Grödiger Advent traditions

There are many legends dealing with the time before Christmas. For example, legend has it that during these damp nights, demonic beings roam about, and in order to ward them off, people often burn incense in their homes.

One of these nights, the unique Wild Hunt takes place in Grödig, where twelve eerie figures roam around and drive away misfortune from the houses. A more pleasant tradition is that of Saint Nicholas: according to the story, he was a kind bishop. Even today, Saint Nicholas distributes small gifts to well-behaved children - often accompanied by the fearsome Krampus figures, who are meant to admonish the not-so-well-behaved children. The traditional Christmas markets and Nativity plays are very idyllic. Not only in Grödig am Untersberg, but also in the many small villages and in the city of Salzburg, there is much to experience and admire during Advent.

Adventmärkte in Grödig

Christmas Market in St. Leonhard

Since 1973, the St. Leonhard Advent Market has been offering exquisite handicrafts from Austria, Bavaria, and South Tyrol. In addition, there are tasteful gifts made by numerous school and women's associations, as well as by people with disabilities. Visitors can find candles and wax products, woodcarvings (especially Nativity figures), Christmas decorations made of glass and straw, or ceramic items. Additionally, there are incense and cookbooks from various regions of Austria. With a musically arranged program, this market has everything that an Advent market needs.

The net proceeds from the St. Leonhard Advent Market go to the Lebenshilfe, an organization supporting people with disabilities. This amounts to over 90,000 euros annually. With these funds, various residential homes and workshops for people with disabilities throughout the state of Salzburg have been co-financed. In total, the Advent Market St. Leonhard has contributed three million euros to the Lebenshilfe.

Christmas Market Glanegg

The Glanegg Farmers' Advent has been taking place for over 25 years in the estate of the Mayr-Melnhof Castle in Glanegg. Unique handicrafts, fresh vanison, traditional local delicacies, and enchanting ambiance are what make the Glanegg Farmers' Advent special.

Opening Times 2023:

2., 3., 9., 10., 16. & 17.th of december from  2-6 o'clock pm

Krampus celebrations  in Grödig and St. Leonhard

There is much to experience and admire in Grödig at the Untersberg, as well as in Salzburg and the many surrounding villages.