New Dachstein royalty crowned: Many highlights at the 37th Spring Festival of Horses

Ramsau am Dachstein experienced several highlights last weekend. At the 37th annual "Spring Festival of Horses," three young women, Lena Bachler, Celina Oberreiter, and Johanna Kahr, were officially presented as the new "Dachstein Queens." For the next year, they will represent the Schladming-Dachstein tourism region at numerous events. In addition, two important regional institutions celebrated special anniversaries.

"Year after year, the Spring Festival of Horses impressively demonstrates what makes our region so special: living traditions, strong clubs and associations, and people who cultivate their heritage with great passion. With the new Dachstein Queens, we also have three charming ambassadors who will authentically convey the diversity and joie de vivre of our region. My special thanks go to all the volunteers, clubs, and organizers who make this unique festival possible," emphasized Franz Eisl, Deputy Chairman of the Schladming-Dachstein Tourism Association.

Besides the coronation of the new royalty, the festival weekend on June 13th and 14th offered two reasons to celebrate: Both the Ramsau am Dachstein traditional music band and the Schladming-Ramsau horse breeding association celebrated their 100th anniversaries. Both associations have been cornerstones of the festival for decades – their joint anniversary lent this year's program a very special atmosphere. Traditional dance groups, Schuhplattler dancers, and musical performances also ensured a lively atmosphere in the festival tent.

A unique parade with over 200 horses:

The grand finale was once again the large parade on Sunday. More than 200 horses of various breeds pulled magnificently decorated floats with lovingly crafted floral figures – accompanied by traditional costume, music, and whip-cracking groups from the entire region. This unique, non-motorized flower parade transforms the "most horse-friendly municipality in Austria" into the center of a vibrant traditional festival every year.

All net proceeds from the festival will benefit the Ramsau am Dachstein mountain rescue service and social projects. All information about the Spring Festival of Horses can be found online at www.schladming-dachstein.at/fruehlingsfest .