Festival of the Pöllauer Pear

By project SMEOrigin

Published on 26 March 2024

Austria

Steiermark

About this good practice

The traditional ORF Radio Styria Hiking Day took place in the Pöllauer Tal Nature Park at the end of October. In good spirits and with lots of laughter, numerous hikers followed in the footsteps of the deer pear in the Pöllau Valley Nature Park and enjoyed their time in Eastern Styria. Once again, fitness, culinary delights, fun and tradition were combined to create a harmonious event for young and old. Delicious specialities based around the Pöllauer Hirschbirne pear were on the programme as well as musical entertainment and a successful presentation by ORF Radio Steiermark. Two hiking routes were specially chosen to enable all visitors to experience the Pöllau Valley Nature Park in the Garden of Austria from its most beautiful side.

Resources needed

Funding by Styria, members of Werbekreis Pöllautal including staff and co-hosts for culinary tasting. Leader funding is provide for some side events. The budget comes from various sponsors, but admission remains free. The raffle tickets for the "Hirschbirnen Raffle" generate additional income.

Evidence of success

About 5000 hikers came together to participate in the Hiking Day. The event reached many people and was a great success. Many people were brought to the region and a small program created a good atmosphere. The event also has a positive economic impact. The increased revenue for local shops, restaurants and hotels makes the event economically attractive. The fact that the event has been organized for many years and has grown in size is a proof to its success.

Potential for learning or transfer

The organised hiking day and festival was used perfectly to reach many people.The event was therefore a great marketing opportunity and reached many people as well as creating a great atmosphere. Getting tourism, food, SME, media and the civil society together to celebrate this unique producted product is unique in Austria. Hikes often promote a sense of community. Participants may meet new people, experience teamwork and share common interests. A hike not only provides a positive effect on the body and serves as a mental recovery, but also gives us a great opportunity for environmental bonding and sensitisation to conservation issues. The Pöllau Hiking Day also brings us closer to the historical aspects of the region. Participants can learn more about local traditions, customs and the history of the place. The integration of regional specialities such as the Hirschbirne pear offers everyone the opportunity to gain an insight into local agriculture and culinary traditions.