Tyrolean traditions in action

Legendary figures and ancient creatures come together in a centuries-old rendezvous. The fifth season has begun in the Hall-Wattens region. A centuries-old tradition. By the end of November at the latest, preparations are in full swing. Feathers must be arranged into lavish headdresses, and costumes inspected and mended. From mid-January onwards, the hand-carved masks – some of which are several centuries old – are brought out – but under no circumstances any earlier. “Nativity scenes and masks don’t mix”, as the old saying goes. The volunteer fire brigade also lends a hand. They treat the costumes with special agents to minimise the risk of fire.

... and ushering in a bountiful spring is the primary aim of this centuries-old tradition! Since the 1970s, the villages of Rum, Thaur, Absam and Mils have taken turns organising the event. It is not just any carnival event; it is a centuries-old tradition that is still practised in the Hall-Wattens region. The word “Matschgern” is the dialect form of “masquerade” – in other words, the wearing of masks in the Tyrolean way. As effortless as the performances by the carnival characters may seem to the audience, it is an art in itself to make the acts appear spontaneous rather than rehearsed. During rehearsals in the run-up to the event, the characters practise their movement patterns. But see for yourselves!

On Sunday 16 February 2020, the Matschgerer parade in Mils delighted thousands of enthusiastic onlookers. The history of the Mils Matschgerer goes back over 200 years. Here is an extract from their chronicle:

“Probably the best evidence of the lively carnival celebrations in Mils throughout the ages is the Old Mils Bear. The pride of the people of Mils is also known as the ‘ox skull’ because of the shape of its head. It was certainly carved more than 200 years ago. Today, the head is only worn on special occasions. By 1930, the people of Mils already had a sizeable troupe, considering the modest resources of the time."

Here is a photograph taken in front of the Tiefenthaler inn in Unterdorf from the 1930s:>

Witches, Klötzler, Zottler, Tschaggeler, Weiße, Altboarische and Atlboarische Tuxer, Hiatler, Spiegeltuxer and Bujaz are among the characters in the Mils Carnival. Each has its own role. The witch mourns the passing of winter and cannot believe that it is already over. The Hiatler embodies a very young, lively and very cheerful person. The Spiegeltuxer takes centre stage at the Mils Carnival. You can find more details and photos of the wide variety of characters on the Milser Matschgerer website!

With their impressive choreography and magnificent costumes, the characters of the ‘fifth season’ depict spring’s battle against winter. Naturally, the symbol of fertility and good luck – the tap on the shoulder with a shot of schnapps – is highly sought after by many!

Have we sparked your curiosity about the carnival festivities, the traditions and the characters? Secure your place at the regional parade in Mils on Sunday, 16 February 2020 – starting at 1.30 pm! Tickets are available in advance from the post office, the town hall and the Raika branch in Mils, as well as at the Milsano restaurant. This way, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket offices and comfortably secure the best spot with a view of the parade. The parade starts in Oberdorf, just above the St Josef Social Centre, and proceeds to the village centre by the church.