Event Details
Welcome to the Salzburg Rupertikirtag 2026
From 23 to 27 September 2026, Salzburg's Old Town around the Cathedral turns once again into a lively church fair. The Rupertikirtag is Salzburg's largest traditional folk festival; held in honor of the province's patron saint, Saint Rupert, its tradition dates back to the 14th century. Five historic squares, Alter Markt, Residenzplatz, Mozartplatz, Domplatz and Kapitelplatz, become the stage for craft markets, vintage fairground rides and living local customs.
Highlights
- Traditional opening parade with the Salzburg Bürgergarde and the Trachtenmusikkapelle Maxglan
- Historic fairground rides such as the ghost train and chain carousel
- Craft market with regional stalls at Alter Markt
- Folk and brass music, traditional dance and whip cracking performances
- Regional culinary specialties, beer tent and festival atmosphere
- Festive church service at the Cathedral on St. Rupert's Day (24 September)
- Traditional closing fireworks (subject to official approval)
Program
The Rupertikirtag opens on Wednesday with a festive ceremony and a parade through the squares of the Old Town. Around 24 September, the feast day of Saint Rupert, a festive church service at the Cathedral and numerous folk performances take place. On all five days, market stalls, a craft market at Alter Markt, historic fairground rides and a festival tent provide entertainment. A large fireworks display over the Old Town is traditionally planned for the closing evening; in some years it has been cancelled due to aviation regulations at Salzburg Airport, so the current announcement should be checked on the official program page.
Tickets
Admission to the Rupertikirtag is free; only fairground rides, food and drinks are paid on site. Visitors travelling within the province of Salzburg can sometimes reach the fair free of charge by bus and train during designated SVV travel days.
Visitor Tips
- Check opening hours: most days run from 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM, while St. Rupert's Day and the closing Sunday start later at 11:15 AM due to the church service.
- The craft market at Alter Markt closes earlier, at 6:00 PM.
- Traditional dress (dirndl or lederhosen) is common among visitors and fits the festive atmosphere.
- Public transport is recommended, as the Old Town gets very crowded during the fair.
- Arrive early at Domplatz to get a good spot for the church service on St. Rupert's Day.
