RIED, Austria — The Sportmesse Ried, Austria’s largest trade fair for sports, fitness, and movement, opened its doors Friday, March 20, 2026, drawing praise from officials and signaling the start of the country’s active season. The event, held in Ried, is expected to attract a large number of visitors and exhibitors over its three-day run.
Upper Austrian Landesrat Markus Achleitner officially opened the fair, stating, “Bühne frei für Trends, Action und Bewegung” – “The stage is set for trends, action, and movement.” He emphasized the importance of sports and physical activity in promoting a healthy lifestyle for residents of Upper Austria. Achleitner highlighted the event as “a highlight in the Upper Austrian sports calendar and an excellent platform to present the diversity of sports in our state.”
The Sportmesse Ried features more than 55 interactive stations, offering opportunities to endeavor new sports like billiards, unicycling, skiing, slacklining, and soccer golf. Attendees can also participate in the “20 Meter Messe Ried-Champion” competition and watch the Upper Austrian Street Running Championships for the U18 age group.
This year’s fair also includes a special “Fill Your Future” school day on Friday, offering free admission to all visitors thanks to a partnership with the FILL company. The Innviertler Kids Cup, a running series for young athletes, is also a featured event.
According to organizers, the Sportmesse Ried has become a significant platform for sports and movement since its debut in 2007. The event will be open from 10 a.m. To 5 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, March 21 and 22, 2026. Visitors can uncover more information about opening hours, tickets, and directions on the official Sportmesse Ried website. The fair’s popularity underscores the growing interest in health and wellness activities across Austria.
The opening ceremony was attended by Helmut Slezak, Messegeschäftsführer; Michaela Schmidt, Sport-Staatssekretärin; and prominent athletes including Sofia Polcanova, Endiorass Kingley, and Hans Pum, as well as Sandra Reichel, Turnierdirektorin of Upper Austria Ladies Linz.
