Seefestl am Turnersee1.2 km · 16 min on foot · 3 min by bikeEarly JuneFor two days there’s a festival on the west shore of the Turnersee at the Bike Break.
Photo: Mefusbren69, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Please check dates and times with the organiser before you go.
For two days there’s a festival on the west shore of the Turnersee at the Bike Break. From 11:00 more than 20 regional craftspeople offer jewellery, home and garden decorations and culinary treats, and a DJ plays. For children there’s a petting zoo, a craft corner and face painting, and in 2026 also juggling and acrobatics shows, graffiti and breakdance workshops, a bouncy castle and a tournament on the giant table football. You can easily stroll there on foot.
Every year in early June, Fri and Sat 11:00–18:00; 2027 date not yet known
At a glance
Free admission; giant table football tournament €40 per team (as of 2026)
Location: Bike Break on the west shore of the Turnersee, St. Primus
The market goes ahead in bad weather too
Our tip
For the giant table football tournament on Saturday you need to sign up by the day before; late entries are possible on site until 12:00 while places are available.
During the Seefestl, admission to the Strandbad Moskito just opposite is free on both days.
Genuss-Seefest am Klopeiner See4.2 km · 12 min by bike · 6 min by carSeptember, Sat eveningOne September evening, the Seelach-Zentrum on the west shore of the Klopeiner See becomes a meeting place for regional food: producers from southern Carinthia offer their specialities, such as the well-known Jauntaler salami, with drinks by the lake – a …
Please check dates and times with the organiser before you go.
One September evening, the Seelach-Zentrum on the west shore of the Klopeiner See becomes a meeting place for regional food: producers from southern Carinthia offer their specialities, such as the well-known Jauntaler salami, with drinks by the lake – a convivial end to the swimming season. No detailed programme has been published; check the date and schedule in advance with the tourist information in Seelach.
Every year on a Saturday in September, from 18:30
At a glance
Venue: Seelach-Zentrum, Schulstraße 10, St. Kanzian
Focus on regional producers and food
Our tip
You can find out next year’s date from the Klopeiner See tourist information in the Seelach-Zentrum.
Open-air concerts & music evenings at the Klopeiner See4.2 km · 12 min by bike · 6 min by carJuly–SeptemberOn summer evenings, brass bands, choirs and small bands play all around the Klopeiner See – on the lake promenade on the north shore in Seelach, on hotel terraces and in restaurants.
Please check dates and times with the organiser before you go.
On summer evenings, brass bands, choirs and small bands play all around the Klopeiner See – on the lake promenade on the north shore in Seelach, on hotel terraces and in restaurants. In 2026 the evening series “PromenadenZauber” ran on the waterfront promenade (August to September, evenings from 18:00). The dates change every year; the current programme is in the events calendar on suedkaernten.at and is posted at the tourist information office in Seelach.
July–September, selected evenings
At a glance
Venue: lake promenade, north shore, Seelach
Mostly July–September, evenings from about 18:00
Open-air concerts on the promenade are usually free
Our tip
Combine the evening with a stroll along the promenade and an ice cream by the lake.
If the weather is uncertain, ask at the tourist information office (tel. +43 4239 2222) whether the concert is going ahead.
PromenadenZauber on the north shore4.6 km · 14 min by bike · 6 min by carAug–Sep, eveningsOn selected summer evenings the lake promenade on the north shore of the Klopeiner See in Klopein becomes a lively place to stroll: from 18:00 there is live music, stalls with regional food and drink and plenty going on by the water.
Please check dates and times with the organiser before you go.
On selected summer evenings the lake promenade on the north shore of the Klopeiner See in Klopein becomes a lively place to stroll: from 18:00 there is live music, stalls with regional food and drink and plenty going on by the water. You wander along the promenade, have a bite to eat and stay until it gets dark over the lake. Entry is free, and for families and couples it is an easy evening without the car, as there are bus stops right on the north shore.
August–September, evenings from 18:00 · Every year on around 16 evenings in August and September, each from 18:00; also on the eve of “See in Flammen” in July. Dates for 2027 not yet published
At a glance
Lake promenade, north shore, Klopein (St. Kanzian)
Live music and food, free entry
Our tip
You can find out the exact dates for 2027 at the tourist information office at Schulstraße 10, just above the promenade.
The farmers’ market (Tue and Fri from 16:00) and PromenadenZauber combine nicely into an evening on the north shore.
See in Flammen & lake festivals4.6 km · 15 min by bike · 6 min by carMay–SeptemberThe highlight of the summer on the Klopeiner See is “See in Flammen” (“Lake in Flames”), one of the biggest lake fireworks displays in Austria, held every year at the beginning of July.
