Advent & Christmas in and around Salzburg

Advent & Christmas in and around Salzburg

Shhh! This is a quiet time of year! The Advent and Christmas seasons are particularly meaningful in the Salzburg region. Whether you are alone, as a couple, or with the family, a visit during this season offers you the chance to enjoy this year-end time by visiting the Christkindl Christmas markets.

In the villages around Salzburg, nostalgic Christmas markets are a cherished tradition.

St. Leonhard Advent Market

Hand-carved nativity figures, Christmas ornaments, ceramics, children’s toys, traditional fruit bread (Kletzenbrot), cookbooks with images from the most beautiful corners of Austria, mulled wine, punch, roasted chestnuts – at the stalls of the Advent market you’ll find Christmas gifts for your loved ones, festive decorations for your home, and delicious homemade treats for yourself.

And the best part: All proceeds go to the Lebenshilfe organization supporting people with disabilities.

Pre-Christmas Events at the St. Leonhard Advent Market

• Advent celebrations, traditional brass music from the church tower, and festively arranged church services at the St. Leonhard Pilgrimage Church near Grödig – this year accompanied by vocal and instrumental groups from Salzburg, Carinthia, and Bavaria.
• Christmas Bakery for Children
  In the Advent bakery, your little ones can bake cookies and roast apples with a bit of help – a fun and festive activity for the whole family.

The History of the St. Leonhard Advent Market

In 1973, Prof. Dr. Franz Nikolasch had the idea to organize an Advent market in front of St. Leonhard’s Church. Since then, around 300 volunteers from Salzburg, Grödig, and the surrounding area come together every year to make this market possible – all in support of Lebenshilfe, an organization for people with disabilities.

Opening Hours of the Advent Market:

• Saturdays: 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM

• Sundays and on December 8th: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM

For more information: www.advent-groedig.com

A Hidden Gem Among Advent Markets: The Farmers’ Advent at the Glanegg Estate

The traditional Farmers' Market held in the historic Glanegg estate near the castle offers a truly special atmosphere. With its rustic charm and unique location, this market is a real insider tip for those seeking an authentic and cozy Advent experience.

What makes this market so exclusive is the carefully curated selection of local products:
From the Mayr-Melnhof estate, you’ll find specialties like venison ham, wild game sausages, wild boar and roe deer sausages, as well as fresh cuts of wild game meat. Local farmers offer homemade jams, schnapps, Christmas cookies, and freshly fried Bauernkrapfen (traditional Austrian pastries). There are also high-quality handcrafted items made from wood, glass, ceramics, and textiles – perfect for unique Christmas gifts.

Warm up by a romantic wood fire while sipping mulled wine or punch, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Horse-drawn carriage rides at the foot of the mountain add a magical touch, and even Saint Nicholas and Krampus make appearances during the Glanegg Advent.

This market is truly something special – small but charming, and full of heart. Don't miss the chance to soak in this unforgettable Christmas spirit!

For more information: www.advent-groedig.com