Living Traditions

It’s a traditional folk dance - and a particularly charming one to boot: Schuachplattln. The name comes from the rhythmic slapping of shoes and thighs that sets the beat. Lederhosen and Dirndls are a must, along with lively dance steps and plenty of laughs. Originating in the Alpine region, Schuachplattln is firmly rooted in village festivals and church celebrations, and there is no age limit. Few things express regional identity more vividly.

Once used by herdsmen to drive cattle and communicate across wide alpine pastures, the Goaßlschnölln has its origins in South Tyrol’s alpine farming culture. Today the Goaßl - a traditional whip with wooden handle and leather lash - is swung at festivals and parades. There are even regional championships. When the Goaßlschnöller begin, the sharp crack of the whip quickly draws everyone’s attention. 

Every region has its own traditional costume, and each one tells its own story. Even within Brixen Südtirol, the details can vary from valley to valley or even from village to village. Lederhosen and Dirndls are worn on festive occasions throughout the year, from church celebrations to village festivals. Much has been said about whether the ribbon on a woman’s apron is tied on the left or the right, or about the embroidery on a pair of Lederhosen. But in the end, what truly matters is that local traditions are worn and celebrated with pride.

When the animals return from the high alpine pastures to the valley in autumn, it is a moment of great celebration. More than just a seasonal event, the Almabtrieb reflects deep roots and long-held traditions. The cows are decorated with flowers and bells, the village gathers in anticipation, and music, Schuachplattler, Goaßlschnöller and regional delicacies fill the day. The celebrations usually take place between mid-September and mid-October.

With his red cloak, white beard, mitre and bishop’s staff, Saint Nicholas arrives here on the evening of 5 December, leading festive parades through towns and villages, accompanied by angels. Well-behaved children receive small gifts - and those who haven’t been quite so good might feel a little uneasy. The Krampus processions, a long-standing part of Advent in the Alpine region, bring a darker atmosphere. Masked figures with horns, chains and bells roam the streets, their dramatic presence both thrilling and a little frightening. Around 1,000 Krampus are active across South Tyrol today. Traditionally they were meant to drive away evil spirits, but above all they create a powerful spectacle - a striking counterpart to the gentle Saint Nicholas.

On the second Sunday after Corpus Christi, mountain slopes across South Tyrol glow with large fires shaped as crosses, hearts and Christian symbols. The tradition remembers a historic vow made in 1796, when the Tyrolean estates gathered in Bozen and promised to entrust the land to the Sacred Heart of Jesus during the threat of Napoleon’s troops. Andreas Hofer renewed this vow before the Battle of Bergisel against French and Bavarian forces. The Tyrolean troops were victorious - and the custom of lighting the mountain fires continues to this day.