Folk festival at the cathedral

Rupertikirtag kicks off today

The kitchen and bar were already in full operation in the large marquee on Tuesday for an anniversary celebration.(Bild: Tröster Andreas)

From midday today, when bells and gun salutes have sounded, the patron saint of Salzburg, Rupert, will once again be celebrated around the cathedral. The tradition will be upheld again this year at the folk and church festival in the heart of the old town.

Rupertikirtag has been held around the cathedral since 1977. However, its history goes back much further. For example, in the Middle Ages as the "Dult" at the cathedral, in the 19th century as a fair in the city center, but it has only existed in its current form for 46 years.

The Racz family runs the classics on Rupertikirtag.(Bild: Tröster Andreas)

Senior boss Johanna stands at the shooting gallery....(Bild: Tröster Andreas)

... Son Thomas takes care of the rest with his sisters, brother-in-law and sons.(Bild: Tröster Andreas)

Carousel from 1848 is only set up once
Johanna Racz has been there since the beginning. Today, she stands in the shooting range, gives amorous shooters a rose - if they hit the target - or hands out a cuddly toy after a successful shot. The famous chain carousel is also owned by the family. Son Thomas and son-in-law Josef set it up together with their grandsons in one day and look after it on Kirtag. The special thing about it: the old merry-go-round from 1848 is only set up once a year for Rupertikirtag.

There was already an exuberant atmosphere on Kapitelplatz yesterday. The 100th anniversary of the Hospital of the Brothers of Mercy took place in the large marquee of the innkeepers from Grossarltal. Even after the traditional opening at noon today, chicken, beer and brass band music will dominate the tent. On peak days, up to 120 employees, the majority from Grossarl and Hüttschlag, take care of the physical well-being.

Around 80 employees from Großarl and Hüttschlag work in the marquee in the kitchen, bar and service.(Bild: Tröster Andreas)

Pongau delicacies and Salzburg Stiegl beer will still be available the day after Rupertikirtag. This is because the Salzburg regional clinics will be holding their autumn festival in the tent again on Monday.