TECHNOLOGY PARK VILLACH CELEBRATES KIRCHTAG
Once again this year, employees, partners and guests of Technology Park Villach came together to celebrate the Villacher Kirchtag, Austria's largest traditional folk festival. With authentic Kirchtag soup, live music and plenty of opportunities for personal exchange, the event centred on what matters most: enjoying time together in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
On 30 July 2026, Technology Park Villach hosted its annual Kirchtag celebration at the High Tech Campus Villach. Under the motto "Technology Meets Tradition," the event showcased how regional customs and a modern innovation hub can come together in perfect harmony.
A KIRCHTAG THAT BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER
This year's celebration once again featured the Bauerngman Villach, whose traditional Kirchtagsladen brought the authentic spirit of the Villacher Kirchtag to the campus. With music, dancing and the ceremonial Tusch fanfare, guests were officially invited to the Villacher Kirchtag. The Trachtenkapelle Drobollach provided lively musical entertainment throughout the afternoon, creating the unmistakable atmosphere of the Kirchtag.
The culinary highlights were equally true to tradition. Guests enjoyed the classic Villacher Kirchtag soup served with freshly baked Reindling, accompanied by refreshing drinks. Employees from companies across the campus took the opportunity to connect, exchange ideas and celebrate Kirchtag week together in a relaxed and informal setting.
"Technology is created by people. That's why it's important to us not only to work together, but also to celebrate together. Under the motto 'Technology Meets Tradition,' we invite people from many countries and cultures to experience a piece of Carinthian tradition. That spirit of togetherness is what defines our technology park."
– Managing Director Bernhard Lamprecht
The strong sense of community that has developed over the years is also reflected in the story of Christian Fitzek from the Villach District Office of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO). This year marked his 25th Kirchtag celebration at Technology Park Villach. His story reflects just how much the event has grown – from a gathering of around 50 people in its early years to this year's record attendance of around 700 guests.
A particular highlight was the attendance of numerous distinguished guests, including First Vice Mayor Sarah Katholnig and Second Vice Mayor Gerda Sandriesser, who also serves as Chairwoman of the Villacher Kirchtag Association. Together with representatives from business, research and education, they contributed to the festive atmosphere and the success of the event.
WORKING TOGETHER TO MAKE THE CELEBRATION A SUCCESS
The Kirchtag celebration at Technology Park Villach thrives on collaboration and the commitment of many valued partners. Our sincere thanks go to our partners and sponsors – WKO Villach, the City of Villach, Silicon Austria Labs, Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, the build! Founder Center, GPS, High Tech Campus Villach, KAI and comprei – whose generous support played a vital role in making the event possible.
Special thanks also go to Sandro Kanzi and his team for their outstanding catering and their excellent Kirchtag soup, prepared according to his grandmother's traditional recipe; to the twelve musicians of the Trachtenkapelle Drobollach for providing the musical entertainment; and to the members of Bauerngman Villach for bringing the authentic Kirchtag traditions to life.
This year's Kirchtag celebration once again highlighted Technology Park Villach's commitment to regional traditions, strong partnerships and a vibrant community. We thank everyone who helped make the event such a success and all those who joined us, and we look forward to celebrating Kirchtag together again next year.