Experience living Tyrolean tradition up close
Customs in the region
Times change and we change with them. A look at the history of Tyrol shows that the landscape and village image are subject to constant change over the years. When it comes to the people in the region, culture plays the main role – it is passed on from generation to generation. Customs and culture are very important in Tyrol. A good reason to bring customs and traditions to the stage!
Traditional charm in the Zugspitz Arena
Amid the awe-inspiring mountain scenery of the Tyrolean Zugspitz Arena, authentic culture and vibrant tradition come together.
From preserving the Bavarian dialect to wearing traditional costumes and celebrating time-honored festivals:
Tradition and living customs are highly valued throughout the Zugspitze region and celebrated with great warmth and a deep connection to one’s homeland through numerous events.
Traditional festivals, folk evenings, and cultural festivals throughout the year bear witness to the vibrant regional identity of the Zugspitze region.
Mountains in flames
Every year on the summer solstice—around the third Saturday in June—more than 10,000 bonfires on the Tyrolean side of the Zugspitze light up the mountains with impressive displays of fire. The longest day and the shortest night are celebrated with spectacular displays featuring a wide variety of themes, such as faith, culture, and music. The diverse designs of these fire artworks adorn the Wetterstein Massif, the Mieminger Range, and the Lechtal Alps, and the Ehrwald-Lermoos-Biberwier valley basin also glows in a very special light. The origins of the mountain bonfires on the summer solstice date back to the 14th century, when the fires were used to drive away demons and evil spirits.
Lermoos cattle drive
The end of summer brings a festive atmosphere when the cows—adorned with flowers, bells, and bell straps—are herded back down into the valley to their barns. After their long summer stay on the alpine pastures, the animals are herded from the Panoramabad through the village to the festival tent at the Hochmoorexpress parking lot. This traditional festival is accompanied by Tyrolean delicacies and a convivial get-together.
Primal spectacle at the Perchtenlauf
It gets dark in winter when devils, Krampus and Perchten parade through Tyrol. The first Perchten can be traced back to the 17th century in Tyrol. With their shaggy costumes made of animal skins and large grimaces, the Perchten spread fear and terror with a hellish roar. This is based on the popular belief that they banish the demons of winter. The Perchten processions are organized and carried out by local groups or associations in keeping with tradition. You shouldn’t miss the spectacular parades through many Tyrolean communities!
Stroll through museums and churches
At the “Faszination Zugspitze” interactive museum, visitors can immerse themselves in the history of the Zugspitze. Historical photographs, Europe’s highest-altitude 3D show, film screenings, a glass floor offering a breathtaking view down into the depths, and a walk-on map are among the highlights of the Zugspitze Experience Museum.
Bichlbach is home to Austria’s only guild church. It was built back in 1710 and is still a real gem today with its unique frescoes. The almost completely gilded and 10-metre high high altar is the showpiece of the listed church.
The diversity of Tyrol’s mountains and valleys is reflected in the traditions that have been cultivated with heart and soul. To this day, they are kept alive with great dedication.
