The Carnival Tradition of the Unterland / Bassa Atesina in South Tyrol

In the Unterland Valley, Maschgra, the local version of Carnival, is considered the “fifth season” and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. This period is filled with lively traditions, colorful parades, and symbolic figures that are deeply rooted in local culture.

One of the most famous Carnival traditions in the region is the Perkeos Maschggra Parade in Salorno/Salurn. The character of Perkeo is based on a historical court jester from Heidelberg, who originally came from Salurn. During the Carnival season, Perkeo symbolically takes control of the town. On Carnival Thursday, he receives the town’s key from the mayor and, along with his entourage, travels through the valley, inviting everyone to the grand  Parade, held on Carnival Saturday. The parade is a vibrant spectacle, featuring elaborately decorated floats that depict traditional trades and aspects of village life, such as coal burners, washerwomen, and fishermen. The parade takes place every two years in even-numbered years.

Equally significant is the Egetmann Parade in Tramin, first documented in 1591. This historic Carnival tradition reenacts a peasant wedding, with the central figure, "Egetmann Hansl," dressed in a tailcoat and top hat. The wedding procession includes a diverse cast of characters, among them the Schnappviecher – fearsome creatures with oversized jaws and wooden teeth that create plenty of noise and excitement. The Egetmann Parade takes place every two years in odd-numbered years.

In other villages of the Unterland Valley, Maschgra is celebrated with traditional parades and festivities. The events are filled with music, dance, and folklore, offering both locals and visitors the chance to experience the vibrant Carnival customs of the region.