FASCHING IN VILLACH - THE CARNIVAL CELEBRATION YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS
Colorful confetti flies through the air, people in funny costumes fill the streets, and all of Villach is in a cheerful party mood – it must be Faschingl! Fasching is a festive season where the cold winter days are brought to life with humor and a joyful atmosphere. In Villach, Fasching is even called the "fifth season" and is considered one of the seasonal highlights of the region. An event not to be missed!
WHAT IS FASCHING?
Fasching is Austria’s version of Carnival and is associated with Catholic traditions. Many cities hold parades, Fasching balls, and "foolish" events like comedy shows to celebrate Fasching. The word "Fasching" derives from "fasting" and marks the week before the 40-day Lent leading up to Easter. In Austria, Fasching is a time of indulgence and fun, celebrated with sweets, alcohol, and festivities before the fasting period officially begins.
Historically, the "fools" were celebrated during Fasching, offering the common people a platform in the Middle Ages to speak against their rulers. To symbolize this, citizens formed a mock government of 11 people, as the number 11 was considered the "fools' number." During Fasching, these mock governments held satirical performances, allowing citizens to express their opinions freely about their rulers. To ensure they were not punished, people wore costumes to conceal their identities. This tradition continues today with costumes and a mock government—the so-called Faschingsgilde (Carnival Guild), which organizes the events.
WHEN IS FASCHING?
Fasching starts every year on November 11th at precisely 11:11 a.m. and ends on Carnival Tuesday at midnight. The exact dates vary annually, as Fasching aligns with important religious days, such as Easter. While the Fasching season begins in November, the major celebrations traditionally take place during the week before Ash Wednesday. In 2025, Carnival Saturday falls on March 1st.
HOW FASCHING IS CELEBRATED IN VILLACH
In 2025, Villach will celebrate the 70th anniversary of its Fasching in the city on the Drau River! A testament to the importance of this festival is the bronze sculpture of a fool near the Drau, symbolizing Fasching. Here are some of the key highlights that the Villach Fasching has to offer:
Fasching – A Time of Indulgence
Fasching is a time of indulgence before Lent begins. Traditionally, so-called “Krapfen” – doughnuts filled with apricot jam – are sold in shops. Herring salad and alcoholic beverages, like schnapps and beer, are also staples of the celebrations. Indulge in these culinary delights – they are simply part of the Fasching tradition!
"Lei Lei!" – The Fasching Shout in Villach
Almost every major city has its own Fasching shout, and in Villach, it is proudly "Lei Lei!" This shout is meaningless, but that’s precisely the point of a fool’s shout. Other examples in Austria include "Bla Bla" from Klagenfurt or "Miau Miau" from Felixdorf. "Lei Lei" roughly translates to "just, just" and is a big part of Villach’s Fasching identity.
The Kickoff: The Royal Couple Presentation
The very first highlight of Fasching in many places is the so-called "fools’ awakening" on November 11th of the year, traditionally celebrated at 11:11 a.m. with the presentation of the Royal Couple. This reveals the closely guarded secret of the new Royal Couples for the upcoming Fasching season. In Villach, the presentation takes place as part of a colorful program, offering an early taste of the upcoming Faschingl. To allow as many guests as possible to attend, the event is now traditionally held on the Saturday around November 11th. It’s a festive moment accompanied by music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere. The Royal Couple represents the city of Villach throughout the entire Fasching season, leading the foolish festivities, which bring the city streets to life with parades, balls, and numerous events. Since 1967, a children's Royal Couple has also been crowned annually. The Royal Couple presentation for the 2024/2025 season will take place on Saturday, November 9th, at Nikolaiplatz.
Villach Fasching-Comedy-Shows
A must for all comedy fans are the traditional Fasching shows (“Faschingssitzungen”) at the Congress Center Villach. This humorous revue of sketches and performances is very popular, and tickets sell out quickly. Those who don’t get tickets can watch the show live on ORF or catch up in the Villacher Fasching-Archiv.
The Highlight: Carnival Saturday
Carnival Saturday is the peak of the festive season. On this day, Villach’s city center transforms into a massive party zone with tents, stages, dance floors, and food stands. On Carnival Saturday, it’s a must to come dressed up – the more creative, the better! Don’t miss the grand Fasching parade, perfect for the whole family. Thousands of people gather to watch colorful floats and costumed groups parade through the main street and cheer them on.
Villach’s Fasching is far more than just a local tradition – it’s a vibrant spectacle full of fun, music, and high spirits. Whether it’s indulging in doughnuts, cheering at the Royal Couple presentation, or partying on Carnival Saturday – Fasching in Villach is celebrated in an unforgettable way. Join in and experience the unique charm of this festive season!