Advent markets
in 360° Alpenland
Customs, Christmas markets & quiet moments
Glittering lights, crafts and anticipation in the heart of Upper Austria
Between historic town squares and Alpine traditions: 360° Alpenland is home to many of the most atmospheric Advent markets in Upper Austria: whether in the Christkindlstadt Steyr, Kirchdorf an der Krems and Bad Hall or at the Pyhrn-Priel Bergadvent in the south of the region.
Arts and crafts, regional specialities, the Steyr nativity scene and living UNESCO cultural heritage make Advent here particularly authentic. Short distances combine old town flair, spa park atmosphere and wintry mountain scenery to create a harmonious experience.
Steyr - Where the Christ Child is at home
Steyr has borne the name Christkindlstadt for 40 years and becomes the atmospheric centre of Christmas events during Advent. Around the town square, the Advent village, Christmas market in the Promenadenallee and arts and crafts in Lamberg Castle invite you to stroll around. Many places are easily accessible on foot, supplemented by the vintage bus and Steyrtal museum railway to the Advent calendar village of Steinbach an der Steyr.
Mountain Advent between Pyhrn and Priel
Further south, the Pyhrn-Priel Mountain Advent lights up the Advent weekends in the villages of the region. Between snow-covered peaks, traditions that have been passed down for generations come to life. An annual fixture is the musical Advent in the Stiftshof in Spital am Pyhrn or the Niglo parade in Windischgarsten.
Bad Hall & Kirchdorf an der Krems
When everyday life becomes quieter, Bad Hall offers space to pause for a moment. After a soothing day at the spa, take a walk through the spa gardens to the Advent market or the forest nativity scene. Charming Advent markets with arts and crafts, music, flea markets and Krampus games are also held in the neighbouring villages and around Kirchdorf an der Krems.
Frequently asked questions about the Advent markets in 360° Alpenland:
In 360° Alpenland, the Advent markets are spread from the historic centre of Steyr via Bad Hall to the villages between Pyhrn and Priel. Historic squares, courtyards and small village centres become a stage for arts and crafts, regional specialities and musical performances. Each market bears the signature of its location - from urban to alpine.
Most Advent markets in the Alps start at the end of November and run throughout the Advent season until shortly before Christmas. Many open at weekends, some also during the week. This makes it easy to combine a visit with a stroll through the town, a visit to the thermal baths or a winter hike.
Steyr is one of the most atmospheric Advent destinations in Upper Austria. The historic town square, where town houses from different eras are lined up next to each other, creates an atmosphere that combines architecture and tradition. The scent of punch fills the air, choirs sing between the town hall and churches - and the River Enns reflects the light from the stalls.
In addition to the larger markets, numerous smaller Advent events take place in 360° Alpenland - in parish courtyards, on farms or in monastery courtyards. Regional producers, craftspeople and associations take centre stage here. Conversations arise by themselves, many things are handmade, some have been cultivated for generations.
Many Advent markets offer programmes for children - from a visit from Father Christmas to small workshops. In Steyr, the Steyrer Kripperl tells humorous scenes from times gone by. The small squares and clearly structured markets make a visit relaxed, even with children.
Wind bands, church choirs and parlour music are an integral part of Advent markets in Upper Austria. Many performances take place without a large stage - in the middle of the square, among the people. Music is not consumed here, but shared.
Night watchman tours in Steyr, concerts in churches and traditional events in the south of the region complement the markets. They provide insights into history and living tradition - from old crafts to regional rituals.