Viehscheid Oberstaufen

Alpine Drive in the West Allgäu

The Viehscheid Oberstaufen marks the end of summer in the Allgäu Alps. Every September, around 1000 head of cattle are led from the high pastures down the paths into the valley to Oberstaufen, where they are returned to their owners in a festive ceremony. The 2026 edition is the 52nd iteration of the modern Viehscheid, which has its roots in centuries-old alpine farming traditions.

Höfen Scheidplatz

The venue is the Höfen Scheidplatz on the edge of Oberstaufen town center. As early as the morning hours – from around 8:30 AM – the first herds are expected. Accompanied by shepherds and herding dogs, the 'Kranzkühe' (cows wearing wreaths), adorned with floral and fir wreaths, pass through a dense crowd of spectators to the square. Wearing a wreath and bell symbolizes that the alpine season has passed without incident.

Bell Raffle and Festival Tent

At 2:00 PM, the bell raffle begins – a traditional custom where the heavy alpine bells ('Schellen') are redistributed through a lottery. In the evening, the festival continues in the marquee with dancing, music bands, Allgäu specialties such as Käsknöpfle, Kasspatzen, and Allgäuer Bergkäse, as well as plenty of beer.

Oberstaufen – Schroth Health Resort and Alpine Tradition Town

Oberstaufen is a well-known premium Schroth spa town and the only Schroth health resort in Germany, located in the western Allgäu in the Oberallgäu district (Bavaria). With its Allgäuer Hochalpen, the Nagelfluhkette Nature Park, and the mountain village of Steibis, it stands for gentle tourism, rich traditions, and alpine lifestyle. The Viehscheid is one of the most important dates of the year here – not just a folk festival, but also a source of identity for the approximately 1000 shepherds, alpine farmers, and herdsmen who work in the Alps every summer.

Tradition with Current Significance

Alpine farming has been an economic and ecological pillar in the Allgäu for centuries. It keeps the mountain meadows open, ensures biodiversity, and allows animals to spend the summer in the Alps. The Viehscheid celebrates this model and makes it tangible for thousands of guests from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland – as a mix of tradition, agricultural pride, and festive community.