Apricot Festival in the Wachau Valley: Alles Marille in Krems & Marillenkirtag in Spitz, July 17–19

Apricot Festival in the Wachau Valley: Alles Marille in Krems & Marillenkirtag in Spitz, July 17–19 Apricot festival in the Wachau Valley: Alles Marille! in Krems and Marillenkirtag in Spitz, July 17–19. Program, tastings, folk traditions, and the longest apricot cake in Austria. Topics: News, Leisure & Culture, Food & Shopping.

The Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrates its most famous fruit in July — the Wachauer Marille (Wachau apricot). From July 17 to 19, several towns along the Danube turn into lively festival grounds. The biggest celebrations take place in Krems (Alles Marille!) and Spitz an der Donau (Marillenkirtag). This guide covers everything you need to know: the full program, must-try dishes, and practical tips for your visit.

What Makes the Wachau Apricot So Special

The Wachauer Marille is the only Austrian fruit with a Protected Geographical Indication (g.U.). These small, bright-orange apricots with a reddish blush are known for their intense aroma — sweet with a subtle tang. The unique microclimate of the Wachau Valley — warm summer days, cool nights, and soils of loess and gneiss — creates perfect growing conditions. Harvest begins in mid-July and lasts about four weeks. As the Wachau Apricot Association reports, the 2026 crop is below average due to May frosts and low rainfall, making every tasting at the festival even more precious.

Alles Marille! in Krems: Austria’s Longest Apricot Mile

The main event of the apricot festival in the Wachau Valley takes place in Krems an der Donau. The festival Alles Marille! runs from July 9 to 26, 2026 (Wednesday through Sunday). The weekend of July 17–19 features the peak program, including the traditional Trachtensonntag (Costume Sunday) and the cutting of the longest apricot cake in the country.

Krems’ 700-meter pedestrian zone transforms into the “longest apricot mile” in Austria. Stalls line the streets offering Marillenknödel (apricot dumplings), Marillenkuchen (apricot cake), Marillenmarmelade (apricot jam), apricot ice cream, apricot punch, and much more.

According to Heute.at, the program includes live music, folk dance performances, and children’s activities. On Saturday, July 18, a Charity Apricot Dumpling Cooking event takes place at 10:00 AM at Täglicher Markt, featuring ski jumping legend Andreas Goldberger and the Wachaufestspiele ensemble. At 3:00 PM, the ceremonial cutting of the country’s longest apricot cake draws crowds from all over Austria.

Marillenkirtag in Spitz: King and Queen of Apricots

Running parallel to the Krems festivities, the traditional Marillenkirtag (Apricot Fair) takes place from July 17 to 19 in the picturesque town of Spitz an der Donau. This event has a particularly authentic, family-friendly atmosphere centered around the Spitz market square.

The program kicks off on Friday, July 17, at 6:00 PM with a Dämmerschoppen (twilight gathering) at Kirchenplatz. Saturday and Sunday feature folk music performances, apricot products from local producers, and of course, freshly made Marillenknödel prepared according to traditional recipes.

The highlight is Sunday’s costumed parade. King “Marillus” and Queen “Aprikosia” proceed through town accompanied by the Spitz Trachtenkapelle, locals in traditional Wachauer Tracht, and honorary guests. After the parade, the Golden Marille awards are presented to the best growers. According to the official Spitz town website, the music continues into the evening with the “Wachauer Kirtagsmusi” and “Die Donauprinzen.”

The apricot festival in the Wachau is more than a culinary celebration. It’s a living tradition that connects generations. Seeing families in their traditional costumes gives us hope that our culture thrives.

— Marillenkirtag Organizing Committee, Spitz an der Donau

Must-Try Foods at the Festival

Marillenknödel (apricot dumplings) are the undisputed king of apricot desserts. A fresh apricot is wrapped in potato or quark dough, boiled, and rolled in toasted breadcrumbs with sugar and cinnamon. Served with melted butter and powdered sugar, these dumplings sell out fast — arrive early.

Marillenmarmelade (apricot jam) is judged in an official competition on Sunday, July 19, in Krems. A professional jury including renowned pastry chefs selects the best product, as reported on the Krems tourism website. Visitors can taste all submitted samples.

Marillenkuchen — a 25-meter-long apricot cake made from puff pastry, custard, and fresh apricots — is cut on Saturday at 3:00 PM at Täglicher Markt in Krems. Getting a slice of this giant cake has become a tradition for thousands of visitors.

Marillenschnaps (apricot brandy) is a signature product of the region. Local distillers bring their finest selections to the festival for tasting and purchase.

Program Highlights for July 17–19, 2026

Friday, July 17:

• Spitz: Dämmerschoppen at Kirchenplatz from 6:00 PM
• Krems: Kremser Marktduett (market & music) at Pfarrplatz & Dreifaltigkeitsplatz (8:00 AM–12:00 PM); barrel organ player in the old town; guided tour with apricot tasting (5:00–6:30 PM, registration required)

Saturday, July 18:

• Spitz: Fair at the market square from 12:00 PM; live music from the Musikschule Wachau youth band, Arnsdorfer Dorfblech, and “Impulse eventmusic”
• Krems: Frühschoppen with the Krems City Band (10:30 AM); Charity Apricot Dumpling Cooking with Andreas Goldberger (10:00 AM–12:00 PM); cutting of the longest apricot cake (3:00 PM)

Sunday, July 19 — Trachtensonntag:

• Spitz: Costumed parade starting at 3:00 PM; Golden Marille awards ceremony
• Krems: Dirndl fashion show by Irenes Dirndl Liab (10:00 AM); Loosdorf folk dance group; Apricot Jam Competition (from 2:00 PM)

How to Get There and Practical Tips

The Wachau Valley is located about 80 km west of Vienna. By car, take the A1 motorway (exit Krems or Melk). By train, direct regional trains run from Vienna Franz-Josefs-Bahnhof to Krems (about 1 hour 10 minutes). From Krems to Spitz, it’s about 20 minutes by car or 30 minutes by bus along the Danube.

Tips for your visit:

• Wear traditional costume (Dirndl or Lederhosen) on Sunday — you’ll fit right in and enjoy the Trachtensonntag atmosphere.
• Marillenknödel sell out quickly—arrive when the stalls open.
• Be prepared for extreme heat in July, which can reach +35 °C — bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Book accommodation well in advance: hotels in the Wachau fill up weeks ahead for this weekend.
• For the guided Krems tour with tasting, register at [email protected] or +43 2732 82676.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the apricot festival in the Wachau take place? Alles Marille! in Krems runs July 9–26, 2026 (Wednesday–Sunday). The Marillenkirtag in Spitz runs July 17–19, 2026. The peak events are on the weekend of July 17–19.

Is there an entry fee? Entry to both Alles Marille! in Krems and the Marillenkirtag in Spitz is free. You only pay for food and drinks. Apricot dumplings cost around €4–6 per serving.

What is the Wachauer Marille? It’s an apricot with Protected Geographical Indication (g.U.) grown exclusively in the Wachau Valley. It’s known for its intense aroma. The 2026 harvest is below average due to frost.

Can I bring my dog? Yes, dogs are welcome. Keep them on a leash near food stalls and in crowded areas.

Savor the Flavors of the Wachau Valley

The apricot festival in the Wachau Valley offers a unique opportunity to taste Austria’s finest seasonal delicacies, experience living traditions, and enjoy a UNESCO World Heritage landscape — all in one weekend. Marillenknödel, the 25-meter apricot cake, the King and Queen parade, and dozens of musical performances await you in Krems and Spitz from July 17 to 19. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on seasonal events across Austria.