Zirler Kirtag: Zachäus Singing and Festive Service

What's it about?

In 2015, the custom of "Zachäus-Singen" was included in the UNESCO directory of intangible cultural heritage in Austria. According to old tradition, the Kirtag (traditional fair) in Zirl is ushered in in an extraordinary way: as early as 4:30 AM, the church bells ring and at 5:00 AM, the "Zachäus melody" sounds from the church tower. The brass players and singers perform the old songs twice more, at the church fountain and in the village square. There, the contemplative part culminates in joyful dancing.