Autumn Redyk in the Tatra Mountains – a magical tradition you must experience

Autumn Redyk in the Tatra Mountains – a magical tradition you must experience

The Tatra Mountains are not only about majestic peaks, highlander music, and oscypek cheese. They are also home to extraordinary traditions that have survived for centuries and still captivate with their authenticity.
One of the most beautiful Podhale rituals is the redyk – the ceremonial departure and return of sheep to and from the mountain pastures.
If you’re planning a visit to Zakopane, it’s worth timing your stay to coincide with this unique event, which transports visitors straight into the world of old highlander culture.

What is a redyk?

A redyk is a ceremonial event linked to sheep grazing in the Tatra Mountains. For centuries, highlanders have grazed sheep on alpine meadows, and the start and end of the grazing season have always been celebrated in a special way.

• Spring redyk – usually takes place in late April or May, when shepherds (bacowie) and their assistants (juhasi) lead their flocks up to the mountain pastures.

• Autumn redyk – held in September or October, marks the return of the sheep from the high pastures down to the villages.

Both events attract not only locals but also tourists eager to witness the colorful procession, hear the sound of sheep bells, and feel the atmosphere of old Podhale.

History of the redyk

The tradition of the redyk dates back hundreds of years. The first shepherds appeared in the Tatra region as early as the 16th century, and their pastoral culture, known as Wołoska (Vlach), greatly influenced highlander customs, cuisine, and music.
The redyk was never just a practical herding event; it was also a significant ritual during which highlanders prayed for protection over their animals and gave thanks for a successful grazing season.
To this day, the redyk retains its religious and cultural character—usually beginning with a Holy Mass, followed by a colorful procession of sheep led by shepherds dressed in traditional highlander outfits.

Why take part in a redyk?

The redyk is not a tourist show but a living tradition that has endured for centuries. Highlander costumes, folk music, and the smell of freshly made oscypek cheese in shepherds’ huts all create an unforgettable atmosphere worth experiencing at least once.
The backdrop of the Tatra landscapes adds even more charm—gold and crimson in autumn, lush green in spring.
Children will delight at the sight of hundreds of sheep and the chance to meet the shepherds, while adults will appreciate the rich culture and ancient traditions that are hard to find anywhere else.

Redyk in the Tatras and nearby – when?

• Dolina Chochołowska - September 28

• Ochotnica Górna – October 4

• Kluszkowce – October 18

• Czarny Dunajec – October 25

These gatherings attract large crowds, so it’s worth planning your trip in advance and booking comfortable accommodations.

Stay with us in Zakopane

If you want to experience the redyk in the heart of Podhale, our apartments in Zakopane are the perfect base. We offer cozy interiors, an excellent location, and a highlander ambiance that will make you feel like a true local.
After a day full of unforgettable impressions, you can relax in comfort and set out the next morning for Tatra hiking trails or more folk festivities.

The redyk is more than just a tradition—it’s a living lesson in highlander history and culture.
Come to Zakopane, feel the magic of Podhale, and watch the sheep return from the mountain pastures.
It’s an experience you’ll treasure forever. Book your apartment today and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Tatra Mountains!