Christmas in Austria - markets, traditions and magic

Austria is beautiful any time of year but it transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas time, offering visitors a truly enchanting holiday experience that blends centuries-old traditions with magical winter charm. From glittering Christmas markets to snow-covered Alpine landscapes, the country becomes a festive paradise that captures the essence of the European holiday spirit. Let's explore the markets, traditions, activities and food that help make December a wonderful time to visit Austria. 

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Enchanting Christmas Markets

No Austrian Christmas is complete without exploring the legendary Weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets or Advent markets). These festive celebrations transform cities and towns into magical winter wonderlands. They are far more than simple shopping destinations – they are vibrant cultural experiences that capture the heart and soul of Austrian holiday traditions. The tradition of Christmas markets in Austria dates back to the late Middle Ages, with Vienna's first recorded Christmas market appearing in the late 13th century. These markets evolved from winter trading events into the festive celebrations we know today, blending centuries of cultural heritage with joyful holiday spirit.

The Vienna Christmas markets are particularly renowned, with the Christkindlmarkt in front of the City Hall standing out as a spectacular centerpiece. There are over 150 festively decorated stalls, an enormous Christmas tree adorned with thousands of lights, an ice rink surrounding the market and spectacular light displays and decorations.

The Salzburg Christmas Market is another must see. Nestled in the shadow of the city's iconic fortress, Salzburg's market offers traditional handcrafted goods, local artisan products, stunning baroque architecture as a backdrop and live musical performances celebrating Mozart's hometown traditions.

The Innsbruck Christmas Market is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Austrian Alps and features mountain-inspired handicrafts, traditional Tyrolean decorations, local culinary specialties, and stunning views of snow-capped mountains.

Of course there are many other Christmas markets throughout the country besides the ones mentioned. Many smaller towns and villages have their own market. Each has its own character and charm. Make sure to check out the markets in Graz and Linz for example.

Some of the popular Austrian gifts to purchase in the markets are hand-blown glass ornaments, wooden carved figurines, handknitted winter accessories and traditional Austrian Christmas decorations. Make sure you also enjoy the culinary delights available at the markets including Glühwein (spiced mulled wine served in commemorative mugs), Lebkuchen (traditional honey and spice cookies), Käsekrapfen (cheese-filled pastries), and gingerbread.

Even if you don't want to shop, the Austrian Christmas markets have plenty to offer. Carol singers, children's workshops, Christmas lights, live music, skating rinks and craft demonstrations are often part of the markets. Some will even have a live nativity scene. The markets are a fun way to enjoy the festive season, good food and Austrian culture. 

The markets typically run from the end of November through Christmas Eve, with some going into January. Check for the individual opening dates and times for each market. Cash is usually preferred but some stalls are beginning to accept credit cards. Be sure to dress warmly and expect crowds as tourists and local like to enjoy the festive atmosphere. 

Christmas traditions in Austria

Austria has several distinctive Christmas traditions that set it apart. They  are a blend of religious reverence, folklore, and family-centered celebrations that create a uniquely enchanting holiday experience. 

The Austrian Christmas begins long before December 24th. The Advent season, or the period awaiting the birth of baby Jesus, begins in early December and is marked by hanging an advent wreath in homes and public spaces, giving an advent calendar to children, weekly candle-lighting ceremonies and many family gatherings.

On December 5th, Austria transforms with one of its most unique traditions – Krampus Night. Krampus, a horned, demonic creature from Alpine mythology, serves as the dark counterpart to Saint Nicholas, representing punishment for misbehaving children. Young men don elaborate, frightening costumes covered in dark fur, with intricate masks featuring twisted horns, sharp teeth, and grotesque facial features. Carrying large cowbells that clang ominously and bundles of birch twigs traditionally used for symbolic punishment, these Krampus performers parade through streets, creating an atmosphere of controlled terror that has been part of Austrian cultural tradition for centuries.

The Austrian Christmas tradition of Krampus is far more than a simple Halloween-like costume event; it's a deeply rooted cultural ritual that blends pre-Christian folklore with Christian traditions of moral judgment. Each Krampus costume is a work of artistic craftsmanship, often taking months to create and costing thousands of euros, with intricate details that can include real animal fur, hand-carved wooden masks, and elaborate bell arrangements. The Krampus run (Krampusläufe) has become a significant community event, drawing thousands of spectators who watch groups of Krampus performers march through town, occasionally approaching and playfully frightening onlookers. While the tradition might seem terrifying, particularly to children, it's a cherished cultural practice that symbolizes the balance between reward and punishment, good and evil, and serves as a unique way of maintaining cultural heritage and teaching moral lessons.

