Culture and Local Tradition of Wildschönau
Wildschönau is a valley that deeply values customs and tradition. The valley, comprising the four villages of Niederau, Oberau, Auffach, and Thierbach, is steeped in a captivating history, cherished heritage, and a strong sense of identity. The people of Wildschönau are known for their warm hospitality and deep pride in their rich culture. This is evident in the vibrant festivals they celebrate, the traditional costumes they wear, and the exquisite crafts and products they create.
Festivals and Processions
The festivals and processions that occur throughout the year in Wildschönau are a vibrant reflection of the local culture and traditions. These events serve as more than just opportunities for celebration and entertainment; they also play a crucial role in preserving and passing on the customs and folklore of the valley. Here are some of the most notable festivals and processions:
- The Wildschönau Almabtrieb, which is a traditional festival that celebrates the return of the cattle from the alpine pastures in September. The festival features a parade of decorated cows, music, dancing, and local delicacies. The festival is a way of expressing gratitude for a successful summer season, and of preserving the customs and traditions of the valley. The festival also includes a farmers’ market, a craft market, and a cheese market. The Wildschönau Almabtrieb is one of the largest and most colorful festivals in Tyrol, and attracts thousands of visitors every year
- The Wildschönau Krautinger Week, which is a festival that honors the Krautinger beet schnapps, a unique product of the valley. The festival takes place in October, and showcases the history and production of the Krautinger, as well as its culinary and medicinal uses. The festival also features tastings, exhibitions, workshops, and concerts. The festival is a way of promoting and protecting the Krautinger, which is a symbol of the identity and heritage of the valley
- The Wildschönau Christmas Market, which is a festive market that offers a variety of local products, crafts, and delicacies. The market takes place in December, and is held in different locations in the valley. The market also features music, performances, and activities for children. The market is a way of celebrating the advent season, and of sharing the warmth and joy of the valley.
Costumes and Dress
The culture and local tradition of Wildschönau also includes the costumes and dress that are worn by the locals, particularly during festivals and processions. The costumes and dress showcase the rich history and cultural heritage of the valley, with many of them being meticulously crafted by hand and cherished as family heirlooms for countless years. Here are some of the most unique costumes and dress:
- The Kasettl, which is the prized local dress of the valley. The Kasettl is a black dress with a white apron, a red scarf, and a black hat. The dress is decorated with silver buttons, ribbons, and lace. The dress is worn by women on special occasions, such as weddings, baptisms, and processions. The dress is a sign of elegance and dignity, and is often inherited from the mother or grandmother.
- The Tracht, which is the traditional costume of the valley. The Tracht consists of a jacket, a shirt, a vest, a pair of trousers, and a hat for men, and a blouse, a skirt, a bodice, and a hat for women. The Tracht is made of wool, linen, or cotton, and is colored in green, blue, or brown. The Tracht is adorned with embroidery, buttons, and pins. The Tracht is worn by the locals on festive occasions, such as the Almabtrieb, the Krautinger Week, and the Christmas Market. The Tracht is a symbol of pride and belonging, and is often customized and personalized.
Crafts and Products
The crafts and products made and sold by the locals in Wildschönau are an integral part of the culture and local tradition. They can be found at markets and museums, showcasing the unique skills and creativity of the community. The crafts and products showcase the exceptional skills and boundless creativity of the valley, drawing inspiration from the abundant natural resources and thriving agricultural practices. Here are some of the most impressive crafts and products:
- The Krautinger, which is a beet schnapps that is unique to the valley. The Krautinger is made from white beets that are grown and harvested in the valley. The beets are fermented, distilled, and aged in oak barrels. The Krautinger has a strong and distinctive flavor, and is often mixed with water or juice. The Krautinger is not only a drink, but also a medicine, as it is believed to have healing and cleansing properties. The Krautinger is a protected product, and can only be produced by 15 licensed farmers in the valley. The Krautinger is a specialty and a treasure of the valley.
- The Wooden Crafts, which are various objects and curiosities made of wood. The wooden crafts are made by the locals, who use different types of wood, such as pine, spruce, larch, and birch. The wooden crafts include furniture, toys, sculptures, clocks, and musical instruments. The wooden crafts are often carved, painted, or decorated with motifs and symbols. The wooden crafts are a testimony of the art and culture of the valley, and can be seen and bought at the 1st Tirolean Wood Museum.
- The Cheese Products, which are various types of cheese that are produced and sold in the valley. The cheese products are made from the milk of the cows that graze on the alpine pastures of the valley. The cheese products include hard cheese, soft cheese, cream cheese, and cottage cheese. The cheese products are often flavored with herbs, spices, or fruits. The cheese products are a delicacy and a staple of the valley, and can be tasted and purchased at the Schönanger Alm, a mountain hut and a show dairy.