The highlight of the summer on the Klopeiner See is “See in Flammen” (“Lake in Flames”), one of the biggest lake fireworks displays in Austria, held every year at the beginning of July. On the evening before, the PromenadenZauber invites you to stroll along the north-shore promenade; on the main evening there is a farmers’ market, street theatre, jugglers, music and fire shows from the afternoon onwards, before the big fireworks light up the sky over the lake at 23:00.
Throughout the season there are more festivals: the family lake festival at Whitsun with lots of attractions for children, the Seefestl am Turnersee in early June (right near us), the fun Sautrogrennen (pig-trough race) at the end of July, in which teams paddle across the lake in wooden troughs, and the Genuss-Seefest in September with regional specialities. From May to September a water and light show also paints colourful pictures on the Klopeiner See every Thursday and Sunday. The exact dates change every year – we are happy to tell you what’s on during your stay.
May to September; “See in Flammen” in early July
At a glance
See in Flammen: early July, fireworks at 23:00
Family lake festival at Whitsun (duck ticket free with the Aktiv Card)
Seefestl am Turnersee: early June
Sautrogrennen (pig-trough race): end of July
Genuss-Seefest: September, Seelach
Water and light show: May–September, Thu & Sun evenings
Our tip
On festival evenings come by bike or on foot – parking spaces are scarce.
For the fireworks, secure a spot on the promenade early.
Sautrogrennen (pig-trough race) on the Klopeiner See5.2 km · 16 min by bike · 8 min by carLate JulyOnce every summer, teams race each other across the Klopeiner See paddling wooden troughs of the kind once used for scalding pigs.
Once every summer, teams race each other across the Klopeiner See paddling wooden troughs of the kind once used for scalding pigs. The event is organised by the Musikverein Möchling-Klopeiner See brass band and takes place at the Campingbad Nord on the north shore. Most recently, around 30 teams took part. You can watch from the shore, with brass band music, dancing and food. Bring the children – they have especially great fun – and pack sun protection and swimming things.
Every year on a Saturday at the end of July, from 14:00
At a glance
Venue: Campingbad Nord, north shore of the Klopeiner See
Organiser: Musikverein Möchling-Klopeiner See
Part of the “Blasmusik im Sommer” series, with a concert by the lake
Our tip
Come early, as there are only a few parking spaces around the north shore that afternoon.
Ask the St. Kanzian tourist information office for next year’s date and time.
Water and light show on the Klopeiner See5.2 km · 16 min by bike · 8 min by carThu & Sun, May–SepSince summer 2026, images have been projected onto a water screen around 40 metres wide on the north shore of the Klopeiner See after dark, accompanied by music and light effects.
Please check dates and times with the organiser before you go.
Since summer 2026, images have been projected onto a water screen around 40 metres wide on the north shore of the Klopeiner See after dark, accompanied by music and light effects. Two productions by Austrian artists are shown: the fairy tale “Elementaria” about a fairy from the Klopeiner See, which children enjoy too, and the abstract image-and-sound work “ÆTERNA PROFUNDIS” by Studio MO:YA. You watch from the shore at the Strandbad Camping Nord lido, and admission is free.
Late May to mid-September · Every Thursday and Sunday after dark
At a glance
Starts at dusk, around 21:00–21:30
Location: Strandbad Camping Nord, Seelach
Free admission
Our tip
Come a little early and bring a jacket for later.
In bad weather the show is cancelled at short notice, so check the event page beforehand.
Carinthian song evenings & choir concertsall over the regionJune–SeptemberCarinthian folk song (Kärntnerlied) and Slovenian choral singing are part of everyday life in southern Carinthia: almost every village has a choral society, often bilingual.
Please check dates and times with the organiser before you go.
Carinthian folk song (Kärntnerlied) and Slovenian choral singing are part of everyday life in southern Carinthia: almost every village has a choral society, often bilingual. In summer the choirs perform at song evenings, lake festivals, village fairs and in churches – mostly in the evening, often outdoors, and frequently with free entry or a voluntary donation. Dates are announced at short notice, so look out for posters in the villages and the region’s events calendar.
June–September, individual evenings · On individual evenings in summer, dates at short notice
At a glance
Part-singing in German and Slovenian
Mostly summer evenings, often as part of lake festivals and village fairs
Dates in the events calendar at suedkaernten.at
Our tip
Ask at the Klopein tourist office for this week’s dates – many evenings are only announced locally.
Helmrich-Lambrecht-Sternwarte St. Kanzian4.5 km · 14 min by bike · 6 min by carJul–Sep, clear eveningsSouthern Carinthia is a sunny part of the world – and clear summer nights are plentiful here.
