From 6 to 12 July 2025, Feld am See will be all about local fish specialties and regional cuisine.
The annual Fish Gourmet Week invites you to the picturesque Brennsee lake with a varied program and convivial atmosphere. The culinary highlight will be the 21st Fish Festival on Saturday, July 12, at the historic church square. This festival, which began on a small scale, has developed into one of the region's most popular culinary festivals, attracting numerous visitors each year who appreciate the diversity and quality of Carinthian fish farming and preparation.
Culinary diversity: Two tons of fish from the region
The Fish Festival in Feld am See is a true showcase of regional fish culture. Restaurateurs, fish farmers, and local clubs present an impressive range of dishes. From traditional classics like the popular Fish on a stick and the famous “Carinthia Låxn“ (Carinthian salmon trout) to modern and creative interpretations such as fish wraps, paella with local fish, pizza calzone made from regional fish and this year’s novelty “Pike à la Mode“ – the culinary selection is rich and shows the diversity of the regional fish offering.
Master fisherman Andreas Hofer, one of the driving forces behind the festival, emphasized the importance of the event: "With the fish festival, we have been raising awareness about fish in the region for many years. This year, for the first time, we are offering 'pike à la mode'." A total of around two tons of fish are processed, mainly from the surrounding lakes, such as Brennsee, Afritzer See, and Millstätter See, as well as from regional fish farms. This underscores the focus on local products and the added value in the region. The use of freshwater fish from the clear waters of Carinthia guarantees the highest quality and freshness of the specialties.
A celebration for the whole family: entertainment and craftsmanship
The Fish Festival on Saturday, July 12, begins at 10:00 a.m. at the church square and offers a comprehensive program for all ages. While adults enjoy the culinary delights and conviviality, a colorful children's program provides entertainment for the youngest visitors. bouncy castle invites you to romp around, craft stations encourage creativity, and children's face painting transforms the little guests into fantastic characters. A special highlight for children is the Gemstone cutting, which provides playful insights into the world of minerals.
The musical accompaniment of the festival is provided by the traditional Traditional costume band Feld am See, which creates a festive atmosphere. From 15:00 PM, the "Carinthian rebels“ take the stage and guarantee the best entertainment with their music.
Along the village street it is worth stopping at the stalls of the Carinthian artisans. Unique products reflecting the creativity and craftsmanship of the region are offered here. These include fish leather jewelry, artistic wooden products, turned objects, handmade soaps, and various accessories. These stalls offer visitors the opportunity to take home a piece of Carinthian craftsmanship as a souvenir of the festival. In case of inclement weather, the festival will be postponed to Sunday, July 13th, as a precautionary measure to ensure an unspoiled experience for visitors.
Festive start and daily delights at the Fish Gourmet Week
Starting Sunday, July 6, a promising aroma will waft over Feld am See's church square, preparing visitors for the grand fish festival. Throughout the week, freshly prepared fish dishes will be offered daily, accompanied by music that will create a fitting atmosphere.
The ceremonial opening of the fish enjoyment week will take place on Sunday evening in the Seepark and will begin at 18:00 p.m. with a ecumenical serviceA special highlight is the Baptism of the new “fish wine”, which was specially selected for this week and is intended to perfectly complement the regional specialties. The Feld am See traditional costume band and the Gegendtal children's and youth folk dance group will accompany the opening ceremony with music and dance, ensuring a festive atmosphere.
The opening evening will be a culinary highlight with the traditional Yellow Kirchtagssuppe from Carinthian Låxn , a regional specialty that reflects the variety of flavors of Carinthia. The new fish wine "Sauvignon blanc Feld am See 2024" is served to round off the taste experience. Starting at 19:00 p.m., live music creates a summery atmosphere and invites you to linger and enjoy. Throughout the week, fish is celebrated daily, with a diverse culinary offering and live music starting around 19:00 p.m., which accompanies the evenings on the lakeshore.
Insights into fish farming: knowledge and craftsmanship
For anyone interested in learning more about the origins of these fish specialties, the festival also offers a look behind the scenes of regional fish farming. On Thursday, July 10, master fisherman Andreas Hofer invites you to a Guided tour of the Feld am See fish farm The tour begins at 14:00 PM and is free of charge. This tour offers visitors the opportunity to gain direct insights into local fish farming methods and the importance of regional biodiversity.
Fish farming in Carinthia has a long tradition and is an important economic sector for rural regions. The clean waters of the lakes and rivers provide ideal conditions for raising fish such as char, trout, and carp. The region's fish farmers value traditional but also modern methods that ensure the welfare of the animals and the quality of their products. Participation in such a tour can deepen your understanding of the origins of food and increase appreciation for the work of fish farmers. It is an opportunity to learn firsthand how the fish are bred and cared for before they end up on the plates of festival visitors. The combination of festivity and educational opportunities makes the Fish Gourmet Week a comprehensive experience that delights both the palate and the mind.
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