The next day, on December 6th, Austria comes alive with the cherished celebration called the feast day of St. Nicholas or simply St. Nicholas day. This is a beloved tradition that brings joy and excitement to children across the country. St. Nicholas, known as Nikolaus in Austria, arrives dressed in traditional bishop's robes, complete with a long white beard and a golden staff, embodying the spirit of generosity and kindness. Families prepare for his arrival by having children polish their boots or leave out a carefully cleaned pair, hoping they will be filled with small gifts, treats, and candies. Unlike the American Santa Claus, the Austrian St. Nicholas is more closely modeled on the historical St. Nicholas of Myra, maintaining a more dignified and religious appearance that reflects the deep Christian roots of the tradition.

The celebration often involves a carefully orchestrated visit from St. Nicholas, accompanied by a helper who plays a crucial role in the ritual. This helper, sometimes dressed as a dark, somewhat frightening character, typically carries a book detailing the children's behavior throughout the year. St. Nicholas carefully reviews this book, praising well-behaved children and gently admonishing those who might have misbehaved. Children are expected to recite a poem, sing a song, or demonstrate good behavior to receive their gifts. Typical treats include chocolates, oranges, nuts, apples, and small gifts. While the arrival of St. Nicholas can be both exciting and slightly intimidating for young children, it remains a cherished annual event that brings families together and continues a centuries-old cultural practice that bridges religious tradition with childhood wonder.

In Austria, Christmas Eve (Heiliger Abend) is the primary day of celebration. Families usually gather for a special dinner which often includes carp (gebackener karpfen), goose or duck for the main course, various side dishes such as red cabbage or dumplings and special Christmas breads. Christmas gifts are typically exchanged on Christmas Eve. The Christkind (Christ Child) is believed to bring presents. Children are often sent to another room while gifts are prepared and when the gifts are ready a small bell rings to tell the children the gifts have arrived. Christmas Eve culminates in the beloved Midnight Mass tradition. Churches are elaborately decorated with nativity scenes, lights, candles and other decorations. Midnight mass is a deep religious tradition as a way of celebrating Christmas.

Christmas Day (December 25th) is a time for more relaxed family gatherings. Many people enjoy church services, leftovers from the night before and visiting family and friends. 

The day after Christmas is known as St. Stephen's Day in Austria. This is a public holiday and many spend it with family and friends enjoying the outdoors.

The Christmas song Silent Night or Stille Nacht has a big tradition in Austria as it was written here. The story goes that Joseph Mohr, a priest, went out one Christmas night to bless a newborn baby. On his way home, he was overcome by the stillness and beauty of the snowy night so he wrote a poem about it. He later gave the poem to Franz Gruber, his church organist, who quickly composed a tune. On Christmas Eve of 1818, accompanied only by a guitar, the carol was sung for the first time in a village church. It has since become a beloved Christmas song in Austria and throughout the world.

Winter Activities and Experiences

Austria offers incredible winter experiences to be enjoyed during the Christmas holidays. There is a good chance you will be able to experience a white Christmas, giving many opportunities for winter activities. Austria has world-class Alpine skiing with famous ski resorts in Tyrol and Salzburg providing exceptional winter sports opportunities. There is over 7,000 kilometers of perfectly groomed slopes catering to every skill level – from gentle beginner runs to challenging black diamond trails that test even the most experienced athletes. Beyond downhill skiing, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing through pristine snow-covered forests, snowboarding in cutting-edge terrain parks, and even heli-skiing for those seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush. The infrastructure is world-class, with modern lifts, well-maintained trails, and ski schools that offer top-notch instruction for all ages and abilities.

Horse-drawn sleigh rides or carriage rides are often available in the town centre. A traditional carriage ride through snow-covered landscapes offers a romantic holiday experience. Outdoor and indoor skating rinks are found in most major cities, with Vienna's town hall square featuring a particularly magical skating experience.  Adventurous travelers can try snowshoeing through silent forests, participate in winter hiking trails, or experience the thrill of ice climbing in the Alpine regions. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, thermal spas in mountain towns provide a perfect retreat, offering warm mineral baths and wellness treatments that contrast beautifully with the crisp winter environment. 

The holiday season in Austria is full of magic, tradition, food and family. The Christmas celebrations bring a wonderful festive feeling to the whole country. Celebrate the Christmas season by shopping at some of the best Christmas markets, attending midnight mass on Christmas Eve or skiing some of the most spectacular slopes in Europe. Any way you spend your time, you will love Christmas in Austria.

Ready to travel to Austria? Contact me at stefanie@eurotravelsbydesign.com or schedule a call here and I will custom create the perfect itinerary for you.