Southern Carinthia is a sunny part of the world – and clear summer nights are plentiful here. In St. Kanzian the IAAZ astronomy club has run the Helmrich-Lambrecht-Sternwarte (observatory) since 2009. In the summer months the club members invite you to evening guided tours: through the telescopes you look at craters on the moon, the rings of Saturn, Jupiter with its moons or distant star clusters, and the volunteer astronomers are happy to answer every question from young and old.
Because everything depends on the weather, dates are announced at short notice – a tour only takes place under a clear sky and with enough people signed up. A tour usually lasts around an hour and a half and only begins after dark – a special adventure for children, who for once get to stay up late.
July to mid-September, evenings, only under a clear sky
At a glance
Operator: IAAZ astronomy club, since 2009
Sternweg 5, 9122 St. Kanzian
Guided tours July to mid-September, from approx. 21:00, approx. 1.5 h
Only under a clear sky and with a minimum number of participants
Our tip
Ask about dates at the tourist information office in Seelach right at the start of your holiday.
Bring warm clothes – even in high summer it gets chilly at night.
Around the new moon the stars and the Milky Way are at their best.
The Casino Velden stands right on the Corso, the lakeside promenade of Velden am Wörthersee. Roulette, blackjack and poker are played at the tables, and there is also a slot machine area. You can eat beforehand in the restaurant “Die Yacht”; packages such as “Dinner & Casino” combine dinner and gaming chips. Entry is from age 18 with a valid official photo ID – copies or digital IDs are not accepted.
For an evening out, allow for the drive to the Wörthersee and set off in the late afternoon: first a stroll along the promenade, then dinner and the casino. Smart casual clothing is expected; evening wear is not necessary. The casino is also a welcome change for adults on rainy days.
All year
At a glance
Table games daily 17:00–3:00, slot machines from 10:00; closed on 24 December
From age 18, original photo ID only
Dress code smart casual
“Dinner & Casino” package €79 (as of 2026)
Our tip
Combine your visit with an evening stroll along the Corso in Velden.
Book a table at the restaurant “Die Yacht” online in advance.
Shooting-star night (Perseids)all over the regionMid-AugustEvery August the Earth crosses the dust trail of a comet, and the Perseids appear in the night sky.
Every August the Earth crosses the dust trail of a comet, and the Perseids appear in the night sky. Around the peak on 12/13 August you can see up to 60 shooting stars an hour under a clear, dark sky, most of them in the second half of the night. The best place to watch is away from the lit-up lakeshores, for example in a meadow or on a rise towards the Karawanks. Lie down on a blanket, give your eyes 20 minutes to adjust to the dark and simply look up at the sky – you don’t need a telescope.
End of July – mid-August (peak approx. 12/13 August) · Every year approx. 17 July–24 August, peak on the night of 12/13 August
At a glance
Every year approx. 17 July – 24 August
Peak around 12/13 August
Up to 60 shooting stars per hour
Best time: after midnight until dawn
Our tip
Bring a blanket, warm clothes and insect repellent, and keep your phone screen dark.
Check the moon phase beforehand – a bright moon swallows many of the fainter shooting stars.
Vintage moped meet in Gösselsdorf10 km · 26 min by bike · 11 min by carMid-MayAt the Moped-Nostalgie-Treffen, old 50 cc mopeds and light motorcycles gather at the Gasthof Wallerwirt in Gösselsdorf.
At the Moped-Nostalgie-Treffen, old 50 cc mopeds and light motorcycles gather at the Gasthof Wallerwirt in Gösselsdorf. On both days a guided ride sets off at 11:00 – in 2026 on Friday towards Globasnitz and on Saturday as a lakes tour with a stop at the Klopeiner See. On Friday evening there is a barbecue in the apple orchard, where you can take a leisurely look at the machines. On Sunday the meet ends with a late-morning drinks get-together (Frühschoppen).
Every year in mid-May, Friday and Saturday, late-morning drinks (Frühschoppen) on Sunday
Farant street festival, Globasnitz16 km · 52 min by bike · 17 min by car15 AugustOn the Feast of the Assumption, the centre of Globasnitz/Globasnica turns into one long festival street with market stalls, music and farmhouse food.
On the Feast of the Assumption, the centre of Globasnitz/Globasnica turns into one long festival street with market stalls, music and farmhouse food. In the Jauntal valley, “Farant” used to be the end of a hard week’s work on the farm, celebrated with a snack, cider and dancing. The day begins with a pilgrimage mass, at 10:30 there is the festival procession and the tapping of the first beer barrel, and at 17:00 the Jauntaler Salamikrone is awarded for the best farmhouse salami.
