“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
Salt Mine Experiences during the renovation work in Hallstatt: With the bus shuttle to the Altaussee Salt Mine
Mon, Mar. 16, 2026 00:00 Hallstatt bus terminal (district "Lahn"), Hallstatt
Try it out: Daily Salt tasting in Hallstatt
Mon, Mar. 16, 2026 10:00 — 18:00 Salt Shop Salt Mine Marketplace Hallstatt, Hallstatt
Special guided tour through the salt mine: The true "Monuments Men" in the Altaussee
Fri, Mar. 20, 2026 16:00 Altaussee salt mine, Altaussee
The most romantic place in the world: "Mountain Christmas Market " 2026 in Gosau
Sat, Nov. 28, 2026 11:00 — 18:00 Homeland museum Gosau, Gosau
Unforgettable holiday memory: Children's Krampus run on Hallstatt’s Market Square
Fri, Dec. 4, 2026 17:00 — 20:00 Market square Hallstatt and idyllic streets, Hallstatt
Krampus Run in Hallstatt 2026
Sat, Dec. 5, 2026 18:00 — 23:00 Market square Hallstatt and idyllic streets, Hallstatt
Goisern, ghouls, goosebumps: Salzkammergut Krampus Run 2026 - Highlight at Christmas time
Mon, Dec. 7, 2026 19:00 Marketplace Bad Goisern, Bad Goisern
Unique! Only on December 8th: Hallstatt Christmas Market 2026
Tue, Dec. 8, 2026 10:00 — 18:30 Market Square Hallstatt (Marktplatz Hallstatt), Hallstatt
Christmas anticipation between mountains and lakes
Events in winter
Enchanting and romantic pre-Christmas period, iconic start to the year or colourful ballooning mixed with numerous winter sports events. Winter Highlights from December to February at a glance.
Your Holiday Planner: Christmas & New Year events
Christmas in the mountains of the Salzkammergut. Attractive festive and New Year deals for Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, Gosau and Obertraun at a glance
Colourful through the night: "Glöckler runs" in the Salzkammergut - the first highlight of the year
"Glöckler runs" in the Salzkammergut are an old custom in which men and women dressed in white with illuminated light caps, which are artistically designed, parade through the villages. The events are a living example of traditional customs in the Salzkammergut. And you can be there live!
Simply magical: Christmas markets in the Salzkammergut
For many, the most beautiful time of the year - the pre-Christmas season with its numerous Christmas markets and Christmas markets. Sometimes outside, sometimes inside - but always inspiring and relaxing. Customs in the Salzkammergut from their most magical side. Come with us to the most beautiful Advent markets between craftsmanship and cuisine.
Eerily beautiful Christmas spectacle: Krampus runs in the Salzkammergut
Around 5 December, St. Nicholas Eve, numerous Krampus runs take place in the Salzkammergut. When the scary fellows in their artistic masks and fur costumes through the streets, visitors from near and far come to this event. Look forward to an extensive show program and much more. Krampus run in the Salzkammergut - just do it!
Filigree craftsmanship & unique customs: Nativity scene exhibitions in the Salzkammergut
The Salzkammergut is rich in traditions and customs, and nativity scenes are an important part of it. The exhibitions show the art of nativity scene building, which often has a long history in the region.
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.