Der Egetmann Association

Guardians of a Living Tradition

Tramin on the Wine Road – a picturesque village in South Tyrol, yet every two years, it transforms into a lively stage for ancient customs. It’s Carnival time, and that means one thing: the Egetmann Parade is about to take place. The Egetmann Association, a close-knit community, keeps this centuries-old tradition alive with passion, dedication, and a deep respect for history.

The Origins: A Tribute to Spring

The first documented Egetmann Parade took place in 1591, though the tradition likely dates back even further. “It’s a Carnival tradition, but it’s much more than that,” explains Günther, president of the Egetmann Association. “It’s a fertility rite, a symbolic expulsion of winter, and a celebration of new beginnings.”

The central figure, Egetmann-Hansl, is a puppet dressed in a tailcoat and top hat, riding through the village in a wedding carriage – but without a bride. Instead, he is accompanied by bizarre characters, including the fearsome Schnappviecher, enormous dragon-like creatures with giant snapping jaws, as well as farmers, craftsmen, and merchants.

A Village in Carnival Fever

The festive period in Tramin begins long before the actual parade – on January 7th, when the first Schnappvieh jump marks the start of the Carnival season. From that moment on, the entire village is in motion: young and old, locals and returning Traminians all work together to prepare costumes, build floats, and ensure the tradition lives on. “The Egetmann unites us”, says Stefan, who oversees the float organization. “It’s not just a spectacle for tourists – it’s our tradition, our shared experience.”

The Characters: Fearsome, Loud, and Unique

In addition to Egetmann-Hansl, the masks and figures play a crucial role in making the parade so special. Most famous are the Schnappviecher – giant wooden dragon heads with moving jaws that noisily snap at the spectators. “If a Schnappvieh comes towards you, you have no choice but to run,” laughs Michael, who has been part of the parade for 20 years.

Equally legendary are the “Burgln” and “Altweibln”, men disguised as old women with soot-smeared faces, who rush through the crowd, playfully capturing unsuspecting onlookers. Then there are the farmers and coopers, who, with cracking whips and buckets of water, drive away the winter. “It’s loud, wild, and sometimes a bit rough – but that’s exactly what makes it so exciting,” says Andreas.

The Heart of the Tradition: The Association and Its Members

The Egetmann Association is far more than just the organizer of the spectacle. Its members carry the responsibility of preserving and passing on the ritual with great pride. “You grow up with this tradition”, says Michael. “As children, we eagerly await our first parade, counting down the years until we can finally participate.”

Women, however, are only allowed to watch – a rule as old as the tradition itself. “Of course, this always sparks discussions”, smiles Andreas. “But it remains one of the last male strongholds – and that’s part of its unique appeal.”

Preparation and a Living Community Spirit

Each parade requires months of meticulous preparation. Costumes are restored, new figures are created, and historical elements are carefully maintained. “This isn’t just a Carnival you watch – it’s living culture”, emphasizes Stefan.

The highlight is the grand parade: thousands of visitors flock to Tramin to witness the spectacle. Loud carts roll through the narrow streets, whips crack, bells ring, and soot-covered figures jump through the crowd. And then comes the climax: the “Putz”, a wild water battle in which no one is spared.

“If you leave dry, you weren’t really there,” laughs Michael.

More Than Just Tradition – A Way of Life

The Egetmann Parade is no relic of the past – it thrives because the people of Tramin love and preserve it with passion. “It’s part of our identity”,says Andreas. “It’s about community, joy, and cherishing our cultural heritage.”

When the parade is over, the excitement lingers for a long time. But for the association, preparations for the next event are already underway – because tradition needs care, dedication, and, above all, people who carry it forward with pride.