Grand, magnificent, cultured, historic – all words that come to mind when Austria is on the cards. As a stalwart of Central Europe, it has built up many timeless traditions over time. Here are some fascinating traditions from Austria.
Gemuetlichkeit
Austrians love nothing more than to sit down with friends and family to have great conversation over a good meal. So much so, that this tradition has its own word – gemuetlichkeit! This describes the happy mood and sense of wellbeing produced from being in this environment. Food and conversation are highly treasured amongst Austrians.
Wiener Wuerstelstand
It wouldn’t be a visit to Austria without a traditional sausage snack! A wiener wuerstelstand is a street food stall selling one, or many, types of sausages. From a sacherwuerstl (served with mustard and horseradish sauces in a fluffy kaiser bun) to a bosna (a bratwurst hotdog topped with chopped onions, curry powder, mustard and tomato sauce), we adore this cheap and cheerful snack.
Bonfire Sunday
Celebrated on the first Sunday after Ash Wednesday, Bonfire Sunday (funkensonntag) is only held in the western areas of Austria. Locals build a tower out of straw and/or wood, topped with a witch-like figure made from old clothes filled with gunpowder. This tradition was begun to drive out the cold of winter, with the explosion of the witch giving luck to the town or city.
Coffeehouse culture
Austria’s coffeehouse culture is ingrained in local tradition, especially in Vienna. It reached peak popularity around 1900 when cafes had newspaper stands, spiffy waiters in tailcoats and grand chandeliers. They were often frequented by intellectuals as it was a cosy place for conversation to spark and evolve into some of Europe’s modern development.
Almabtrieb
The tradition of almabtrieb is held in towns situated by the Alps. Cattle are decorated with flowers and ribbons and walked from their Alpine pastures back to their local farms. Starting around the end of August and happening over one month, this tradition marks the end of summer and the safe return of cattle. Local markets and fairs are held at the same time to showcase Austria’s cultural heritage with music, dance and regional specialties.
Ball season
Bridgerton has nothing on Vienna’s ball season! Known as the fifth season between November and February, over 400 balls take place each winter in Vienna. Many still follow customs that date back to the 18th century with elegant dress codes, a grand opening fanfare and choreographed dances. The Opera Ball (held in the magnificent Opera House) is the official State Ball of the Republic of Austria; but keep an eye out for other occasions like the ‘ball of pastries’ held at the Jofburg, put on by Viennese confectioners.
Hearty meals
Austria is all about making tasty comfort food. There are the classics – wiener schnitzel, savoury bread dumplings and sachertorte – however while travelling around, you’ll find each town and city has their own specialty. In Salzburg, you must try a Salzburger Nockerl; an airy vanilla souffle dusted with icing sugar to mimic its surrounding mountains. Or if you’re hiking near the alps in the Tyrol region, a plate of Tiroler Gröstl will fuel you up – complete with potatoes, onion, meat and a fried egg.
There’s no place in the world like Austria. Visit this country on a Globus or Cosmos tour, or on an Avalon Waterways river cruise.