Every year on 15 August (Feast of the Assumption)
At a glance
Every year on 15 August
Programme: 9:30 mass, 10:30 festival procession, 17:00 Salamikrone
Bilingual festival (German/Slovene)
Organiser: municipality of Globasnitz
Our tip
Come for the festival procession in the morning and park on the edge of the village, as the centre is closed off for the festival.
Combine your visit with a walk up the nearby Hemmaberg.
Raising of the Freyung in Bleiburg25 km · 24 min by carLate AugustTwo weeks before the Bleiburger Wiesenmarkt, the Freyung is set up at Kiki Kogelnik’s Freyung fountain on the 10.-Oktober-Platz.
Two weeks before the Bleiburger Wiesenmarkt, the Freyung is set up at Kiki Kogelnik’s Freyung fountain on the 10.-Oktober-Platz. The decorated pole with the town’s coat of arms and a wooden sword arm is a medieval symbol of market freedom. As the bells ring, the town judge leads the town council and groups in traditional costume in a procession from the town hall to the fountain, accompanied by accordion music. Afterwards there’s the first Wiesenmarkt mead from the Lebzelterei Stöckl and the tapping of a beer barrel. The ceremony is short and easy to combine with a stroll through Bleiburg.
End of August · Every year on the Saturday two weeks before the Wiesenmarkt, 11:00
At a glance
Freyungsbrunnen, 10.-Oktober-Platz, Bleiburg
Free admission
First tasting of the Wiesenmarkt mead
Our tip
Arrive a few minutes before 11:00 to see the procession from the town hall to the fountain.
The Werner Berg Museum is just a few steps away and fits nicely into the outing.
Bleiburger Wiesenmarkt25 km · 26 min by carEarly SeptemberSince 1393, the Wiesenmarkt has been held on the market meadow in Bleiburg around St Giles’ Day (1 September) – the oldest and largest folk festival in Lower Carinthia.
Since 1393, the Wiesenmarkt has been held on the market meadow in Bleiburg around St Giles’ Day (1 September) – the oldest and largest folk festival in Lower Carinthia. Over four days, around 340 exhibitors line up across almost 7 hectares: stalls selling household goods and crafts, gingerbread and doughnuts, farm machinery, plus a Ferris wheel, rides, a petting zoo, a traditional outdoor bowling alley and festival tents. On Saturday the festival parade makes its way across the grounds. Allow half a day; it’s quieter in the morning.
Early September, 4 days · Every year around 1 September, four days, festival parade on Saturday
At a glance
Since 1393, around 140,000 visitors
Approx. 340 exhibitors on 6.8 ha
Our tip
If possible, come by bus or train – there are extra services for the Wiesenmarkt, and the car parks around Bleiburg fill up quickly.
Village fairs, Wiesenmarkt & traditions25 km · 26 min by carSummer to SeptemberIf you want to experience Carinthia at its warmest, go to a Kirchtag (village fair).
If you want to experience Carinthia at its warmest, go to a Kirchtag (village fair). In many villages around the Klopeiner See the feast of the parish patron saint is celebrated in summer – with Mass, brass band music, dancing and Carinthian delicacies, often organised by the fire brigades and local clubs. Locals and guests naturally sit at the same table, and quite often a Carinthian song rings out, in some places in Slovene too, because southern Carinthia is bilingual. The dates are usually announced at short notice on posters – just ask us where the next one is.
The biggest event in the region is the Bleiburger Wiesenmarkt at the beginning of September: held around St Giles’ Day since 1393, it is the oldest and largest folk festival in southern Carinthia – with around 300 stalls, a Ferris wheel, a craft market and a petting zoo.
Summer to September
At a glance
Kirchtage: patron saint festivals in the villages, mostly in summer
Bleiburger Wiesenmarkt since 1393, early September, approx. 300 stalls
Southern Carinthia is bilingual (German/Slovene)
Our tip
Look out for posters in the villages or ask us.
Travel to the Wiesenmarkt by train or shuttle bus.
Bring cash – card payment is often not possible at festivals.
St. Anna Kirchtag (alpine village fair) on the Petzen29 km · 1 h 20 min by carLate July, SunAt the end of July the Petzen Bergbahnen and the mountain’s residents celebrate the traditional Almkirchtag (alpine village fair) at the little chapel of St. Hubert and St. Anna, right next to the top station of the cable car.
At the end of July the Petzen Bergbahnen and the mountain’s residents celebrate the traditional Almkirchtag (alpine village fair) at the little chapel of St. Hubert and St. Anna, right next to the top station of the cable car. The day starts with a Frühschoppen (late-morning drinks with music), at 11:00 there is an open-air festival mass, and afterwards it carries on with live music, dancing and food and drink at the huts. On this day the cable car runs from as early as 7:00; if you prefer, you can walk up.
