Adventmarkt St. Leonhard

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Untersberg mountain, the Adventmarkt St. Leonhard offers a peaceful retreat from Salzburg's bustling downtown Christmas markets. Since 1973, this charming market has wrapped itself around the historic St. Leonhard Pilgrimage Church, creating an atmosphere that is both festive and contemplative. What makes this market truly special is its charitable mission—all proceeds, exceeding €90,000 annually, benefit Lebenshilfe Salzburg, supporting people with disabilities throughout the region. The market showcases authentic craftsmanship from Austria, Bavaria, and South Tyrol, with hand-carved nativity figures, traditional wax candles, glass and straw Christmas decorations, ceramics, and quality textiles—all carefully curated without kitsch or mass-produced items. Visitors can warm up with Glühwein and punch while sampling traditional gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, and homemade cookies. The market's cultural program is exceptional, featuring Advent celebrations, brass band performances, and traditional Alpine singing groups performing in the pilgrimage church every Saturday and Sunday at 5 PM. These free concerts add a deeply spiritual dimension to the market experience. For families, children's bakery activities provide hands-on fun. Plan your visit for a Saturday or Sunday afternoon to experience both the market stalls and the enchanting musical performances in this authentically Austrian setting.