Annual Calendar Of Austrian Wine Festivals

My first idea was to write a post and list in an exhaustive way ALL the wine festivals in Austria in chronological order. I wanted to provide you with an exhaustive annual calendar of Austrian wine festivals. What a goal!

Then i did my research.

And this became an impossible task… Why? Well first because there are so many and second, some disappear and new ones pop up.

So I reviewed my goals and decided to list the festivals that take place every year and have been doing so for the past few years/decade. And I’ve also decided to filter and present my favourite festivals.

Feel free to add any festival YOU have attended and wish to share in the comments and I’ll add them to the post with all the logistical details or/and share on my Instagram.

January

Dry January!

Just kidding. But there’s no festival I would recommend apart from the one taking place in your cellar. So use this month to take out your planner and start penciling in all the festivals of the year.

February

Feuer & Wein am Eisenberg

Mark your calendar for something magical: Feuer & Wein am Eisenberg in Austria! Get ready for an epic adventure where fire meets wine in a charming town called Eisenberg an der Pinka. Imagine this:

• Eight amazing wineries opening their doors for exclusive tastings paired with delicious local specialties. It’s like a delicious passport to explore the best of the region!
• Bonfires crackling along the winery trail, creating a warm, festive atmosphere that’s just perfect for cozying up with a glass of vino. Imagine the flickering flames reflecting in your glass…
• Discovering the secrets of winemaking through talks and tours, all while soaking in the picturesque charm of Eisenberg. Learn from the local masters and appreciate the magic behind each sip!
• Indulging in delightful local treats alongside your wine tastings. Think fresh cheeses, savory meats, and maybe even some sweet surprises!

It’s more than just an event, it’s an experience! The event is usually organized by the local tourism board or individual wineries, so keep an eye on their Facebook pages for updates and exact dates. Don’t worry, I’ll remind you closer to the time (if you follow me on Instagram)

Trust me, this is one event you don’t want to miss! It’s the perfect blend of deliciousness, warmth, and discovery. See you there?

P.S. Wear comfy shoes for wandering between wineries and dress warmly (it’s February after all!).

Linz’s WEIN & GENUSS Festival

Calling all Wine Lovers! Kick off your year with Linz’s WEIN & GENUSS Festival!

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and celebrate the start of the wine year at the prestigious WEIN & GENUSS Festival in Linz, Austria! Hosted by Vinaria, the country’s leading wine magazine, this annual event is your chance to savor an exquisite selection of wines and gourmet delights.

Imagine:

• Wandering through aisles showcasing premium wines from all corners of Austria and beyond. Discover hidden gems from local vineyards and rediscover classics from international wineries.
• Indulging in a culinary adventure: Pair your wine tastings with mouthwatering regional delicacies like Upper Austrian bacon, gourmet meatloaf, and fresh crêpes. Don’t forget the traditional Kaiserschmarren with apricot jam for a sweet treat!
• Expanding your wine knowledge: Participate in expertly led masterclasses, where you’ll gain insights and appreciation for different grape varieties and regions.
• Soaking up the festive atmosphere: Mingle with fellow wine enthusiasts, chat with passionate producers, and create lasting memories.

Planning your trip is easy:

• Convenient location: The Design Center Linz is readily accessible by public transportation.
• Parking options: If you’re driving, underground and outdoor parking are available on-site for a fee.
• Flexible ticket options: Choose between single-day or two-day passes, with special discounts for Vinaria subscribers and members of the OÖ Nachrichten-Club.

Ready to raise a glass and kick off your year with a delicious celebration?

Here’s what you need to do:

• Visit the official website for more information and exact dates: WEIN & GENUSS LINZ (vinaria.at)
• Book your tickets early to secure your spot.
• Wear comfortable shoes for wandering around the festival grounds.
• Consider staying overnight in Linz to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

I can’t wait to see you there!

April

My Birthday!

And you can be sure it’s going to be a wine festival ha!

Feel free to drop by if you’re in Toulon, I’d love to meet up! Prost

The Wachau Wine & Gourmet Festival

Hold onto your taste buds, foodie friend! I just uncovered the ultimate 15-day adventure in the heart of Austria, the Wachau Valley. Imagine rolling vineyards, charming villages, and non-stop indulgence in all things gourmet.

Think exclusive dinners where we dine like royalty, tiny wine tastings where we chat up the actual winemakers, and food pairings that’ll blow our minds (and taste buds!). But wait, there’s more!

