Funkaküachle, burning sparks and chasing away winter
With "Funka, Funka ho..." the winter is driven away every year. Burning off the sparks is a tradition that is practised and cultivated throughout Vorarlberg.
21. + 22. FEB 2026

The burning of sparks is an old fire custom that is still widespread in the Swabian-Alemannic region - including Vorarlberg. The custom dates back to pre-Christian times.
The spark weekend always falls on the first weekend after carnival. The burning of the spark witch is intended to drive away the demons of winter and welcome the rising light. This Alemannic custom is also upheld by the spark guilds in all districts of Feldkirch. The traditional burning of the sparks is accompanied by entertainment and bands. A firework display often forms the crowning finale. During the children's spark building in the afternoon, the potential next generation of sparklers can get to work and try their hand at the typical nailing of wooden planks.
Spark weekend: 8/9 March 2025