Vienna Kirtag starts

Neustift celebrates with politics, youth and police

The traditional procession with the Hauer crown marked the starting point.

(Bild: Kristian Bissuti)

The police patrol the Kirtag to ensure that visitors feel safe.

(Bild: Kristian Bissuti)

The Neustift Kirtag got off to a flying start: the increased threat of terrorism did nothing to dampen the mood at the folk festival. The "Krone" was on site and accompanied the traditional parade in the west of the town.

For four days, the tranquil wine village of Neustift am Walde is once again in a state of emergency. Vienna's biggest Kirtag spectacle takes place. With lots of old favorites, such as the ceremonial parade of the Hauerkrone, which stops at numerous wine taverns every day during the course of Kirtag. But there is also something new on the program.

The queer event by drag queen Candy Licious has already caused a stir in the run-up to the event. Visitors also have to be prepared for an increased security concept, as the Kirtag is the largest free outdoor event in Vienna after the Danube Island Festival. There are bag checks, drones and security guards at the entrances to the grounds and in the wine taverns.

Lisa K. (16), student: "It's my first time here and I'm excited to see what awaits me. There are a lot of police around, which makes me feel safe. The prices are steep, but you're used to it by now."

(Bild: Kristian Bissuti)

Peter Gerzer (64), pensioner: "I've been back at the Kirtag for ten years. I come from Upper Austria and want to see the spectacle again. The prices are high, as usual in Vienna."

(Bild: Kristian Bissuti)

Annelise Turnwald (72), pensioner: "I come to the Kirtag on all four days, I just feel good here. My friends complain about the dirt everywhere, I have a different perception."

(Bild: Kristian Bissuti)

Daniela Jirak (52), kindergarten teacher: "I live nearby, I don't have far to go. My bag wasn't checked, but I still feel safe. Compared to before, things have improved."

(Bild: Kristian Bissuti)

Poldi Huber (66), wine tavern owner: "Like every year, it's a huge spectacle. Friday and Saturday are completely booked out. I'm looking forward to a great weekend. The police are doing a great job."

(Bild: Kristian Bissuti)

We were there on the opening day and took a look. Many young people had already gathered at the Wolff wine tavern in the afternoon. "It's my first time here, but I didn't notice any increased security checks, my bag wasn't checked," says Lisa Kargl. Nevertheless, she feels safe at the Kirtag. And what does she say about the prices? "It's expensive, but that's what you're used to from night-time gastronomy by now," she says.

Langos & Co. "burn" a deep hole in your wallet
We took a closer look at the prices, and some of the market stalls in particular charge outrageous prices. A waffle costs a hefty 8.80 euros. A langos with cheese 9 euros. But the Heurigen themselves also charge a lot on Kirtag days. A spritzer costs 3.60 euros and a liter of wine 28.80 euros. However, very few people are in a drinking mood. "I haven't looked at the prices yet, but it's certainly not cheap. But I'm prepared for that," says visitor Leon Karbeck.

Nehammer and Mahrer flanked by Ministers Karoline Edtstadler and Susanne Raab.

(Bild: Kristian Bissuti)

The classic "Herzerl" is also a must at Kirtag.

(Bild: Kristian Bissuti)

In times of election campaigns, many politicians also pay a visit to the Kirtag. Mayor Michael Ludwig (SPÖ) had announced his intention to attend, but was then represented by Barbara Novak, secretary of the Vienna state party. Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer (ÖVP) made a brief detour before moving on to the Coldplay concert. The leaders of Vienna's political parties also made an appearance: Christoph Wiederkehr (Neos), Karl Mahrer (ÖVP) and Dominik Nepp (FPÖ) were also there.