Traditionelles Herbstfest / Traditional Autumn Festival

A rural festival held every two years

The Traditionelles Herbstfest (Traditional Autumn Festival) is one of the most iconic events in Tirolo — known in German as Dorf Tirol — the village that gives its name to the entire historic region, nestled among apple orchards and vineyards above Merano in the province of Bolzano (South Tyrol). Unlike annual village fairs, this celebration takes place only every two years, making it a highly anticipated event for both locals and the many visitors to the Meraner Land.

The parade of floats, the heart of the festival

The most spectacular moment is the grand festive parade (Festumzug) on Sunday afternoon: dozens of meticulously decorated floats travel through the village, depicting scenes and motifs from the local rural and agricultural life. Traditional symbols include the apple crown (Apfelkrone) and the giant bunch of grapes, paying homage to the two products that define local agriculture. The parade features marching bands, groups in traditional costume, village associations, and riders with their iconic Haflinger horses.

Torches, music, and traditional dances

The festival kicks off on Saturday evening with an evocative torchlight procession (Fackelumzug) accompanied by music and dancing. On Sunday, following the lively Frühschoppen — the morning aperitif with the village band — and the parade, the Musikkapelle Dorf Tirol performs a concert with flag-throwers, while the local folk dance group (Volkstanzgruppe Dorf Tirol) performs traditional South Tyrolean dances. There is also entertainment for children and typical local cuisine served under the marquees at the Festplatz.

Where and when

The festival takes place at the Festplatz in Tirolo, the village’s dedicated festival grounds. Thanks to its panoramic location above Merano and its proximity to the famous Castel Tirolo, the event combines a popular atmosphere with the charm of one of the most visited mountain villages in South Tyrol. Admission is free. As this is a biennial event, it is advisable to check the current year’s schedule with the Tirolo Tourist Office before planning your visit.