Rupertikirtag in Salzburg

What is the Rupertikirtag?

Rupertikirtag is a traditional church fair in the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town. Around the feast day of Saint Rupert, the squares surrounding Salzburg Cathedral are transformed for several days into a lively stage for local customs, folk music, brass bands, regional specialties, and historic rides. From the haunted house and chain carousel to the festival tent, Rupertikirtag combines Salzburg tradition with a festive atmosphere and invites visitors to experience local customs up close. Many guests take the opportunity to attend the fair in a dirndl or lederhosen. Those still looking for the perfect outfit will find what they need in Salzburg’s traditional costume shops.

Rupertikirtag at a Glance

• Date: Around September 24, 2026

• Location: Salzburg’s Old Town around the Cathedral

• Squares: Domplatz, Kapitelplatz, Residenzplatz, Mozartplatz, Alter Markt

• Admission: Free access

• Highlights: Rides, crafts, regional specialties, beer tent, folk music

• Getting there: Best by public transportation or Park & Ride

Traditional Program at Rupertikirtag

Every year, Salzburg’s Rupertikirtag delights visitors of all ages with a varied program. On the first day of the festival, the opening parade and opening ceremony traditionally take place at noon, accompanied by the Angelus ringing of the Cathedral bells and salutes fired by the Bürgergarde. Hans Wurst, the mascot of Rupertikirtag, is always part of the ceremony. By raising the market flag, he officially opens the festival. Another ritual follows in the festival tent, where the mayor officially taps the first keg of beer. Several days of lively fair festivities then follow, with program highlights that change from year to year. On the final day of Rupertikirtag, Hans Wurst traditionally brings the celebrations to a close by lowering the flag.

A Day at Salzburg’s Rupertikirtag

Rupertikirtag starts at 11 am with market stalls, regional crafts, and the first culinary offerings of the day. At midday and throughout the afternoon, traditional specialties, historic rides, and folk music provide plenty of variety. In between, there is enough time to stroll through the festival grounds and soak up the special atmosphere. In the evening, the festival tent and numerous food stalls throughout the area invite visitors to enjoy the festivities and spend a relaxed evening. A visit to Rupertikirtag can also be perfectly combined with a tour of Salzburg’s Old Town. Around the festival grounds, historic lanes, Baroque squares, and numerous sights are waiting to be explored.

Who Was Saint Rupert?

Saint Rupert is considered the founder of the city of Salzburg and remains its patron saint to this day. The Bishop of Worms, who came from a high-ranking noble family, first traveled to Regensburg at the request of Duke Theodo II. In search of a suitable place for his Christian mission, he eventually arrived on the Salzach River. There, he was granted the area of the former Roman settlement of Iuvavum, now the city of Salzburg.

Around the year 696, Rupert founded St. Peter’s Archabbey, laying the foundation for the city’s development. As the monastery’s first abbot, he had a lasting influence on the religious and cultural life of the region. A little later, he also founded Nonnberg Abbey, which is still considered the oldest continuously existing convent in the German-speaking world. His niece, Saint Erentrudis, followed him to Salzburg and became the convent’s first abbess. She, too, is honored as one of the city’s patron saints. The feast day of Saint Rupert is celebrated every year on September 24.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rupertikirtag

When does Rupertikirtag take place?

Rupertikirtag takes place every year around September 24.

Where does Rupertikirtag take place?

The traditional fair takes place around Salzburg Cathedral, specifically on Domplatz, Kapitelplatz, Residenzplatz, Mozartplatz, and Alter Markt.

Is there an admission fee for Rupertikirtag?

Rupertikirtag is free to access, and no admission fee is charged. Rides, food, and drinks are paid for on site.

What is there to see at Rupertikirtag?

Rupertikirtag offers an exciting mix of culinary delights, local customs, and historic rides. From duck fishing and local breweries to traditional crafts, Rupertikirtag offers food, drink, and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

How do I get to Rupertikirtag in Salzburg?

The best way to get to Rupertikirtag is by public transportation into the Old Town, for example to the Mozartsteg or Hanuschplatz stops. Alternatively, using the Park & Ride service is recommended. All information about parking in Salzburg can be found here.

What traditional clothing is worn at Rupertikirtag?

At Salzburg’s Rupertikirtag, many visitors wear traditional clothing in a colorful mix of classic and modern styles. Wearing traditional clothing is not required, but it is a wonderful way to experience Salzburg customs up close. Those who would like to wear a dirndl or lederhosen will find plenty of options in Salzburg’s traditional costume shops.