We’re talking insightful talks and workshops where we become culinary ninjas, lively parties to dance the night away, and even exhibitions showcasing the coolest local treats. Plus, immersive tours that take us right into the heart of it all? Sign us up!

This festival has been rocking since 2008, so you know it’s gotta be good. But here’s the cool part: it’s all thanks to a dream team collaboration! Local venues take the lead, with the festival board giving a helping hand. They even have the experts from Vinaria magazine (think wine bible!) on board. To top it off, tourism gurus join the party to handle all the nitty-gritty stuff like hotels and travel.

Wein am Berg

Buckle up, because I’m about to tell you about an event that’ll rock your taste buds and blow your mind! Imagine being surrounded by snow-capped peaks in the charming town of Sölden, Austria. Now, picture yourself at a luxurious 5-star hotel, indulging in gourmet meals paired with exquisite wines… that’s Wein am Berg!

This exclusive festival is like a dream come true for foodies and wine enthusiasts. Imagine award-winning chefs crafting delicious dishes, perfectly paired with top-notch Austrian and international wines. Not only that, but renowned winemakers will be there to share their passion and expertise, taking you on a journey through the world of viticulture.

But wait, there’s more! This isn’t just about wining and dining (although that’s pretty amazing). You can also:

• Join wine-tasting masterclasses: Dive deeper into your favorite wines and discover hidden gems.
• Explore the art of winemaking: Go on guided tours and see how magic happens.
• Hike to the summit of Gaislachkogl: Enjoy a breathtaking view, and yes, sip a glass of wine at 10,000 feet! (Talk about an accomplishment!)

And for something truly special, try the exclusive Pino 3000. This unique blend of Pinot Noir grapes from Austria, Germany, and Italy is aged in an ice cellar at the mountain peak, creating a complex and unforgettable flavor. (Just imagine the bragging rights!)

This festival is intimate, so book your tickets early to secure the best experiences. Savor the atmosphere, mingle with other wine lovers, and don’t forget to explore the stunning alpine scenery!

Trust me, Wein am Berg is more than just an event; it’s an experience that will stay with you long after the last sip. Check out their website for more info and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! (https://weinamberg.at)

P.S. Wear comfy shoes for exploring and dress warmly – you’re at high altitude!

Pitztal Wine & Food Festival

Calling all foodies and wine lovers! Get ready to raise a glass and tantalize your taste buds at the Pitztal Wine & Food Festival, a vibrant celebration of regional flavors held in the heart of the stunning Pitztal Valley in Austria.

Picture this: Nestled amidst breathtaking Alpine scenery, the charming village of Jerzens comes alive with over 30 wine booths showcasing the finest offerings from Tyrol and beyond. Sip on delectable Austrian wines as you savor traditional Tyrolean specialties like Käsespätzle (cheese noodles) and Speck (cured ham) or indulge in international delights. Live music fills the air, creating a festive atmosphere that draws in both locals and tourists.

Here’s what you can expect:

• A wonderland of wines: Explore over 30 booths featuring a diverse selection of regional wines from Tyrol and other Austrian wine regions. Discover hidden gems and rediscover old favorites as you chat with passionate winemakers.
• A culinary adventure: Embark on a delicious journey through Tyrolean cuisine. From hearty Schnitzel and fluffy Kaiserschmarrn (pancake) to savory sausages and creamy cheeses, there’s something to tantalize every palate. International food stalls also offer a wider variety of flavors to explore.
• Live entertainment: Let the music set the mood! Throughout the festival, enjoy lively performances by local musicians, creating a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere.
• Interactive experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culinary scene through cooking demonstrations and workshops. Learn the secrets of preparing traditional Tyrolean dishes and pick up some tips to impress your friends back home.
• Festive atmosphere: Soak up the vibrant energy as locals and tourists come together to celebrate food, wine, and good company. Make new friends, share laughter, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Tips for a memorable experience:

• Book your accommodation early: Especially if Easter falls during the festival week, hotels, guesthouses, and apartments fill up quickly.
• Consider renting a car: While public transportation options are available, they are limited. Having a car gives you more flexibility to explore the surrounding area.
• Bring cash: While some vendors may accept credit cards, having cash on hand is always convenient for smaller purchases.
• Dress warmly: The evenings in the mountains can get chilly, so bring layers to adjust to the changing temperatures.
• Embrace the atmosphere: Relax, mingle with others, and savor the moment. This is a festival to be enjoyed at your own pace.

