The age-old customs around winter nights: "Glöcker parade" (Glöcklerlauf) in Obertraun
In the last night of Epiphany on 5th January
One more reason to extend your Christmas holiday: on 5th January, the Obertraun “Glöckler” (bell ringers) Run takes place in the Dachstein community. A real highlight!
Experience authentic customs live
The ancient customs surrounding the Epiphany with their secret magic have been a permanent feature of the winter months for decades. One of the most beautiful customs is the “Glöckler” Run, which also takes place in Obertraun on 5th January, the eve of the Feast of the Three Kings. Around 30 children and adults run through the darkened streets, nestled between the imposing mountain peaks and Lake Hallstatt, on the last night of Epiphany.
How it all began - The history of the “Glöckler” Run in Obertraun
It is unique that in Obertraun most of the crafts are done only with children. Silke and Bernd Dankelmayr have been leading the group, which has existed for over 50 years, since 1970. In contrast to "normal" years, very little time was spent on preparation for this year’s run. On the one hand, the caps were still in order from the last run, on the other hand, the Obertraun Glöckler (bell ringers) are currently "looking for a home". After the old primary schools, which served as a "handicraft room" and storage room in the past years, was converted into a residential building, the caps are currently stored in the basement and attic of the municipal office. The necessary repair work on the caps is also currently being done in the municipal office.
Through the night with colourful caps
The traditional shapes of the Obertraun bell-ringers' caps are the lanterns, five-pointed and seven-pointed caps. But also replicas of churches, nativity scenes and even birdhouses are worn as caps by bell-ringers in the Dachstein community! By the way, at the beginning of each group a comet "lights" the way for the other cap wearers!
In the bright light of the candles!
The purpose of the “Glöckler” Run is to gain salvation and blessings from the good spirits and to drive away the evil spirits with the muffled sound of the bells and the bright glow of the candles. They parade through the town in white robes, with caps weighing up to 20 kilograms and bells that are just as heavy.
Look forward to a unique event
The Obertraun Glöckler Run begins at 16:45 at the town square.
There the bell ringers make their circles and are accompanied by the Obertraun brass band. Afterwards, the bell-ringers, divided into different "passes" (groups), run through the dark night and wish the people and guests of the Dachstein community a Happy New Year. In various guesthouses and private houses the “Glöckler” are invited to rest and with warming tea and good snack provided.
Nehmen Sie sich also bei ihrem Urlaub am Hallstöttersee ein wenig Zeit für einen ungewöhnliches Brauchtumsspektakel, welches sie sich umgedingt anschauen sollten. Denn diese ganz besonderes Veranstaltung gibt es nur bei uns im Salzkammergut!
VIDEO
Glöckler parade in Obertraun on Lake Hallstatt
Simple and convenient
To this event with the Salzkammergut Shuttle Service
Would you like to attend this event? But don't have a car? Then take the "Salzkammergut Shuttle Service". The network of local taxi companies will take you to your desired event in a cost-effective and comfortable way. And this is how it works: Simply call the service hotline on +43 50 422 422 and pre-order correctly. You can make reservations in German and English. You will receive all further information directly at the time of booking or when booking the shuttle. Your hosts in the individual accommodations will also be happy to help you order the shuttle. Just ask. We wish you a safe journey and unforgettable hours at this event in the Salzkammergut.
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Booking in Obertraun on Lake Hallstatt - Book your winter holiday in the Salzkammergut now
Hotels and accommodation providers in Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, Gosau and Obertraun offer the ideal room or apartment for your holidays, no matter what your tastes. Aside from establishments rated according to the international "star" scale, you will also find around Lake Hallstatt in Austria businesses that have been awarded two to four "edelweiss". The more flowers, the greater comforts you can expect. Whether you eventually find your cozy nest in an elegant 5-star luxury hotel, at comfortable guesthouse, a family-friendly apartment, or on a traditional farm, the choice is always entirely up to you.