Ruhpolding Georgiritt
Traditional Horse Pilgrimage in the Chiemgau
About Georgiritt Ruhpolding
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A Horseback Pilgrimage Since the 16th Century
The Ruhpolding Georgiritt – known as "Irgn-Ritt" in the local dialect – is a traditional religious festival with origins dating back to the 16th century. Back then, farmers and horse owners sought the blessing of St. George, the patron saint of horses and riders, for their animals. This votive ride evolved into the vibrant horse pilgrimage that continues to this day.
Over 100 Horses in a Festive Procession
More than 100 horses and their owners from Ruhpolding and the surrounding area are expected – primarily draft horses and Haflingers, along with Pinzgauers and riding horses. The procession is accompanied by magnificently decorated floats. The carved figure of St. George from the Ruhpolding parish church is carried along in the procession.
Horse Blessing and Field Mass
The pilgrimage leads from the village center to St. Valentin's Church, where a field mass and the solemn horse blessing take place. Early morning cannon shots traditionally herald the start of the day. Throughout the day, music groups perform in the village – sometimes traditional Bavarian, sometimes modern – and food stalls and festivities give St. George's Day a folk festival character.
Location in the Chiemgau
Ruhpolding is located in the Traunstein district in Bavaria, nestled in the Chiemgau Alps. The village is considered a stronghold of living Bavarian traditions – the Georgiritt is one of its most visible testimonies and an attraction for visitors from the entire region.
For Whom?
- Friends of living Bavarian traditions and religious folk customs
- Horse and traditional costume enthusiasts
- Families and Chiemgau holidaymakers
Georgiritt Ruhpolding — edition 2026
On Sunday, September 6, 2026, Ruhpolding will once again celebrate Saint George. Early morning cannon shots will herald the start of St. George's Day. In the morning, the festive procession with over 100 horses – primarily draft horses and Haflingers, along with Pinzgauers and riding horses – and decorated floats will set off.
The pilgrimage leads from the village center to St. Valentin's Church, where a field mass and horse blessing will be celebrated. The carved figure of St. George from the parish church will be carried along in the procession. Throughout the day, music groups will perform in the village, accompanied by food and festivities.
Programme Georgiritt Ruhpolding 2026
Sunday, September 6, 2026
- Early Morning — Cannon shots to open St. George's Day
- Morning — Festive votive ride with over 100 horses (draft horses, Haflingers, Pinzgauers, riding horses) and decorated floats from the village center to St. Valentin's Church
- At St. Valentin's — Field mass and solemn horse blessing, carrying of the carved St. George figure
- All Day — Music groups in the village (traditional Bavarian to modern), food stalls, and festivities
Detailed times will be announced by the organizer (Wirtschaftsverband Ruhpolding).
Highlights Georgiritt Ruhpolding 2026
Prices Georgiritt Ruhpolding 2026
Practical information — Georgiritt Ruhpolding
Getting There
Ruhpolding village center, Hauptstraße, 83324 Ruhpolding. Ruhpolding is accessible via the A8 motorway (exit Siegsdorf) and the B306 road, as well as by train (Ruhpolding station, line from Traunstein).
Admission
Admission to the Georgiritt is free. The Georgiverein (St. George's Association) welcomes financial support through the purchase of festival badges (most recently €3 each).
Tip
Arriving early is worthwhile: The day traditionally begins with cannon shots in the early morning, and the ride for the horse blessing takes place in the morning.
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Travel to this festival
Reserva tu tren o autobús para llegar a Georgiritt Ruhpolding al mejor precio.
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Where it takes place Georgiritt Ruhpolding
Ortsmitte Ruhpolding / Pfarrkirche St. Valentin
Hauptstraße, 83324 Ruhpolding