Kaiserschmarrn Festival in Ellmau
One of Austria's favourite pastries
According to legend, the cook of Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I failed to make the pancake batter and accidentally tore it when serving it. The emperor is said to have responded: "What kind of rubbish is that?" The chef then replied glibly: "It's a Kaiserschmarrn!"
This is how Kaiserschmarrn entered Austrian cuisine in 1854 and has been one of the most popular pastries in our country ever since.
In honour of this delicacy, the Ellmau innkeepers organise an annual festival with numerous "Kaiserschmarrn specialities" accompanied by atmospheric Tyrolean folk music.
Whether classic or as an accompaniment to a dish, a wide variety of pancake specialities are offered at the "Kaiserschmarrn Festival".




Information at a glance
- 16 May 2026
- Ellmau town centre
- in all weathers, admission free
- Austrian cuisine, live music
- Catering with Kaiserschmarrn in many variations (sweet, savoury, spicy & extravagant)
Programme overview
| from 12:00 pm | Marching in of the Ellmau brass band & opening of the Kaiserschmarrn festival |
| from 12:00 pm | The hosts invite you to enjoy the numerous Kaiserschmarrn creations, accompanied by Tyrolean folk music |
| 6 pm | End of event |
Arrival
Kaiserschmarrn-Fest takes place in the centre of Ellmau and is just a few minutes ' walk from the Ellmau Dorf/Bauhof bus stop.
With the Wilder Kaiser GuestCard , both the KaiserJet and the public buses to Ellmau can be used free of charge. Free parking is available at the Ellmau West, Mitte & Ost car parks.
Tip
Information and booking for coach groups
Reserved parking spaces are available for coaches at the Kaiserschmarrn Festival.
The car parks are free and limited and can only be booked in advance.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions:
- Photo material, press relations and advertising: Ellmau Tourist Office
- Organisational questions: Christian Platzer, Gasthof Ellmauer Hof or Bettina Modes, Restaurant Bettina