End of July · Every year on the Sunday around St Anne’s Day (26 July), from 10:00
At a glance
Morning drinks (Frühschoppen) 10:00, festival mass 11:00
Location: chapel by the top station, approx. 1,700 m
Bike park and bike transport closed on this day
Our tip
Bring a warm jacket even in summer – at 1,700 m it is often chilly, even in July.
Go up early: by midday the valley station gets busy.
Klagenfurter Altstadtzauber31 km · 35 min by carEarly AugustEvery year at the beginning of August, the Stadtrichter association holds a three-day street festival in Klagenfurt’s old town.
Every year at the beginning of August, the Stadtrichter association holds a three-day street festival in Klagenfurt’s old town. In 2026 it took place for the 30th time. On six squares there is live music from jazz and rock to folk music, plus jugglers, stilt walkers, acrobatics and barrel-organ players. Carinthia’s largest flea market also takes place, and there is a dedicated children’s area (Kinderwelt). The innkeepers keep everyone supplied with food and drink.
Every year at the beginning of August, three days; opening on the first evening at 19:00 on the Neuer Platz
At a glance
Stages at the Neuer Platz, Alter Platz, Heuplatz and in the Landhaushof, among others
Street festival with flea market and children’s area
Our tip
It’s better to take the train to Klagenfurt, as parking in the city centre is scarce on these days.
The stage programme is published as a PDF on stadtrichter.at around July.
The Wiesenmarkt, first recorded in 1362, is Carinthia’s oldest folk festival. It starts on the last Saturday in September with a big procession through the town and lasts ten days: a funfair with rides and a children’s lane, festival halls with music, festival inns, a traders’ and flea market, and local traditions. On the last evening the “Freyung” is ceremonially taken down to close the market. A rewarding outing for guests at the end of the season, especially with children.
End of September – early October (10 days) · Every year from the last Saturday in September, for ten days
At a glance
Over 650 years old – one of the oldest markets in Austria
Procession on the opening Saturday from 10:00
Grounds on Villacher Straße/Marktstraße, near the Westbahnhof
Extra S-Bahn trains while the market is on
Our tip
Come by train: from the Westbahnhof it is only a few steps to the grounds.
The Villacher Kirchtag is one of Austria’s biggest folk festivals. For a week the old town becomes a festival zone: live music on several stages every day, folk-costume groups, market stalls, festival tents and fairground rides. The highlight is the big folk-costume parade on Saturday. In the evenings it gets very crowded and loud – for a more relaxed visit with children, the afternoon is better.
Early August · Every year in the week up to the first Saturday in August; 2027 probably 1–7 August
At a glance
Every year for one week, Sunday to Saturday in early August
Opening on Sunday, folk-costume parade on Saturday
Festival zone across the whole of Villach’s old town
Our tip
It is best to come by train, as parking is scarce during festival week.
“Wine & more” wine festival in Völkermarkt15 km · 47 min by bike · 14 min by carSeptemberOnce a year, at the beginning of September, the Bürgerlustpark in Völkermarkt, high above the Völkermarkter Stausee, becomes a meeting place for wine lovers.
Once a year, at the beginning of September, the Bürgerlustpark in Völkermarkt, high above the Völkermarkter Stausee, becomes a meeting place for wine lovers. Around 20 winemakers from Carinthia, other parts of Austria, Slovenia and Italy pour their wines, accompanied by dishes ranging from venison goulash to Kaiserschmarrn, wine ice cream and live music until well into the evening. The festival is organised by the Wirtschaftsverein Zukunft Völkermarkt.
Every year on a Friday in early/mid September
At a glance
Bürgerlustpark, Völkermarkt
Around 20 winemakers from Carinthia, Austria, Slovenia and Italy
Live music in the afternoon and evening
Our tip
If you would like to taste the wines, plan to get home without the car, for example by taxi or bus.
The 2027 date is usually only fixed in the summer – just ask us or the tourist office.
Had’n autumn festival in Neuhaus33 km · 33 min by carSeptemberWhen the buckwheat – called “Had’n” here – blooms pink in the Jauntal, the municipality of Neuhaus celebrates its Had’n Herbstfest (autumn festival).
When the buckwheat – called “Had’n” here – blooms pink in the Jauntal, the municipality of Neuhaus celebrates its Had’n Herbstfest (autumn festival). The innkeepers serve Had’nsterz, Had’nkranznudeln and other buckwheat dishes, along with regional produce and local customs. At the Jauntaler Had’nzentrum in Schwabegg you can see the Had’n mill, and since 2026 the Landgasthof Hafner has had the GenussWerk with a self-service shop for Had’n and Jauntal salami.
