Thanksgiving

What's it about?

Experience a festively decorated parish church, the atmospheric Thanksgiving procession with the Trachtenkapelle Spitz (traditional costume band) and the harvest crown, the solemn Thanksgiving mass in the parish church of St. Mauritius, the traditional crown dance by the Spitz folk dance group, and fresh Sturm (partially fermented grape must) directly from the wooden barrel. On the first Sunday in October, Spitz an der Donau traditionally celebrates its great Thanksgiving – this year on October 4, 2026. In the days leading up to it, many diligent hands transform the Spitz church into a true sea of blossoms: every altar is artfully decorated, the pulpit, choir, and numerous niches shine in festive splendor. The procession begins at the old town hall and is musically accompanied by the Trachtenkapelle Spitz. Members of the Hauerschaft (winegrowers' guild) carry richly decorated guild signs and flags, the Weingartengeiß (vineyard goat), a large grape, and the statue of Saint Urbanus. Young female winegrowers present the artfully designed harvest crown, the folk dance group brings the vine leaf arches decorated for the crown dance, and many children proudly carry their harvest baskets. Numerous residents of Spitz dress in festive traditional costumes, thus showing their connection to home and tradition. After the festive mass, visitors can expect a colorful program on the church square: The folk dance group performs several dances, the highlight of which, as every year, is the atmospheric crown dance. Meanwhile, the Trachtenkapelle provides music during the Frühschoppen (morning pint), and the winegrowers serve the first Sturm of the year - accompanied by fresh bread. Date & Event Details October 4, 2026 Start: 10:00 AM Location: Kirchenplatz & Marktstraße, Spitz an der Donau Subject to change!

Where?

Altes Rathaus Spitz

Organiser: Altes Rathaus Spitz