On Saturday, September 12, 2026, the loud ringing of large cowbells will echo across the Styrian slopes of the Hochwechsel. The traditional cattle drive marks the end of this year’s alpine summer there.
If the summer has passed without any accidents for the herds, the animals are elaborately decorated before they make their way down into the valley. They’ve spent months on the high-altitude pastures, so they’re now looking forward to returning to their home stables.
From the hut to the festival grounds
The day begins at 12:00 p.m. at the Kaltwiesenhütte. There, the cattle are given their first festive decorations, because the procession down into the valley is meant to be a real visual spectacle.
Afterward, the farmers drive the herd to the Ehrenhöfer Ludwig alpine pasture, with the so-called “Kranzkuh” (crowned cow)—adorned with a protective symbol made of twigs and mirrors —leading the procession. On this day, the herders don their traditional Styrian costumes, if they aren’t already wearing them.
Once the animals arrive at the festival grounds, they are given their final hand-woven crowns. This expresses gratitude for a safe season, as alpine farming places significant demands on the animals.
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Tradition and Styrian Coziness
As soon as the official ceremony begins at 2:00 p.m. at the Mönichwalder Schwaig, local folk groups take over the program. While lively folk music plays on stage, you can enjoy tasty Styrian specialties on site.
The hut is located at exactly 1,200 meters above sea level, so be prepared for fresh mountain air. Since the expansive grounds are very well connected via the Schmiedviertel district in Waldbach-Mönichwald, you can even reach the festival grounds easily by car or tour bus.
In addition, the Catholic Rural Youth, the Farmers’ Association, and the Mönichwald Pasture Community ensure that everything runs smoothly. Consequently, this autumnal event takes place in complete safety for both the farmers and all the guests watching. After all, this popular event is an important part of Alpine tradition that everyone should experience in person at least once.