Mid/late September · Every year on a weekend in September
At a glance
Had’nzentrum with mill on the village square in Schwabegg
You’ll find the exact programme shortly beforehand on suedkaernten.at; with the bike charging station at the GenussWerk, an e-bike tour fits in nicely too.
“Gackern” – poultry festival in St. Andrä38 km · 35 min by car6–15 Aug 2027For ten days, everything on the Lorettowiese next to the Basilica of Maria Loreto in St. Andrä im Lavanttal revolves around chicken and turkey.
For ten days, everything on the Lorettowiese next to the Basilica of Maria Loreto in St. Andrä im Lavanttal revolves around chicken and turkey. Eight innkeepers from the region cook 35 to 40 different poultry dishes, from Carinthian classics to international recipes. There’s live music every day and a supporting programme, one highlight being the Highlander competitions. Admission is free – you only pay for what you eat and drink. A good plan is an afternoon trip to the Lavanttal that turns into an evening on the festival grounds.
Every year in August over ten days; 2027: 6–15 August
At a glance
Every year in August, 10 days; 2027: 6–15 August
Free admission
Sat, Sun and public holidays from 11:00, weekdays from 16:00 (two innkeepers from 12:00)
Lorettowiese, St. Andrä im Lavanttal
Our tip
Weekend evenings are very crowded, so come during the week or at lunchtime.
From St. Andrä station it’s about a 20-minute walk, and there’s also a dedicated Gackern shuttle.
For four days in mid-September, Udine’s old town becomes Friuli’s big food festival. Around the Piazza Libertà and in the lanes of the old town, stalls offer Friulian wines, San Daniele ham, Montasio cheese and gubana. The osterie stay open late, and there are tastings, workshops and concerts, with a closing concert on Sunday. Plan a whole day for the trip. The easiest option is to park on the edge of town and walk into the old town.
Every year in mid-September, Thursday to Sunday
At a glance
Udine old town, around the Piazza Libertà
Food stalls from Friday, tastings and workshops on Saturday
Programme and site map at friuli-doc.it
Our tip
Come on Friday or Sunday lunchtime – Saturday evening is very crowded.
Check the programme before you go, as buses in the centre are diverted during the festival.
Culinary bus to the autumn food festivalsall over the regionSep–OctIn autumn, Southern Carinthia celebrates its harvest with wine, cider and food festivals, such as the wine festival in Völkermarkt, the Had’n-Fest in Neuhaus or the Sittersdorf wine festival.
Please check dates and times with the organiser before you go.
In autumn, Southern Carinthia celebrates its harvest with wine, cider and food festivals, such as the wine festival in Völkermarkt, the Had’n-Fest in Neuhaus or the Sittersdorf wine festival. The tourism region’s culinary bus takes you to selected festivals and back again, so you can leave the car behind and relax over a glass of wine. The timetable and stops are announced for each festival – ask at the tourist information beforehand.
Sep–Oct · Autumn (September/October), dates depending on the festival
At a glance
Bus trips to food festivals in Southern Carinthia
Season: September to October, depending on the festival calendar
Tourism region info line: +43 4239 2222
Our tip
A few days beforehand, check with the info line whether and when the bus runs to the festival you’d like to visit.
Acoustic Lakeside Festival9.2 km · 37 min by bike · 11 min by carMid-JulySince 2006 an association of music lovers has turned the Sonnegger See near Sittersdorf into a small festival site for one weekend in July.
Since 2006 an association of music lovers has turned the Sonnegger See near Sittersdorf into a small festival site for one weekend in July. On an open-air stage and a tent stage, international and Austrian indie and singer-songwriter acts perform – in 2026, for example, Kate Nash, Cari Cari and the Babyshambles. The festival is run by around 400 volunteers; with about 2,500 visitors it stays intimate and is usually sold out months in advance.
Every year in mid-July, three days; 2027 dates not yet announced
At a glance
Around 2,500 visitors, usually sold out early
Organiser: Verein Acoustic Lakeside, run by volunteers
Our tip
If you want to be there in 2027, keep an eye on the start of advance sales at acousticlakeside.com – tickets are often gone by the beginning of the year.
Starnacht am Wörthersee40 km · 37 min by car9/10 July 2027Once a year, on a weekend in July, Klagenfurt’s Ostbucht (east bay) becomes a huge open-air stage: at the Starnacht am Wörthersee, Schlager and pop stars perform live, and the show is broadcast on ORF and MDR.
Once a year, on a weekend in July, Klagenfurt’s Ostbucht (east bay) becomes a huge open-air stage: at the Starnacht am Wörthersee, Schlager and pop stars perform live, and the show is broadcast on ORF and MDR. In the audience you see the TV production up close, with the stage right on the water. In 2026 around 14,000 visitors came over two evenings. Buy your tickets in advance, and in good time.
