In Prato allo Stelvio/Prad am Stilfserjoch, art and culture seamlessly coexist with traditional life. Customs of pagan origin – originally Christianized and in this manner conserved – are cultivated in the Venosta Valley through the present day. There are fascinating local winter customs like the
Zussl race in Prato and the unspoilt
Klosn in Stelvio/Stilfs. In addition, there are attractive
Christmas markets full of atmosphere like the Advent in Glorenza/Glurns in the mediaeval village on the Adige river or the Val Martello Christmas market at more than 2000 metres above sea level.
Just about the entire population take part in typically boisterous celebrations and rituals leading up to Christmas such as the cracking of long whips, the Zussl race or dances of the masks symbolizing the ‘expulsion’ of winter. The Krampus raids and
Santa Clause parades are genuine old folk festivals with a particular impact on children. In June every year, the
Sacred Heart Fires are lit up on the slopes across the valley providing visitors with a fascinating spectacle against the backdrop of the mountains.