Fasnacht events in Tyrol

The customs and rites of carnival in Tyrol date back to pre-Christian times. They have their origins in pagan fertility rituals and traditions for exorcising winter in Austria. Winter was often long and hard in the Alpine regions. Costumes and masks were worn at carnival time to welcome spring and drive away winter. Figures such as witches, devils or wild men usually stood for evil winter spirits, while colourful masks decorated with flowers represented spring. To this day, carnival parades and festivals are held in numerous towns in Tyrol. Many are now recognised as intangible cultural heritage.

The term "Fasnacht" has its origins in the Christian period of Lent. In the Christian calendar, this begins on Ash Wednesday and traditionally ends on Holy Saturday before Easter Sunday, when the resurrection of Jesus is celebrated. In Tyrol, carnival parades are part of the carnival tradition.

The traditional carnival figures in Tyrol include those representing winter and spring. These figures look different depending on the location and Perchten run. At the Schemenlaufen in Imst, for example, the "Roller" symbolises spring and the "Scheller" winter. At the Schleicherlaufen in Telfs, the "Schleicher" with his magnificent hat symbolises the reawakening of nature. At the Nassereither Schellerlaufen, the "Spritzer" takes on this role, while the "Zottler" with his shaggy clothes symbolises the harsh winter. At the Blochziehen in Fiss, the foolish figure "Bajatzl" shows the joy of spring and at the Wampelerreiten in Axams, "Reiter" and "Wampeler" wrestle with each other as the cold and warm seasons.

You can find more information about carnival in Tyrol here.