Miesbach celebrates its traditional costume: tradition, pride and enjoyment at the center!

Miesbach celebrates its traditional costume: tradition, pride and enjoyment at the center!

Miesbach, the picturesque town in the Oberland, is often referred to as the “cradle of the traditional costume movement”. Here, where tradition and customs are kept alive, a fascinating journey through the world of Miesbach traditional costume begins. It is a place where wearing lederhosen and dirndls is not just a matter of occasion, but is at the heart of local identity. The love for the traditional costume is particularly evident among the residents, such as Verena Alt, a passionate traditional costume lover who proudly owns over ten dirndls and also wears them outside of festivities. The 22-year-old is also involved as the first youth leader in the Miesbach traditional costume club, where she looks after 35 children and young people.

The traditional costume that we can admire in Miesbach consists of a characteristic bodice and shawl, leather trousers and a loden jacket. Over the years it has developed into a symbol of Alpine culture. Miesbach remains not only a center for traditional costume lovers, but also a place of inspiration for numerous traditional costume clubs throughout Bavaria and beyond.

Culture and customs

The roots of the Miesbach traditional costume are deeply rooted in the history of Upper Bavaria. From the 19th century onwards, regional clothing traditions were celebrated, which experienced a revival in the course of the traditional costume movement. During the French Revolution, dress codes fell, so the “mountain costume” was discovered and appreciated. Miesbach, as a cultural starting point, remains a living example of the connection between traditional costume and customs. The community proudly shows its heritage at festivals and celebrations, which is also expressed through regular events such as the Gaufest from July 22nd to 27th, 2025.

A walk through Miesbach begins at the train station and leads across Marienplatz to Kirchgasse. On the way, visitors pass the impressive traditional costume fountain, which was designed in 1986 by the sculptor Ursula Kemser-Diess and is a wonderful eye-catcher. A regional market awaits visitors at the market square, offering products from the surrounding area. Here you have the opportunity to experience the Miesbach traditional costume in all its splendor and to experience traditional crafts such as the production of trousers made of deer leather in the Moser sack factory.

Tradition meets modern influences

In Miesbach, tradition is embodied not only by beautiful clothes, but also by special shoes. The Miesbach low shoe, also known as the “Banzä”, is worn by Schuhplattlers and is specially made for dance. The costume does not lack the influence of modern fashion, but the traditional values ​​are preserved. The close connection between traditional costume and identity is unbroken because it stands for pride and regional solidarity.

According to an article by tz The Miesbach traditional costume remains an epitome of Alpine-Bavarian life and will continue to be kept alive. The cultural heritage is maintained and celebrated by various associations and the committed community of citizens. Not only is the craft valued, but also the sociable togetherness, which is promoted through communal dancing and traditional costume events.

There are many ways to experience the traditional costume in its full spirit of life. Whether visiting local cafés, ice cream parlors or restaurants - the tour through Miesbach lasts about two hours and offers plenty of opportunity to fully enjoy the flair of the place. If you arrive by car, you will find parking spaces at Habererplatz, Eisstadion and Rathausstrasse.

The future of the Miesbach traditional costume seems secured, not least through the ongoing support of the local traditional costume clubs, as described in the article by miesbach.de is highlighted. The traditional costume movement, which had its origins in the 19th century, is still kept alive today by a strong cultural awareness that radiates far beyond the borders of Miesbach Historical lexicon of Bavaria explained.