Advent in South Tyrol

In South Tyrol, the old Advent customs are still very much alive; here, the Advent wreath has its firm place in the parlors, and gingerbread and cookies are usually still baked at home. The "Klöckeln," an archaic custom with possibly pagan roots, is still maintained, especially in the Sarntal valley, where the "Klöckelnächte" during Advent are very lively. Saint Nicholas also visits the children in South Tyrol on December 6th as always and brings them gifts. He is usually accompanied by angels and, of course, by the terrifying, chain-rattling Krampuses. In some places, there are actual Krampus runs of the masked devilish fellows.

It is also traditional at the South Tyrolean Christmas markets. The "Original South Tyrolean Christmas Markets" can be found in Bolzano, Merano, Bressanone, Brunico, and Vipiteno. In the atmospheric glow of lights with mulled wine and punch, the Christmas spirit arises. The range includes handicrafts and arts and crafts, Christmas tree ornaments made of glass or straw, toys, and hand-carved nativity scenes, as well as cookies, gingerbread, and Christmas bakery items. Brass ensembles and choirs contribute to the festive atmosphere with pre-Christmas music.

Glurns also has a beautiful, lovingly designed Christmas market. The "Glurnser Theatergruppe" there presents its own Advent play. In the Sarntal valley, we find the prime example of an unadulterated, typical village Christmas market. Here it is quiet and contemplative in the best sense; there are no mass-produced products and hardly any kitsch, but rather genuine Sarner specialties, regional craft products, and real folk music.

Enjoy the atmospheric Advent in South Tyrol, use the vacation to also make the first turns in the fresh snow or to go cross-country skiing in the magnificent winter landscape. Leave the hustle and bustle behind and treat yourself to wellness and relaxation instead. The longing for the original is a reason for many guests to spend the Advent season in South Tyrol. Here they find the smells and tastes and the old songs of childhood and may again look forward to Christmas like children.