Saint Rupert's Day
2026Thursday, September 24
Quick Facts
- Date
- Thursday, September 24, 2026
- Observed in
- Austria
- Type
- Christian Holiday
What is Saint Rupert's Day?
Saint Rupert's Day is celebrated on September 24th in honor of Saint Rupert of Salzburg, the patron saint of the Austrian state of Salzburg. While not a national holiday in Austria, it is a regional public holiday exclusively in the state of Salzburg.
Saint Rupert (also known as Ruprecht or Hrodbert) was a Frankish bishop who is credited with founding the city of Salzburg and establishing Christianity in the region during the late 7th and early 8th centuries. He is one of the most important figures in Austrian religious history.
The day is marked by the famous Rupertikirtag, a traditional folk festival that transforms Salzburg's old town into a vibrant celebration with markets, music, traditional costumes, and regional delicacies.
When is Saint Rupert's Day 2026?
Saint Rupert's Day is on Thursday, September 24 in 2026. Check the dates and days for other years in the table below.
History & Origin
Saint Rupert was born around 660 AD, likely in the region of Worms in present-day Germany. He came from a noble Frankish family and became Bishop of Worms before embarking on his missionary work in Bavaria.
Around 696 AD, Duke Theodo II of Bavaria invited Rupert to evangelize the region. Rupert traveled along the Danube and eventually arrived at the ruins of the ancient Roman settlement of Juvavum. Recognizing the strategic and spiritual potential of the location, he rebuilt the city and renamed it Salzburg ("Salt Fortress"), establishing it as a center of Christianity.
Rupert founded the Benedictine monastery of St. Peter's (Stift St. Peter), which still exists today as one of the oldest monasteries in the German-speaking world. He also established the Nonnberg Abbey for his niece, Saint Erentrudis.
Saint Rupert died on Easter Sunday, approximately 718 AD. His relics were later transferred to Salzburg Cathedral on September 24, 774 AD, which became his feast day.
How It's Celebrated
Rupertikirtag Festival: The highlight of Saint Rupert's Day is the Rupertikirtag, a traditional folk festival held in Salzburg's old town. Dating back to the Middle Ages, it features market stalls, traditional crafts, regional food, and entertainment.
Traditional Costumes: Many locals wear traditional Austrian Tracht, including dirndls for women and lederhosen for men, during the festivities.
Church Services: Special masses are held at Salzburg Cathedral and St. Peter's Abbey to honor the saint. The Archbishop often leads a solemn procession.
Regional Delicacies: Festival-goers enjoy traditional Salzburg cuisine, including Salzburger Nockerl, Bosna sausages, Bauernkrapfen (farmer's doughnuts), and local beer.
Craft Markets: Artisans display traditional crafts, woodwork, and handmade goods throughout the old town.
Music and Dancing: Traditional Austrian folk music, brass bands, and Schuhplattler folk dancing are featured throughout the celebration.
Pilgrimage: Some devotees make pilgrimages to St. Peter's Abbey and the Nonnberg Abbey to honor Saint Rupert and his legacy.
Where It's Observed
Fun Facts
- Saint Rupert founded St. Peter's Abbey around 696 AD, making it one of the oldest monasteries in the German-speaking world
- The name Salzburg means Salt Fortress, reflecting the salt trade that Rupert developed in the region
- Saint Rupert's relics were transferred to Salzburg Cathedral on September 24, 774 AD, establishing his feast day
- The Rupertikirtag festival dates back to the Middle Ages and is one of Austria's oldest traditional fairs
- Saint Rupert is depicted in art holding a barrel of salt, symbolizing his connection to the salt mining industry
- Nonnberg Abbey, founded by Rupert for his niece Saint Erentrudis, was featured in The Sound of Music
- Saint Rupert's Day is the only day when Salzburg state has a public holiday that the rest of Austria does not observe
- The Rupertikirtag attracts over 100,000 visitors to Salzburg each year
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Rupert of Salzburg?
Saint Rupert (c. 660-718 AD) was a Frankish bishop who founded the city of Salzburg and established Christianity in the region. He is credited with rebuilding the ancient Roman settlement of Juvavum and renaming it Salzburg. He founded St. Peter's Abbey and Nonnberg Abbey, and is the patron saint of Salzburg and salt miners.
Is Saint Rupert's Day a public holiday?
Saint Rupert's Day (September 24) is a public holiday only in the Austrian state of Salzburg. It is not a public holiday in the rest of Austria or other countries. Businesses and schools in Salzburg may be closed.
What is the Rupertikirtag festival?
The Rupertikirtag is a traditional folk festival held in Salzburg's old town to celebrate Saint Rupert's Day. Dating back to the Middle Ages, it features market stalls, traditional crafts, regional food, music, and folk dancing. It is one of Austria's oldest and most beloved traditional fairs.
Why is Saint Rupert associated with salt?
Saint Rupert developed the salt mining industry in the region, which became the foundation of Salzburg's wealth and gave the city its name (Salz = salt, Burg = fortress). He is the patron saint of salt miners and is often depicted holding a barrel of salt.
What can visitors see on Saint Rupert's Day in Salzburg?
Visitors can experience the Rupertikirtag festival with its market stalls and traditional food, attend special masses at Salzburg Cathedral, visit St. Peter's Abbey (founded by Rupert), see the beautiful old town decorated for the occasion, and enjoy traditional music and folk dancing.
How is Saint Rupert celebrated in churches?
Churches in Salzburg hold special masses and services on Saint Rupert's Day. The main celebration is at Salzburg Cathedral, which houses the saint's relics. The Archbishop often leads a solemn procession, and St. Peter's Abbey holds commemorative services.
Travel Inspiration
Planning a trip around Saint Rupert's Day? Explore our travel guides for destinations where this holiday is celebrated.
