Kitzbüheler Advent

The Kitzbüheler Advent transforms Kitzbühel's medieval Hinterstadt and charming Stadtpark into a festive wonderland each winter, drawing visitors with its deeply rooted Tyrolean traditions and intimate alpine atmosphere. Set against the backdrop of the town's colorful 750-year-old historic facades, this market stands out for its authentic character and strong community spirit. Spread across approximately 36 lovingly decorated stalls, the Kitzbüheler Advent market runs Wednesday through Sunday from mid-November through December 26th, with hours typically from 14:00 to 20:00, and special extended hours on Christmas Eve morning. Nearly 50 vendors bring the market to life each year, offering regional delicacies like hot roasted chestnuts, fruit punch, and mulled wine served in specially designed Advent cups — including the local specialty Glüh-Uhudler. Visitors can browse traditional handicrafts from local artisans such as Drechslerstube Hauser's precision woodturning and Vitus Rieder's hand-felted wool slippers, with many craftspeople demonstrating their skills on-site. The market's programming is equally rich: local choirs and music groups perform throughout the season, while the renowned Wiltener Sängerknaben boys' choir typically headlines a special concert weekend in early December. Children are well catered for with a historic carousel (free on Saturdays thanks to local sponsors), a Kinderbastelalm craft workshop, Christmas story readings, and the beloved Christkindl post office — located by a carriage in the courtyard of the district administration building — where kids can mail their wish lists directly to the Christ Child. The St. Nicholas parade on December 6th, followed by a Krampus procession through the Vorderstadt, is a highlight not to be missed. Arrive on a weekday evening for a quieter, more contemplative experience of this traditional Tyrolean Christmas market.