The Schäffler Dance is one of Bavaria’s most distinctive traditional cultural events. Originating in Munich and first documented in 1702, it is performed every seven years during carnival season – most recently in 2019 and again in 2026.
The dance was originally performed by coopers, the skilled craftsmen who produced wooden barrels for beer and wine. For centuries, only unmarried journeymen of good standing were allowed to participate. Since the 1960s, participation has been opened more broadly to preserve the tradition.
A popular legend claims that the dance began in 1517 during the time of the plague. According to the story, the coopers danced through Munich’s streets to encourage frightened citizens to leave their homes and revive public life. While historians debate the accuracy of this tale, the symbolism of hope and renewal remains central to the tradition.
The performance follows a structured sequence of choreographed figures:
The dancers wear traditional 19th-century-style costumes: red jackets, black knee-breeches, white stockings and green caps with white plumes. Additional roles include comic figures, barrel drummers and lead dancers.
From around 1830 onward, travelling journeymen spread the custom throughout Upper Bavaria and Bavarian Swabia. Today, many towns continue the seven-year cycle.
More than folklore, the Schäffler Dance represents craftsmanship, cultural continuity and collective resilience. For international audiences, it offers a unique insight into southern Germany’s living traditions – where history, symbolism and celebration meet.
In Altötting a local Schäffler Dance group performed their traditional dances. Afterwards it is a good tradition that the host offers something to drink. Focusing on our European friendships Mayor Stephan Antwerpen invited the dancers and musicians to a glass of ginginja (sweet chery liqueur) from Ourém (Portugal) and a glass of herbal liqueur from Mariazell (Austria).