The Schutzengel-Kirchtag in Kleinsölk is a centuries-old rural church festival where locals gather for a mass and a traditional cattle drive. Held around the first Sunday of September, it features a morning Holy Mass and the ceremonial Almabtrieb (pilgrimage of decorated cattle) from the alpine pasture back to the village, along with regional foods and crafts. This intimate community event showcases traditional Alpine farming and Catholic customs.
Dating back over 200 years (even Erzherzog Johann noted it in 1819), this kirchtag celebrates the feast of the guardian angels for the local parish church. It reflects the agrarian lifestyle of the Sölktal region, giving thanks for the alpine grazing season. The event reinforces community bonds in Kleinsölk and draws visitors for its authentic folkloric elements, like the crowning of cattle and serving of home-made pastries.
Venues and routes
Filialkirche Kleinsölk · Turnau (im Sölktal)
The dates that shape the visit.
Sun, Sep 7
Open to all; guests of faith may attend reverently. It’s a solemn church service with local hymns.
Visitors can watch the procession of cows through the village; it’s family-friendly and celebratory. Best viewed along the route as animals are paraded to the church area.
Reference notes for once this becomes a real plan.
Moderate crowds
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