Anyone strolling around Vienna’s Hofburg Palace this weekend will rub their eyes in amazement. Where countless people usually snap photos of the imperial splendor, tractors are suddenly chugging along and the air is filled with the scent of fresh farmhouse bread. The ernte.dank.festival in the heart of Vienna will bring Austrian agriculture right into the heart of the capital on September 12 and 13, 2026.
On these two days, Vienna’s Heldenplatz will be transformed into a massive festival grounds where you can experience rural culture up close. We spoke with the organizers in advance and can assure you: This year’s selection of regional specialties is more diverse than ever before.
From chainsaw shows to traditional folk fashion
A real highlight is the packed supporting program offered on both days. When we took a look at the program details, the large agricultural machinery show on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. particularly caught our eye. Those who prefer a bit more action, however, should definitely not miss the chainsaw carving artists or the exciting demonstrations by the forestry competitors.
There will also be plenty of musical entertainment on the square. On Saturday evening, for example, the Poxrucker Sisters will get the crowd going on the festival stage starting at 8:15 p.m. with their dialect pop, before the venue closes at 10:00 p.m. On Sunday, things will continue at a more leisurely pace starting at 10:00 a.m. with traditional brass band music and a hearty morning beer.
Organic delicacies and the laid-back charm of the Weinviertel
What would an agricultural festival be without really good food from the federal states? By the way: If you want to stay up to date on exciting places, news, and activities in and around Vienna, feel free to follow us on Instagram or Facebook! In any case, a huge farmers’ market with hundreds of exhibitors from all over Austria awaits you at Heldenplatz.
We especially recommend the Weinviertel Winegrowers’ Village, which has its own dedicated area. Here, over a fine glass of wine and pastries from authentic artisan bakeries, you can experience the region’s much-talked-about, delightful serenity right in Vienna. But lovers of fresh quark, cheese, and organic juices will also find plenty to enjoy at the many wooden stalls.
🌾Event: ernte.dank.festival (Harvest Festival)
📍Heldenplatz, 1010 Vienna
📅September 12 & 13, 2026
⏰Sat. 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. | Sun. 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
💸Free
