Advent
Advent markets & experiences in 360° Alpenland
Between mountains, customs and glittering lights
When the first snow covers the peaks in the south and fairy lights begin to glow in the valleys, the mood changes. It gets quieter in the 360° Alpine region - colder outside, but all the warmer around the heart.
Advent here combines atmospheric Christmas markets, living customs, regional crafts and the tranquil magic of the mountains to create an authentic pre-Christmas season full of twinkling lights, tradition and nature experiences.
In the historic alleyways of Steyr, lights are reflected in old town houses. Kirchdorf an der Krems and Bad Hall get in the mood for Christmas with small, fine Advent markets, while in the mountains between Pyhrn and Priel, the customs are particularly tangible.
Discover atmospheric Advent in Upper Austria now:
Advent in the Alpine region shows all its diversity: Christmas comes to life in the Christkindl town of Steyr. The famous Christkindl post office, the atmospheric Christmas market, the Advent village on the town square and special highlights such as the 1st Austrian Christmas Museum and traditional nativity scene exhibitions make Steyr one of the most beautiful places in Austria for the pre-Christmas period.
In the Pyhrn-Priel, visitors to the Bergadvent can expect Advent days full of customs. The historic Niglou parade in Windischgarsten (UNESCO cultural heritage), atmospheric Advent markets in the valleys as well as regional craftsmanship and music events ensure authentic Advent experiences in Upper Austria.
Bad Hall also stands for a peaceful, enjoyable pre-Christmas period: the Advent market in the spa gardens, the atmospheric forest Christmas and relaxing moments in the Therme Mediterrana combine wellness in winter with a real Christmas spirit.
Advent markets & concerts
When historic squares are aglow with lights and festive concerts in churches, halls and on stages bring Advent to life, Christmas markets, music and living traditions merge into an atmospheric pre-Christmas season in the heart of Upper Austria.
Advent adventure tips in and around Steyr
Further Advent highlights in 360° Alpenland
Interesting facts about Advent in 360° Alpenland:
In 360° Alpenland in the heart of Upper Austria, Advent usually starts at the end of November. This is when the first Advent markets open in Steyr, Kirchdorf an der Krems, Bad Hall and in the mountains between Pyhrn and Priel. When historic facades light up and the first snow falls in the valleys, a time of culture, tradition and wintry nature begins.
The spectrum ranges from the markets on the historic town square in Steyr to smaller, fine Advent markets in Bad Hall and Kirchdorf an der Krems. In the south of the region, alpine markets and traditional events complete the offer. City life, tradition and mountain scenery are all within easy reach.
Steyr is one of the most atmospheric places for Advent in Upper Austria. Between Enns and Steyr, town houses from different eras line the streets, while nativity scene exhibitions, concerts and arts and crafts keep the cultural heritage alive. The combination of architecture, UNESCO-labelled crafts and music lends depth to Advent here.
Churches, halls and monasteries in the region open their doors for concerts during Advent. From classical choral works to regional folk music, a musical arc is created between city & culture and living tradition. Especially in Steyr, Bad Hall and around Schlierbach Abbey, music characterises the pre-Christmas period.
In the south of the region, Perchten and Krampus groups parade through the mountain villages between Pyhrn and Priel. The skilfully carved masks and the ringing of the bells symbolise old winter customs in Upper Austria. Visitors gain an insight into a tradition that is still upheld today by associations and village communities.
The Steyr nativity scene and various nativity scene exhibitions show how deeply rooted this craft is in the 360° Alpine country. Historical figures and contemporary works are presented in museums and exhibition rooms - a quiet antithesis to the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Thanks to its central location in Upper Austria, Steyr, Bad Hall and the mountain resorts are easily accessible. The distances between the town, spa town and mountain world remain manageable - ideal for a day trip or an Advent weekend.
Guided city walks through Steyr or themed tours in Bad Hall provide insights into architecture, crafts and customs. Historic places have a special effect, especially in the darker months of the year.
In 360° Alpenland, historic towns, alpine tradition and wintry nature lie close together. This combination makes Advent in Upper Austria particularly harmonious here - in the heart of Upper Austria, where the power of nature, culture and joie de vivre come together.