Allgäu and Dornbirn announce 2026 cattle drive schedules

The 2026 schedule for the traditional Viehscheid (cattle drives) in the Allgäu region of Germany and Dornbirn, Austria, has been established. In the Allgäu, approximately 31,000 young cattle, along with thousands of other animals including sheep, goats, and horses, are expected to return from the mountain pastures during September and October.

Major events in the Allgäu include the drives in Oberstaufen, Bad Hindelang, and Balderschwang, scheduled for September 11 and 12, 2026. The Oberstaufen event is noted for its large scale, involving over 1,000 cattle from 19 alpine pastures. While most dates are set, the traditional kickoff in Kranzegg has been canceled for 2026.

In Dornbirn, Austria, around 1,200 cattle will return to the valley on three Saturdays in September: the 12th, 19th, and 26th. The festivities in Dornbirn include musical entertainment and food at the Enz cattle drive on September 19. Local authorities have noted potential traffic disruptions and road closures in Dornbirn during these periods.