Culture and tradition in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region
Too beautiful not to be there
In the Thermen- & Vulkanland region, traditions are not just preserved, they’re celebrated. Culture, customs, and nature blend seamlessly amid rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and soothing thermal spas. Throughout the year, the region in south-eastern Styria offers a vibrant calendar of festivals, age-old customs, and seasonal events – from the lively awakening of spring to the peaceful charm of the Advent season.
On this page, you’ll discover:
- where to experience the rich culture of the Thermen- & Vulkanland region
- how local customs are brought to life throughout the year
- why the Advent season is especially magical
- and how culture and relaxation go hand in hand in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region
Culture in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region
An experience in itself
The Thermen- & Vulkanland region invites you to discover the rich diversity of its cultural landscape – from majestic castles and authentic historical sites to creative, contemporary interpretations of age-old traditions.
Experiences along the venerable Castle Road
The Castle Road in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region leads you through a varied tapestry of impressive castles, stately palaces, and captivating museums, including:
- Riegersburg Castle, perched dramatically on an extinct volcano
- Kornberg Castle in Riegersburg, known for its popular markets
- Pfeilburg Museum in Fürstenfeld, integrated into the town’s medieval city wall
- Welsdorf Castle, featuring a tranquil park at its heart
- Obermayerhofen Castle, a romantic setting and sought-after wedding venue
- Kapfenstein Castle, surrounded by vineyards typical of the region
- Museum im Tabor in Feldbach, home to a wide range of fascinating exhibits
Complementing these cultural landmarks are concerts, readings, and the historic charm of towns like Bad Radkersburg and Bad Gleichenberg.
Small historic towns in Styria
What do Bad Radkersburg and Fürstenfeld have in common? Their romantic alleyways, baroque façades, charming squares, and centuries-old city walls all reflect the rich history of the Thermen- & Vulkanland region. With lively town centres, cultural events, and unforgettable moments of culinary indulgence, they offer experiences you’ll want to savour for longer.
Museums and exhibitions worth seeing
From regional history and traditional craftsmanship to contemporary themes: The museums and cultural centres of the Thermen- & Vulkanland region offer fascinating insights. They open windows into the past while also providing fresh perspectives on the present.
Authentic Styrian arts and crafts
Pottery, glassmaking, tailoring, blacksmithing: In the Thermen- & Vulkanland region, traditional craftsmanship is alive and thriving. Many local workshops open their doors to visitors, showcasing how regional customs are not only preserved but also creatively reinterpreted for today.
Customs in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region
Keeping tradition alive
In the Thermen- & Vulkanland region, traditions are alive and well, celebrated throughout the year at events where you can experience the regional customs first-hand. Music is at the heart of many of these festivities, creating a vibrant atmosphere. From brass bands to classical ensembles and modern sounds, there’s something for every musical taste.
No matter the season – spring, summer, autumn, or winter – the event calendar in south-eastern Styria is full of colourful, authentic experiences:
- Spring: traditional Easter rituals like palm branch binding, Easter snacks, festive exhibitions, and the raising of the maypole
- Summer: solstice fires, village fairs, open-air brass band concerts, and culinary festivals in vineyards and towns
- Autumn: harvest celebrations and wine festivals with seasonal treats such as “Sturm” and roasted chestnuts
- Winter: Christmas markets featuring traditional craftsmanship and atmospheric nativity scene exhibitions
Our tip: These events are the perfect occasion to wear traditional Austrian costume. Dirndls, lederhosen, and other regional garments are timeless symbols of home, heritage, and belonging.
Culinary customs of the region
Whether at Easter, during wine season, at harvest time, or throughout the Advent period: Food is always at the heart of celebrations in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region. Many festivals bring together culinary delights, live music, and cherished traditions to create atmospheric experiences that reflect the region’s unique character.
Advent season in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region
As the year winds down and calm settles over the landscape, the Thermen- & Vulkanland region reveals its romantic, contemplative side.
At charming Advent markets in castles and historic towns, the scent of mulled wine and punch fills the air as you wander from booth to booth, soaking in the festive atmosphere. Highlights include the magical settings of Kornberg Castle and Burgau Castle, as well as the town centres of Feldbach, Bad Radkersburg, and Mureck. A special highlight is “Advent wias früher woa” (“Advent as it used to be”) in Bad Gleichenberg – an event that brings tradition and nostalgia beautifully to life.
Relaxation & culture in south-eastern Styria
A harmonious combo
The Thermen- & Vulkanland region offers the ideal setting to combine cultural discovery with deep relaxation. Whether you’re unwinding in a thermal spa after a day of exploring castles, museums, and regional traditions, or enriching your spa getaway with a cultural outing: The region invites you to enjoy both sides of Styria.