Ready to raise a glass and celebrate the good life? The Pitztal Wine & Food Festival awaits! For more information and exact dates, check out the Austrian Tirol website: https://www.tyrol.com/things-to-do/events/all-events/e-pitztal-spring-snow-wine-food-festival

May

The Wachau Wine Spring festival

Imagine this: rolling vineyards, charming villages, and unlimited tastings of the region’s famous Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and Chardonnay! We can wander from winery to winery, chatting with winemakers and sipping sunshine in a glass. Feeling hungry? They’ve got us covered with traditional Austrian food like schnitzel and sachertorte – get ready for a flavor explosion!

But that’s not all! This festival is all about learning too. We can join seminars and tastings with the experts, even take guided tours through the vineyards to see where the magic happens. And after all that wining and dining, the first night ends with a cozy evening at a castle with music and more wine – sounds dreamy, right?

The best part? It’s super affordable! We just need a wristband for around €30, which covers tastings, free public transport, and even entrance to the castle party (with discounted wine, of course!).

Here’s the thing, though: accommodation fills up fast in this wine haven, so booking early is key. We could also explore the valley by train or boat, soaking in the beautiful scenery between sips. And trust me, the local food is a must-try – think melt-in-your-mouth schnitzel and decadent chocolate cake!

So, what do you say? Are you ready to ditch the ordinary and embark on this epic wine adventure with me? Just imagine the stories we’ll have to tell! Let me know if you’re in, and we can start planning our perfect Wachau escape!

Karakterre: Central Europe’s Hub for Organic and Natural Wines

Karakterre stands tall as a beacon for organic, biodynamic, and natural wines, both in Austria and the USA. This unique event celebrates eco-conscious wine production, showcasing the incredible dedication and passion that goes into these environmentally friendly wines.

More than a niche, a movement:

Karakterre isn’t just about tasting delicious wines; it’s about delving into the ethos of sustainability and the respect winemakers across the region have for the land. The festival aligns with Österreich Wein Marketing’s strategy to promote not just Austrian wine, but also the principles of natural viticulture, a necessary step for the future of the global wine industry.

Transatlantic presence:

What makes Karakterre truly remarkable is its presence on both sides of the Atlantic, offering two distinct experiences:

• Eisenstadt, Austria: Immerse yourself in the old-world charm of Austrian vineyards at the historic Esterhazy Castle for a two-day event typically held in May.
• New York City: Experience the bustling energy of the Big Apple at Rockefeller Center for a one-day event usually held in November.

Vievinum

Hey wine lovers, forget Cannes, forget Hollywood – buckle up for the VieVinum, the glittering event where Austria’s wine world lights up!

Picture this:

• Vienna’s stunning Hofburg Imperial Palace sets the stage, dripping with history and elegance.
• Imagine two decades of showcasing Austria’s finest wines, all gathered under one roof. We’re talking top wineries, exclusive drops, and a chance to taste the future of Austrian vino.
• Forget just tasting, get in the know! Masterclasses with wine wizards, workshops to deepen your knowledge, and discussions that shape the trends – this is education with a delicious twist.
• Fancy dinners where food and wine tango in perfect harmony? VieVinum serves up elegant pairings that are like conversations on your plate.
• Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, VieVinum has something for everyone. Discover hidden gems, find new favorites, and leave with a deeper appreciation for Austrian wine heritage in every sip.

This isn’t just an event, it’s an experience. Dive into the heart of Austria’s wine scene, make connections, and leave with a newfound passion for this incredible region.

Ready to walk the red carpet (or wine-soaked aisle)? Head over to their website for more info and tickets. Trust me, this is one event you won’t want to miss!

July

Kufstein wine festival

If you’re planning a summer trip to Tirol, Austria, get ready to raise a glass at the Kufstein Wine Festival!

Imagine this: stunning views of the Tyrolean Alps, charming town vibes in Kufstein, and over 100 booths overflowing with delicious Austrian and Italian wines, especially from Kufstein’s twin towns Rovereto and Langenlois. Sounds pretty amazing, right?