Every year in July; 2027: 9/10 July
At a glance
2027: Friday/Saturday, 9/10 July
Location: Ostbucht, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee
Live on ORF 2 and MDR
Advance tickets via starnacht.tv / oeticket
Our tip
Come by public transport or arrive early – parking around the Ostbucht is scarce on show nights.
Bring a jacket; after sunset it cools down quickly by the lake.
Ljubljana Festival101 km · 1 h 35 min by carLate June–early SepEvery summer Ljubljana turns into a festival stage: opera, ballet, orchestral concerts, jazz, musicals and world music, mostly in the Križanke open-air theatre, a monastery courtyard redesigned by Jože Plečnik in the old town, and on Congress Square.
Every summer Ljubljana turns into a festival stage: opera, ballet, orchestral concerts, jazz, musicals and world music, mostly in the Križanke open-air theatre, a monastery courtyard redesigned by Jože Plečnik in the old town, and on Congress Square. An evening concert combines well with a day trip to the city; allow around an hour and a half for the journey back. Tickets are available online via Eventim and at the festival box office.
Late June – early September
At a glance
For over 70 years, every summer
Main venues: Križanke summer theatre and Congress Square
Programme ranging from opera and classical to jazz, pop and film
Our tip
Popular evenings sell out early – have a look at the programme before you arrive.
A light jacket is a good idea for open-air performances at the Križanke.
Festival Lent Maribor111 km · 1 h 55 min by carLate June–early JulyFor nine days at the end of June and beginning of July, the Festival Lent turns the old town of Maribor into one big open-air stage.
For nine days at the end of June and beginning of July, the Festival Lent turns the old town of Maribor into one big open-air stage. At more than 20 venues between the Drava riverbank in the Lent quarter and the city park, there are concerts from pop to jazz, international folklore, street theatre, dance, opera and a children’s programme. In the evenings you can sit at the stalls on the Drava bank and listen to the music; for the big concerts you need tickets.
Late June – early July
At a glance
Since 1993, organised by Narodni dom Maribor
Around 250 events at more than 20 venues
Festival strands: Folkart, JazzLent, street theatre festival Ana Desetnica
Our tip
The programme on nd-mb.si shows which events are free and which need tickets.
Park outside the old town – around Lent it gets very crowded on festival evenings.
Alpen Adria Swim Cup & Swim Run Swim on the Klopeiner See4.5 km · 15 min by bike · 6 min by carLate MayTo open the season, the Klopeiner See becomes an open-water course: in the morning you can swim the Welcome Swim over 5 km, 2.5 km, 1.5 km or 500 m, with children starting over 250 and 500 m. In the afternoon comes the Swim Run Swim – swim, run along the …
To open the season, the Klopeiner See becomes an open-water course: in the morning you can swim the Welcome Swim over 5 km, 2.5 km, 1.5 km or 500 m, with children starting over 250 and 500 m. In the afternoon comes the Swim Run Swim – swim, run along the lakeshore, swim again – with separate classes for children and young people. Start and finish are at the Strandbad Richler lido, with changing rooms and toilets on site; watching from the shore is free.
Every year on a Saturday in late May (Welcome Swim from 10:00, Swim Run Swim from 13:00)
At a glance
Welcome Swim distances: 250 m to 5 km
Swim Run Swim (Open): 1.5 km swim / 5.4 km run / 0.9 km swim
Start/finish: Strandbad Familie Richler, Am See VI 19
Late entries up to 1 hour before each start
Our tip
If you’d like to take part, register in advance via the organiser’s page (race result) – children’s classes need no licence.
For spectators the afternoon is best, when the Swim Run Swim transitions take place right at the lido.
IVV Hiking World Championship at the Klopeiner See 20274.7 km · 15 min by bike · 6 min by car6–11 Sep 2027In September 2027 the Austrian Popular Sports Federation (ÖVV) is hosting the IVV Hiking World Championship around the Klopeiner See and the Turnersee.
In September 2027 the Austrian Popular Sports Federation (ÖVV) is hosting the IVV Hiking World Championship around the Klopeiner See and the Turnersee. Anyone can join in, and it is not about times. You can choose routes from 6 to 24 km, such as the promenade loop around the Klopeiner See, the Gracarca heritage trail or the 3-lakes tour, plus a marathon. The warm-up programme includes guided tours on the Petzen and in the Karawanks. Start and finish is the K3 event centre in St. Kanzian.
