Overview
- After a multiyear pause linked to renovations and local works, Mörlbach held its Stephaniritt again, with parish priest Mathias Klein-Heßling leading on horseback and blessing the procession with holy water and incense.
- Multiple Stefaniritte were held or scheduled in Carinthia, including starts at Gotschuchen, Paternion–Tragail, Wintschach, and St. Donat, reflecting the tradition’s broad regional footprint.
- The December 26 observance decorates and parades horses for prayers of protection over animals and riders, with salted bread traditionally given to the animals.
- At Mörlbach, participating horses received commemorative ribbons, while riders and onlookers warmed themselves with mulled wine and lebkuchen by open fires.
- The seasonal cycle continues on January 6 with Dreikönigsritt events such as in Möchling, where the local riding club directs proceeds to community charitable projects.