Winter sports, Almabtrieb, solstice fires & more
Events in Bad Gastein
The Gastein Valley is known not only for its mountains and thermal water. Throughout the year, Gastein Valley events take place that make a holiday at Hotel Sonngastein even more memorable: winter sports events, traditional festivals, atmospheric concerts with open-air moments and a colourful autumn with farmers’ markets and Almabtrieb celebrations.
Top-class winter sport
FIS Snowboard World Cup Gastein
Every January, Bad Gastein becomes a hotspot for snowboard fans from all over the world. The FIS Snowboard World Cup brings the world’s best athletes to the Gastein Valley, along with thousands of enthusiastic spectators. Spectacular races, a great atmosphere and a festival feeling make it a winter experience for the whole family.
Tradition & local customs
Kirtag in Bad Hofgastein
Around 150 market stalls, music, the smell of roast chicken and roasted nuts: the Kirtag in Bad Hofgastein in September is one of the most popular Gastein Valley events. Coconut kisses, Turkish honey, showmen’s rides, craft stalls and plenty of entertainment – in Bad Hofgastein, a stroll through the market is simply part of the experience.
Bad Gastein in flames
Summer solstice with mountain fires
On the shortest night of the year, the mountains around Bad Gastein begin to glow. For the summer solstice, traditional mountain fires are lit on the surrounding peaks. It is a fascinating spectacle, best enjoyed from the terrace at Sonngastein. Deeply rooted in Alpine tradition, this custom delights visitors every summer.
Summer events in the Gastein Valley
Open-air concert Summer Sounds
For over 10 years, Summer Sounds Gastein has brought international music stars to the Alpenarena Bad Hofgastein. In 2026, the event celebrates its anniversary with a special double pack: NENA and Bonnie Tyler will take to the stage on 1 August. Two icons of the 80s, one evening, mountain views included. Tickets are available directly from the spa and tourism association Bad Hofgastein or online via Öticket.com.
Colourful festival of the Nassfeld shepherds
Almabtrieb in the Gastein Valley
When the days grow shorter in autumn and the animals return from the alpine pastures, the Nassfeld shepherds’ festival begins. The traditional sheep drive in Gastein is a colourful celebration with decorated animals, music and living local customs. A festival that shows how vibrant Alpine tradition still is in the Gastein Valley.
Always in tune with what’s happening in Gastein
Your personal event tips from the hotel
Your Zitka host family and the reception team are always well informed about what is happening in the Gastein Valley and which events are worth visiting during your stay. Just ask us at any time – we’re happy to share personal recommendations for current events and will make sure you don’t miss any special highlights.
Which events take place in the Gastein Valley?
The Gastein Valley hosts sporting events, concerts, cultural festivals, traditional celebrations and culinary events throughout the year.
Typical event highlights include:
- international winter-sport competitions
- open-air concerts and classical music events
- art and cultural festivals
- traditional fairs, farmers' markets and local celebrations
- summer-solstice fires and Almabtrieb festivals
- running, hiking and other sporting events
- culinary festivals and regional food events
The exact programme and dates change from year to year. The Zitka host family and reception team will be happy to recommend events taking place during your stay.
Where can I find the latest event dates?
The latest dates are published in the official Gastein destination event calendar.
Events can be filtered by date, location and theme. The individual event entries also provide information about the venue, starting time, admission, tickets and possible changes.
As events can be postponed or changed because of the weather, we recommend checking the information again shortly before attending.
Reception will also be happy to explain which events are taking place during your stay and which ones best match your interests.
Are the events suitable for families?
Yes. Many events in the Gastein Valley are interesting for families and children.
Examples include family concerts, markets, traditional festivals, Almabtrieb celebrations, sporting events, children's programmes and various nature and adventure activities.
Whether an event is suitable for a particular family depends on the children's ages and the type of event. Before attending, families should check:
- age recommendations and possible age restrictions
- starting time and expected duration
- admission prices and ticket requirements
- weather conditions and suitable clothing
- transport, parking and walking distances
Reception will be happy to recommend an event suitable for children, teenagers or the whole family.
Does the hotel help guests plan their journey to an event?
Yes. The reception team will be happy to help plan the journey and provide information about public transport, journey times, stops and possible parking facilities.
Many venues in Bad Gastein and Bad Hofgastein can be reached by bus or train. With the Guest Mobility Ticket, overnight guests can use numerous public transport connections within the province of Salzburg during their stay without purchasing an additional ticket.
Major events may involve road closures, limited parking or altered timetables. It is therefore advisable to plan the journey in good time and check current information before setting off.
Simply tell reception which event you would like to attend. The team will help you find a suitable public transport connection or driving route.