6–11 September 2027 (one-off) · Warm-up programme 6–8 Sep 2027, Hiking World Championship 9–11 Sep 2027, opening on 9 Sep from 19:30 at the K3
At a glance
Warm-up programme 6–8 Sep 2027, main programme 9–11 Sep 2027
Start/finish: K3, Klopeiner Straße 5, St. Kanzian
Entry fee for the main programme from €3 (according to the 2027 announcement)
Registration with the ÖVV by 1 Sep 2027
Our tip
With the Aktiv Card you travel free by bus and train to the starting points.
Bring your own water bottle – the refreshment points only offer water.
Naturfreunde autumn hike up the Petzen24 km · 29 min by car26 OctoberOn Austria’s National Day, the Naturfreunde Petzen invite you to their traditional autumn hike up their local mountain.
On Austria’s National Day, the Naturfreunde Petzen invite you to their traditional autumn hike up their local mountain. Together you climb through the mountain forest in its autumn colours via Feistritz ob Bleiburg, and at the top you can enjoy the clear long-distance view over the Jauntal as far as the lakes. Taking part is free; if you ride part of the way on the cable car, you only pay for the lift ticket. Bring sturdy shoes, warm clothing and something to eat.
26 October (National Day) · Every year on 26 October, start 8:00
At a glance
Organiser: Naturfreunde Petzen
Start 8:00, around the Petzen valley station, Feistritz ob Bleiburg
Free to take part, lift costs if applicable
Our tip
You’ll find out the exact meeting point at short notice from the Naturfreunde Petzen or MeinBezirk Völkermarkt.
IRONMAN Kärnten-Klagenfurt40 km · 37 min by car13 June 2027Once a year Klagenfurt becomes a triathlon stage: around 3,000 athletes swim 3.8 km in the Wörthersee, cycle 180 km through Carinthia and finish with a marathon along the lake and into town.
Once a year Klagenfurt becomes a triathlon stage: around 3,000 athletes swim 3.8 km in the Wörthersee, cycle 180 km through Carinthia and finish with a marathon along the lake and into town. As a spectator you don’t need a ticket – the best spots are the swim start early in the morning at the Strandbad Klagenfurt, the run course at the Ostbucht and the finish in the evening. Bear in mind that roads are closed on race day.
Every year in mid-June; 2027: Sunday, 13 June
At a glance
3.8 km swim, 180 km bike, 42.2 km run
Next date: Sun, 13 June 2027 (start approx. 6:30)
Free to watch, 2027 starting places already sold out
Our tip
On race day, travel early or by train, as many roads around Klagenfurt and on the bike course are closed.
Kärnten läuft – Wörthersee Half Marathon40 km · 38 min by car27–29 Aug 2027Every year at the end of August the Wörthersee turns into a running course for a weekend: on Sunday the half marathon runs from the Schlosshotel Velden along the south-shore road to the Running City at the Metnitzstrand in Klagenfurt, while the quarter …
Every year at the end of August the Wörthersee turns into a running course for a weekend: on Sunday the half marathon runs from the Schlosshotel Velden along the south-shore road to the Running City at the Metnitzstrand in Klagenfurt, while the quarter marathon and the Wörthersee Walk start in Pörtschach. The Night Run kicks things off on Friday evening, and on Saturday there are children’s, family and even dog runs. In 2026 around 10,000 people took part. It is also well worth going along to watch, on the course or at the finish.
Every year at the end of August (Fri–Sun); 2027: 27–29 August
At a glance
Half marathon 21.1 km, start Sun 9:00 in Velden
Finish: Running City at the Metnitzstrand, Klagenfurt
Night Run (Fri), children’s, family and dog runs (Sat)
Next date: 27–29 August 2027
Our tip
Register via kaerntenlaeuft.at – the popular races are often fully booked early.
On Sunday some roads between Velden and Klagenfurt are closed at times, so plan your journey accordingly.
European Bike Week Faaker See71 km · 58 min by car7–12 Sep 2027Every year at the beginning of September, the Faaker See becomes a meeting point for motorbike fans from all over Europe for a week: hundreds of thousands of visitors come for rides, live music, traders’ stalls and motorbike shows, centred on the Arneitz …
Every year at the beginning of September, the Faaker See becomes a meeting point for motorbike fans from all over Europe for a week: hundreds of thousands of visitors come for rides, live music, traders’ stalls and motorbike shows, centred on the Arneitz grounds in Faak. The highlight is the big Harley parade on Saturday. If you like motorbikes, it is a real festival; if you are looking for peace and quiet at the Faaker See, better plan your trip for another time.
Every year in early September; 2027: 7–12 September
At a glance
Every year in the first week of September
Meeting point Arneitz, Seeufer-Landesstraße 53, Faak am See
Harley parade on Saturday, test rides on new models
Our tip
During Bike Week, expect heavy motorbike traffic and full car parks around Villach and the Faaker See.
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