Events in the winter - © Kraft

“Silent Night“ in the Salzkammergut

Do you know "Advent"?

In German-speaking countries like Austria, Switzerland and Germany, there is a very special time: "Advent". These are the days leading up to Christmas, or more specifically, the four weeks leading up to Christmas. A sign of this special time is the traditional Advent wreath. A round wreath of pine branches with four candles. Each Sunday a candle is lit until all candles are lit on the fourth Sunday of Advent. During the Advent season, the Salzkammergut shines not only in the warm glow of lights, but also with its authentic and down-to-earth traditions such as the numerous Christmas markets and the rustic Krampus runs. And thanks to an appearance by Oscar-winning actor Christoph Waltz on Jimmy Fallon's talk show, Krampus has even made it to America. This and much more is tradition at its best.

Hand in hand through the Christmas season

When the days start to get shorter and darkness sets over Lakes in the late afternoon, one of the most beautiful times of the year begins in the World Heritage town: the days before the Christmas. Then numerous windows are festively decorated, a gingerbread scent hangs in the air and the world-famous salt mining town dons its pre-Christmas dress. Then the whole region of the Salzkammergut shine in the lights and numerous stars illuminate the night. And when the market square with the life-sized crib and the festive Christmas tree gets dressed up - then it's time for Christmas!

Hallstatt in bright lights

If you have had enough of the same old offers at Christmas markets, when you can’t bear to hear "Last Christmas" anymore and want to experience something completely different, then the world-famous Hallstatt is the place to be - because only here there is a Christmas barbecue with chesnut beer, a scarily beautiful Krampus exhibition, wood and schnapps in an unusual combination, homemade “Holzknechtnockn” (a fried dumpling eaten sweet or savoury) and a homely atmosphere for a contemplative, down to earth and nature-related Advent.

At a glance

There is much to see, feel and discover. Below we have put together the most beautiful highlights. Be enchanted by our small but fine offers. See you in pre-Christmas. Merry Christmas!

The most beautiful events in the run-up to Christmas

Fri, May. 16, 2025 Salt mine (Salzwelten) Hallstatt, Salzbergstraße 1 Hallstatt

© Salzwelten AG

Sat, Nov. 29, 2025 13:00 — 19:00 Homeland museum Gosau, Gosau

Thu, Dec. 4, 2025 17:00 — 20:00 Market square Hallstatt and idyllic streets, Marktplatz Hallstatt

Kinder Krampuslauf Hallstatt

Sun, Dec. 7, 2025 13:00 — 20:00 Salzkammergut treetop path, Am Grünberg Gmunden

Sun, Dec. 7, 2025 19:00 Marketplace Bad Goisern, Marktplatz Bad Goisern

Mon, Dec. 8, 2025 10:00 — 18:30 Market Square Hallstatt (Marktplatz Hallstatt), Marktplatz Hallstatt

Wed, Dec. 24, 2025 16:00 Market Square Hallstatt (Marktplatz Hallstatt), Marktplatz Hallstatt

Wed, Dec. 24, 2025 16:15 Catholic church Obertraun, Obertraun Obertraun

Wed, Dec. 24, 2025 17:00 Churches, Bad Goisern

Salzkammergut Booking: The most beautiful accommodations at Christmas time

Hotels and accommodation providers in Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, Gosau and Obertraun offer the ideal room or apartment for your holidays, no matter what your tastes. Aside from establishments rated according to the international "star" scale, you will also find around Lake Hallstatt in Austria businesses that have been awarded two to four "edelweiss". The more flowers, the greater comforts you can expect. Whether you eventually find your cozy nest in an elegant 5-star luxury hotel, at comfortable guesthouse, a family-friendly apartment, or on a traditional farm, the choice is always entirely up to you.

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