthand.