HELLO SPRING! SPRING HIGHLIGHTS OF THE VILLACH REGION
Villach is known for its great events throughout the year, which make the city an attractive destination in almost every season. And since the first flowers have already announced the beginning of spring, it’s a great time to get active and enjoy what the region of Villach has to offer during the most colorful time of the year.
Here we have created a list of event and activity highlights for you that definitely shouldn't be missed this spring!
TAKE A STROLL AROUND THE EASTER MARKET(S)
If you take a walk through Villach’s downtown you’ll discover brightly colored spring decorations at every corner. Many people will be celebrating Easter soon, so it’s definitely a great time to immerse yourself in this year's charming Easter Market, which is taking place from April 7-16 in Villach’s city center.
From farm-fresh produce to handmade crafts, the Easter Market offers something for every taste. While adults can enjoy the regional cuisine, children are welcome on the Hauptplatz (City Hall Square) where a kid-sized railway awaits little visitors for fun rides - and all ages can savor the delicious Easter treats! Also, for our little hunters, the weekly market’s Easter Egg Bashing Tournament (April 13th) at Burgplatz is back this year. Sounds fun, doesn’t it?!
In addition to the main Easter Market, the city offers visitors other alternatives such as the Spring and Easter Market in Bodensdorf and the Easter Market in Landskron. Whatever your choice is, don’t forget to buy a Reindling, Carinthia’s famous Easter treat - it should have a special place in everyone’s Easter basket every year!
STAND-UP PADDLE BOARD ENTHUSIASTS WELCOME!
The SUP ALPS TROPHY will be coming to Faaker See for the first time on May 20-22, 2022. Be part of THE LAKE ROCKS paddling festival which is open to everyone: professionals, amateurs, and a special category for kids. Enjoy live music and have fun at the all-ages/all-abilities SUP race on the lake. Registration for the event is free (with the exception of the PRO race). Find the registration forms for the three races - PRO, FUN, and TECH - here.
WHAT ABOUT FOOD LOVERS?
If you are new to Alps-Adriatic cuisine, then you probably don't know that the influence of three cultures (Austria, Italy, Slovenia) has shaped Carinthian cuisine for centuries. This year's KÜCHENKULT spring festival takes us on a journey of childhood memories filled with traditional flavors and lots of love. As the most famous culinary event in the region, KÜCHENKULT is not to be missed! Take a look at what the participating chefs have to offer in the 12 delicious events on three weekends in May and reserve your seat soon - spots are limited!
TIME TO GET ACTIVE
After having taken place at Ossiacher See for the past 10 years, Tour de Kärnten is coming to Faaker See this year with lots of new trails and with Finkenstein am Faaker See as its new venue. Over six days, May 21-26, 2022, the tour is open to everyone that wants to swap city streets for mountain roads and enjoy Carinthia’s glorious scenery, no matter your level of cycling expertise.
ENJOY FAAK’S MOST POPULAR FARMER’S MARKET
The farmer's market, or as the locals say, "Faaker Bauernmarkt", is one of the most popular summer markets in the Villach region, and takes place in Faak am See. The Faaker Bauernmarkt has become the place to meet up and enjoy local specialities, and takes place every Thursday evening from May to September.
VILLACH IN A COLORFUL SEA OF FLOWERS
Spring is without a doubt the season of flowers, and thus the perfect time to finally welcome the flower market to Villach on April 27-28. Visit the local gardeners, florists, and tree nurseries at Hauptplatz to find out more about current gardening trends and enjoy a diverse sortiment of flowers, vegetable plants, and decorative garden accessories. Gardening expert Martina Kircher will guide guests through this colorful event.
ARTS AND CRAFTS IN SPRINGLIKE WARMBAD
Talented artists and artisans will come together on May 14-15, 2022, to showcase their creations at the Warmbader Handwerksmarkt in Warmbad. A wide range of crafts will be displayed to visitors who are interested in materials such as wood, metal, glass, wool, ceramics, and more. Besides the artistic collections, visitors can delight in the enchanting spring scenery across Warmbad and experience a fun family day with a children's program and local delights.
OSSIACHER SEE BY BIKE
Join in this fun biking event taking place on May 15th, when the entire route around Lake Ossiach is Car-Free for the day! Grab your bike, skateboard, or roller skates to ride along the 27 km one-way route, and be sure to take a few relaxing breaks at local restaurants and to enjoy the entertainment and music around the lake. This event promises sporty fun for the whole family!
40th INTERNATIONAL CONVERTIBLE ENTHUSIASTS GATHERING
Last but not least, the Convertible Festival is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. The classic car community will come together from June 2-6, 2022, at the Arneitz campsite in Egg am Faaker See. Both participants and spectators can enjoy the delightful parade of dozens of colorful vintage cars. Find the registration form here.
