As January unfolds, the echoes of 2025’s vibrant events in the Völkermarkt district still resonate. But looking forward, 2026 promises an equally compelling calendar, brimming with music, tradition, culinary delights, and entertainment. This overview highlights some of the key events shaping the region’s cultural landscape.
Carnival Celebrations: A Burst of Color and Joy
Carnival season is in full swing across the Völkermarkt district. Parades and traditional Carnival gatherings are a must-see, culminating in the Völkermarkt Carnival parade on February 17th, starting at 12:00 PM from the Chamber of Commerce, officially commencing at 1:30 PM. A children’s Carnival event follows at the New Castle at 2:00 PM. Neighboring towns like Eberndorf/Dobrla vas and Griffen also host parades on the same day, while Haimburg’s parade begins on February 15th at 1:00 PM, and Kühnsdorf’s at 1:13 PM on February 15th.
Pro Tip: Carnival events are a fantastic way to experience local culture. Check local event listings for smaller, community-based celebrations often missed by larger guides.
Klopeiner See: A Stage for Spectacle
The Klopeiner See, the region’s largest natural lake, is set to become a focal point for entertainment. The Multimedia Show at Strandbad Camping Nord, themed “The Power of Passion,” will run from May 21st through September on Thursdays and Sundays, offering a free spectacle of water, light, and sound. Weather permitting, of course. Before the show, from June 11th, visitors can enjoy the “PromenadenZauber” along the northern promenade, featuring various attractions every Thursday, also free of charge.
The Multimedia Show at Strandbad Camping Nord
© KLZ / Bettina Friedl
The annual “See in Flames” event on July 9th and 10th will feature a grand fireworks display on July 10th at 11:00 PM, preceded by a children’s program and music. The season culminates with the Genuss-Seefest on September 12th, celebrating local delicacies with Had’n, wine, and salami.
Family Fun and Sports at Turnersee
The Turnersee will host the “Familien-Seefest” (Family Lake Festival) from May 23rd to 25th, offering a diverse program for families, including adventures at the WaldErlebniswelt (Forest Experience World) and Vogelpark (Bird Park). A shuttle bus will connect visitors to these attractions. The “Sport-Festival” on June 5th and 6th will allow visitors to try various sports, requiring participants to bring their own bikes, helmets, and appropriate footwear.
“Sport-Festival” at Turnersee
© Stefan Müller
Völkermarkt City Festival: Revitalizing the City Center
The Völkermarkt City Festival, starting May 29th, promises three days of music, gastronomy, and community spirit. Shops will offer special promotions, and the festival will feature musical performances, regional cuisine, and a grand raffle.
The City Festival in Völkermarkt
© Helmuth Weichselbraun
50 Years of Eberndorf Summer Games
2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the Südkärntner Sommerspiele Eberndorf (Eberndorf South Carinthian Summer Games). The main production, “The Day the Pope Was Kidnapped,” premieres on July 9th. Other performances include “All the Beautiful Things” on July 29th, and a staged reading of “The Wolves’ Robbers” on July 24th, with a performance featuring a sign language interpreter. Tickets are available from May 1st.
“The Day the Pope Was Kidnapped” will be performed for the 50th anniversary of the Summer Games
© Lex Karelly/KK
Acoustic Vibes and a Milestone at Sonnegger See
The Acoustic Lakeside Music Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary from July 16th to 18th. Confirmed artists include Betterov, Cari Cari, Jo The Man The Music, and Laurenz Nikolaus, with British indie-rock band Babyshambles headlining. Tickets go on sale January 23rd.
The “Acoustic Lakeside Festival” celebrates 20 years
© Markus Traussnig
Mountain Adventures at Petzen
The “Fuzzstock” festival on the Petzen mountain, from August 27th to 30th, promises music, stunning views, and a unique atmosphere. The lineup for 2026 is yet to be announced, but the festival is known for attracting diverse musical acts. Tickets are available online.
“Fuzzstock” takes place on the Petzen
© Gerfried Ambrosch
Jauntal Highlights: Tradition and Flavor
The Jauntal region offers the Salamifest in Eberndorf on August 2nd, celebrating the region’s famous salami with a market, culinary delights, and music. The Jauntaler Had’nfest in Neuhaus on September 19th and 20th showcases the local Had’n (a type of pork product) with various dishes and festivities. The “Farant-Fest” in Globasnitz/Globasnica on August 15th celebrates the end of the workweek with local products and traditions.
The Salamifest in Eberndorf
© Rosina Katz-logar
Bleiburg Wiesenmarkt: A Long-Standing Tradition
The Bleiburg Wiesenmarkt, taking place from September 4th to 7th, is a traditional fair with over 630 years of history. It features rides, food stalls, a farmers’ market, and musical performances, attracting over 131,000 visitors last year.
The Bleiburg Wiesenmarkt takes place for the 633rd time
© Peter Rass
Alpe Adria Repica Fest: A Culinary Journey
The “Alpe-Adria Repica Fest” on October 4th in St. Michael ob Bleiburg/Šmihel nad Pliberkom celebrates regional cuisine, particularly Repica (potatoes), with various dishes, local products, and musical entertainment.
Many exhibitors are expected at the “Repica Fest”
© Rosina Katz-Logar
FAQ
- Where can I find more detailed information about specific events? Visit the official websites linked in the article or check local tourism information centers.
- Are these events family-friendly? Many events offer activities for children and families. Check event details for specific information.
- Is accommodation readily available in the Völkermarkt district? Yes, but booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
- What is “Had’n”? Had’n is a traditional pork dish from the Jauntal region, often served with sauerkraut and dumplings.
Did you know? The Bleiburg Wiesenmarkt has been held annually for over six centuries, making it one of the oldest fairs in Austria.
Share your experiences! What events are you most looking forward to in the Völkermarkt district? Leave a comment below and let us know!
