Christmas in Austria: a monster Krampus, mulled wine, and marzipan pigs
Christmas in Austria: a monster Krampus, mulled wine, and marzipan pigs
Christmas in Austria is nothing short of magical. It’s a time when towns transform into glittering winter wonderlands, streets glow with festive lights, and the smell of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air. Whether you’re exploring cozy Christmas markets, admiring beautifully decorated nativity scenes, or just enjoying the warmth of a family gathering, the holiday season in Austria has something for everyone.
How long does Christmas last in Austria?
Christmas in Austria is more than just a single day. While Christmas Eve (Heiliger Abend) on December 24 and Christmas Day(Weihnachten) on December 25 are the main celebrations, the festivities stretch out for weeks.
The season officially begins with Advent, which starts four Sundays before Christmas. Advent is a time of preparation and excitement, marked by traditions like lighting candles on an Advent wreath and opening daily surprises in an Advent calendar. The first Christmas markets even open in mid-November, giving visitors plenty of time to soak in the holiday cheer.
After Christmas, some markets stay open until January 6, transitioning into New Year’s fairs. This extended celebration gives everyone ample time to enjoy the beauty and traditions of the season.
Christmas for everyone: beyond religion
For many, Christmas in Austria is deeply tied to its Christian roots, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Yet the season’s magic goes beyond religion. Christmas is a time for family, joy, and community, whether you’re attending a church service or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Even the choice of date, December 24–25, is symbolic. It coincides with the winter solstice, when days begin to grow longer. This theme of light overcoming darkness resonates universally.
For those who aren’t religious, there’s no shortage of activities: drinking mulled wine (Glühwein), enjoying holiday treats, or strolling through streets adorned with twinkling Christmas decorations. The season is open to everyone, offering both reflection and merriment in equal measure.
Austrian Christmas traditions
Christmas in Austria is full of meaningful traditions that bring families together.
• The Advent Wreath: Most homes display an Advent wreath (Adventkranz) made of evergreen branches. Four candles are placed on the wreath, and one is lit each Sunday leading up to Christmas. This tradition symbolizes hope and light during the darkest time of the year.
• The Christmas Tree: Families in Austria decorate their Christmas trees (Weihnachtsbaum) on Christmas Eve, often using candles instead of electric lights for a warm, old-world glow.
• Silent Night: The famous carol “Silent Night” (Stille Nacht) originated in Austria and is often sung during Christmas Eve gatherings. Its simple melody and message of peace capture the essence of the holiday.
What to eat and drink
Food is an essential part of the Austrian Christmas experience. Here are some must-try treats:
• Mulled Wine (Glühwein): A hot, spiced wine perfect for warming up on cold evenings.
• Punsch: A fruity, alcoholic punch with endless flavor variations, including rum and orange.
• Lebkuchen: Traditional gingerbread cookies, often decorated with intricate icing.
• Bratapfel: Baked apples stuffed with nuts, raisins, and cinnamon.
On Christmas Eve, families gather for a festive meal. In some regions, the centerpiece is a roasted goose, while others serve carp, reflecting Austria’s mix of traditions.
The magic of Christmas markets
One of the highlights of the Christmas season in Austria is its stunning Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte). These beautifully decorated bazaars are brimming with festive charm. You’ll find stalls selling handmade ornaments, traditional foods, and hot drinks served in whimsical mugs, often shaped like boots or hearts.
Austria’s tradition of Christmas markets dates back centuries. The first one, called the December Market (Dezembermarkt), was held in Vienna in the 13th century as a place for locals to stock up on winter supplies. Over time, these markets evolved into the festive gatherings we know today.
Some of the most famous Christmas markets include:
• Vienna: The Rathausplatz Christmas Market offers a mix of tradition and grandeur, with over 150 stalls and a glowing Christmas tree.
• Salzburg: Known for its historic charm, markets like Residenzplatz and Hellbrunn Advent Magic draw visitors with stunning lights and live nativity scenes.
• Innsbruck: The market under the Golden Roof is a must-see, set against the snow-capped Alps.
Each market has its own unique atmosphere, but all share the same warmth and holiday spirit.
Who brings the gifts?
In Austria, it’s not Santa Claus but Christkind (the Christ Child) who delivers presents. Represented as a childlike angel, Christkind embodies the spirit of giving and care. Children often write wish lists (Wunschzettel) to Christkind, and on Christmas Eve, gifts magically appear under the tree.
That said, St. Nicholas (Nikolaus) also plays a role in Austrian Christmas traditions. On December 6, he visits children, rewarding the good ones with sweets and small gifts. But beware of Krampus, his frightening counterpart, who comes to scare misbehaving kids!
Why visit Austria during Christmas?
Austria is at its most beautiful during the Christmas season. The combination of snow-dusted landscapes, glowing lights, and festive traditions creates a magical atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.
If you’re planning a visit, the best time is between December 1 and 23, when the markets are in full swing. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are quieter, as most businesses close so families can celebrate together.
For a truly unforgettable experience, head to the Alps for a snowy backdrop, or explore smaller towns where the holiday spirit feels even more intimate.
Beyond Christmas: the holiday season in Austria
The festive season doesn’t end with Christmas. On December 31, Austrians celebrate New Year’s Eve (Silvester) with parties, fireworks, and lucky charms like marzipan pigs.
The season concludes on January 6 with Epiphany (Dreikönigstag), when carolers dressed as the Three Wise Men go door-to-door, spreading blessings for the year ahead.
Whether you’re sipping mulled wine at a Christmas market, admiring the glow of an Advent wreath, or singing along to “Silent Night”, Christmas in Austria is a time of warmth, joy, and connection. It’s a celebration of light, family, and tradition that welcomes everyone, no matter their background.
