40 years Axamer village festival

The calling card of the municipality of Axams

The mayor of Axams, Thomas Suitner, describes the Axams village festival as 'Axams' calling card'. And rightly so, because the three-day festival brings together dance enthusiasts, party people and music lovers from Axams and the surrounding communities and districts.

This year marks the 40th edition: from August 8 to 10, 2025, with music groups that guarantee an exuberant atmosphere, such as the Pfunds Kerle, Hollawind, Eschenauer Tanzlmusi, Brennholz - die Band, and a special guest (from the old days) on Sunday. For the younger guests, DJ Andy and BÄÄM will heat up the disco on Friday and Saturday evening.

I was able to find out a few things about the Axamer Dorffest, including the reason why it is such a special festival in the western low mountain range. Incidentally, it's only 20 minutes away from Innsbruck, making it popular with festival guests from the city.

Photos: C_Auer, MW

the Axamer Dorffest celebrates its 40th birthday in 2025

the festival was founded in 1982. Gotthard Haider, the first chairman of the festival and founder, recounted that twelve associations met to set up the first organizing committee. At that time, there was still little enthusiasm to really get involved. After a first successful edition, with unexpectedly high visitor numbers, it was clear that the Axamer Dorffest would be continued.

In the video, the founders, chairmen and the organizing committee tell the story of the Axamer Dorffest.

Strong clubs, strong festival

Since the very beginning, Axam's clubs have been the backbone of the village festival. 15 clubs are actively involved - and what's special: The total proceeds are divided fairly among them all. This fair model is not common practice everywhere and is probably one of the reasons for the strong commitment of each individual.

Side fact: The revenue record of over EUR 200,000 was reached in 2022 after a 2-year forced break due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In comparison to the past: Although only around 30% of the turnover remains as profit today due to rising costs (previously around 50%), the organization team is pleased that the clubs continue to benefit noticeably - in recognition of their great commitment.

The whole village is on its feet and gets together

Why is the Axamer Dorffest so special? Once a year, the village center is transformed into a meeting place for young and old, locals and guests from the surrounding area. The focus is not just on celebrating - it is a living symbol of community, cohesion and living tradition.

For Mayor Thomas Suitner, it's quite clear: "The Axamer Dorffest is the mother of all festivals." What makes him particularly happy? The fact that so many visitors - not only from Axams itself, but also from other villages - come to his home village for the three days of festivities every year. A village that is open to everyone - and with heart.

Another reason for the special character of the village festival for him is the excellent organization. The close cooperation with the organizing committee, the interaction between the many helping hands, and the festival itself - everything runs smoothly and with palpable joy.

What makes the village festival truly unique, however, is the strong involvement of the local clubs. They not only contribute to the program, but also share the proceeds of the festival. There is no competition, just exemplary solidarity and cooperation. This system fills the mayor with great gratitude and pride.

The Axamer Dorffest is more than just a three-day event with music and good food. It is a festival of encounters, appreciation and togetherness. Once a year - and yet long remembered.

Behind the scenes: When numbers speak for the village festival

I had the opportunity to take a look behind the scenes of the Axamer Dorffest together with Bernd - treasurer and equipment manager of the organizing committee.

He knows with precision how many schnitzels have to be ordered, how many Blattln (a traditional Tyrolean delicacy) are baked in the deep fryers - and of course how many portions the stalls can expect over the three days of the festival. When it comes to catering, nothing is left to chance.

The figures at a glance:

2.000 to 2,500 schnitzels

800 to 1,000 barbecue plates

400 chicken (= 800 portions)

2.800 Blattln (= deep-fried pastries)

6.000 - 7,000 liters of beer

4.000 liters of wine

1.000 bottles of vodka

15.000 visitors over 3 days

The food is sourced regionally from local farmers and bakers, where possible directly from Axams at the Funer Hof farm store. The dough for the 2,800 "Blattln" is mixed, kneaded and made by hand by the hard-working cooks and deep-fried just before consumption.

The organizing committee and the municipality of Axams are looking forward to welcoming all visitors and especially to celebrating 40 years of Axamer Dorffest.

See you on the dance floor from August 8 to 10, 2025!

Further information and a competition can be found on the Axamer Dorffest website.