This popular festival usually takes place in mid-July, transforming the beautiful Kufstein town park into a haven for wine enthusiasts and foodies alike. Here’s what you can expect:

• A wine adventure: Embark on a journey through a diverse selection of Austrian and Italian wines. Discover hidden gems from Kufstein’s twin towns and rediscover old favorites. Chat with passionate winemakers and learn all about their craft.
• Foodie heaven: Pair your wine tastings with delectable Tirolean specialties. Think hearty Schnitzel, fluffy Kaiserschmarrn pancakes, and savory sausages – your taste buds will thank you! International food stalls also offer wider culinary adventures.
• Live music & good vibes: Let the lively music set the mood! Throughout the festival, local musicians fill the air with their tunes, creating a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere.
• Mingling & making memories: This isn’t just about the wine (although that’s a big part of it!). Mingle with locals and other visitors, share laughter, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Insider tips for a grape-tastic experience:

• Book your accommodation early: Kufstein gets busy during peak season, so secure your cozy room in advance.
• Comfortable shoes are key: You’ll be doing some walking around the festival grounds.
• Cash is king: Not all vendors accept cards, so bring some cash for easy purchases.
• Pace yourself: Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint! Savor the wines responsibly and stay hydrated.
• Overnight stay recommended: Consider staying in Kufstein or nearby to avoid late-night travel hassles.
• Stay updated: Check the official website or social media pages closer to the date for any last-minute info.

So, are you ready to clink glasses and celebrate good times at the Kufstein Wine Festival? I know I am!

August

Well the sun is out so naturally wine if flowing.

Take a stroll in any town or village and you’ll be sure to stumble accross some wine festivities! And that’s the best way to enjoy them : naturally and without planning.

Let a “normal” day become a magical day.

September

This is the Sturm season!!

Visit any Heuriger and taste the Sturm.

Uhudlersturmfest

A Sturmfest I would recommend would be the the Uhudlersturmfest. It is a festival celebrating the arrival of the new Uhudler wine. This wine is a slightly sweet, spritzy drink made from a non-vinifera hybrid variety, that growns mainly (and only) in Eisenberg.

This two-day festival is traditionally held in late September in the historic Kellerviertel (cellar district) of Heiligenbrunn, Austria.

The main attraction is the freshly fermented Uhudler Sturm, offered at booths throughout the festival by local winemakers.

It attracted thousands of visitors who enjoyed the food, drinks, and atmosphere.

You can find more information about the Uhudlersturmfest on the Kellerviertel Heiligenbrunn website (available in German): https://www.freizeitferien.info/de/event/53-uhudler-sturmfest

If you’re interested in attending the festival in the future, keep an eye on the website for updates and ticket information.

Retzer Weinlesefest

Dude, forget Oktoberfest – the Retzer Weinlesefest is where it’s at! Imagine this: three days of pure Austrian awesomeness in the charming town of Retz, all celebrating incredible wine, rich traditions, and a whole lot of fun.

Think live music filling the air, a massive parade with floats and costumes, and enough wine tastings to make your head spin (in a good way, of course!). Plus, you can chow down on delicious Austrian food, watch crafts demonstrations, and even take part in some family-friendly activities.

The best part? It’s all happening on the last weekend of September this year, so mark your calendars! Here’s the lowdown:

• Dates: September 27th to 29th (Friday to Sunday)
• Location: Retz Main Square, Retz, Austria
• Tickets: Grab them online or at the tourist office beforehand (€7), they’re €8 at the door.
• Accommodation: Book early, Retz gets packed! Look for options in town or nearby.
• Food & Drinks: Get ready for local food stalls, Heurigen stands with regional specialties, and all the wine tastings you can handle.
• Activities: Opening ceremony, parade, music stages, wine booths, crafts, kids’ stuff, even a fireworks display!

Check out the official website (https://www.retzer-land.at/weinlesefest) for more details – program, specific times, the whole shebang. Trust me, this is one festival you won’t want to miss!

October – December

The end of the year is usually very rich in festivals with the harvest season, the Sturm season and the Advent season of course.

Thus every village (Dorf) has its own festivities and providing an exhaustive calendar would be an never-ending post.

So, if you’re in Niederösterreich (Wachau, Kamptal, Kremstal…), I would recommend you check out this website which contains a list (with all the practical information you need) of all the festivites taking place this year.

Conclusion : Annual Calendar Of Austrian Wine Festivals

So to recap :

Additional Tips:

• Book accommodation early, especially for popular festivals.
• Consider public transportation options, but renting a car might offer more flexibility.
• Bring cash for some vendors.
• Dress warmly in higher altitudes and for evenings.
• Pace yourself and stay hydrated.
• Have fun and enjoy the experience!

So, where are you planning to go this year? Let me know in the comments!