Solstice Fires in Saalfelden Leogang

On June 21, 2025, the mountains surrounding the Saalfelden Basin and the Leoganger Steinberge will once again glow with the light of countless solstice fires. The centuries-old tradition of fire-lighting is celebrated in Saalfelden Leogang with special events. Whether at the atmospheric Solstice Festival at Ritzensee or high up on the Asitz mountain with a breathtaking 360° panoramic view – visitors can expect a truly unique natural spectacle. Culinary delights and live music ensure a festive atmosphere.

 

Fire that connects
Fire has always symbolized transformation, purification, and protection. It provides warmth, light, and the chance to let go of the old to make space for the new. At the summer solstice, this powerful element is celebrated in a particularly spectacular way in Saalfelden Leogang. Members of local organizations – including the Alpine Club, Mountain Rescue, Fire Brigade, and the Nature Friends – create elaborate fire images along the mountain ridges. From the valley, glowing outlines of the mountains and stunning high-altitude fire motifs are clearly visible.

One highlight is the famous edelweiss design in the Schneegrube of the Steinernes Meer, which the Saalfelden Fire Brigade has brought to life for almost 70 years using around 800 torches. At over 2,000 meters above sea level, the symbol shines in impressive size – up to 180 meters long, depending on the snow conditions. At exactly 10:00 p.m., three red signal flares are launched from the valley – marking the start of the fire-lighting.

 

A festival with history
The tradition dates back to the 12th century. In local folklore, solstice fires were believed to drive away evil spirits and bless the fields with fertility. In Saalfelden, the first organized solstice fires were lit in 1931 – when young men from the “Körner” gymnastics club carried wood up to the summits to ignite the first flames.

 

Solstice Festival at Ritzensee
The Ritzensee in Saalfelden provides the perfect setting to witness the dramatic spectacle of the solstice fires. In a relaxed atmosphere, visitors enjoy views of the surrounding mountain ridges as night falls and the giant edelweiss in the Schneegrube becomes visible. Musical entertainment and regional cuisine, organized by the Eisenbahner Stadtkapelle, make the evening a special experience for the whole family.

Program:

6:00 p.m.: Start of the event

From 7:30 p.m.: Musical performance by a small ensemble of the Eisenbahner Stadtkapelle Saalfelden

From 10:00 p.m.: Lighting of the mountain fires

Admission is free. The event will only take place in good weather.

 

Solstice Fires on the Asitz
Guests can experience the solstice fires in a truly unique way on the Asitz mountain in Leogang: From the top station at 1,870 meters, the view extends across a stunning panorama filled with solstice fires. The Asitz cable car takes visitors up comfortably. The AlteSchmiede restaurant offers regional delicacies, live music sets the tone for a lively evening, and a bouncy castle near the mountain station keeps the little ones entertained.

Program:

Special operation of the Asitz cable car from 5:00 p.m. to midnight
(Round-trip ticket: €23 / Free for children up to age 15 / Special price valid from 5:00 p.m.)

From 9:00 p.m.: Hike to the Kleine Asitz (approx. 20–30 minutes)

From 10:00 p.m.: Lighting of the solstice fires

Sturdy footwear and warm clothing are recommended.