FARMERS’ HARVEST

SIT TOGETHER – EAT – MAKE MUSIC – CELEBRATE

The Harvest Festival in the Salzburger Saalachtal is a time of traditions, get-togethers and regional culture – the fifth season, as it is also known. From mid-August to the end of October, the Salzburger Saalachtal celebrates the harvest season with numerous festivals and events that keep the culture and customs of the Salzburger Land alive.

A well-known part of the farmers’ harvest traditions is the cattle drive, when the cattle are brought back from the mountain pastures to the valley. The cows are decorated with colorful “Furkeln”, depending on the alp and the conditions of the year – a custom that shows that everything went well on the farm and on the alp during the summer. These magnificently decorated animals are a symbol of a successful and accident-free alpine season. However, should something happen, such as a death in the family or an accident involving the cattle, the cattle are not decorated but simply driven down into the valley.

Old craft rediscovered

Old craft techniques require dexterity, skill, practice and a lot of patience. Even rare or almost extinct craft is still lovingly cared for and preserved for the next generations. Fortunately for us all: For something crafted by hand is highly valued and held in honor. At the Harvest Festival in St. Martin you can look over the shoulders of various craftsmen and get to know old craftsmanship.