Christmas Markets in Salzburg

It is the season for a romantic walk across the city's hilltops, affording a breathtaking view of the city's snow-covered roofs, domes and towers. After descending back down to the city, the merry bustle of the Salzburg Christmas market will fill you with a cosy, warm feeling. The smell of punch and toasted almonds, hot roasted chestnuts and freshly baked apples envelopes your nose; the vendors' gingerbread hearts, Nativity figures, Christmas tree ornaments, toys and warm pullovers are irresistible.

Salzburg Christmas Market
Salzburg's Christmas market, mentioned as far back as the 15th century, is located at the foot of the Hohensalzburg fortress and around the venerable Cathedral of Salzburg. Program of events such as choral singing in front of the Cathedral, "Turmblasen" (wind instruments) on Residenz Square each Saturday, Nativity exhibits in the Residenz courtyard, and much more can be experienced.
Where: On Cathedral and Residenz Square, in Salzburg's historic city centre.
When: 19 November - 26 December 2009
Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday: 10:00 a.m. - 08:30 p.m., Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m., Saturday & Holidays: 09:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m., Sunday: 09:00 a.m. - 08:30 p.m., 24 December: 09:00 a.m. - 03:00 p.m., 25 December: 11:00 a.m. - 06:00 p.m., 26 December: 11:00 a.m. - 06:00 p.m.
www.christkindlmarkt.co.at

Advent Magic in Hellbrunn
A courtyard, a path lined by torches and an oversized Advent calendar are part of the Magic of Advent. Romantic booths, tempting treats and pre-Christmas gift ideas add to the charming atmosphere. Children will enjoy a ride in a sled drawn by real reindeer. An exciting entertainment program between the orangery and the park will assure that Advent afternoons at Hellbrunn Palace are convivial.
Where: in the Hellbrunn courtyard
When: 19 November - 24 December 2009
Opening Hours: tba

Christmas Market on Mirabell Square
The Christmas market in front of Mirabell Palace has become a centre of attraction for young and old over the last few years. Culinary delicacies, mulled wine and the lovingly decorated stalls invite visitors to stop and browse. The centrally located Christmas market is easily accessed - directly across from the bus stop and parking garage and just a few minutes' walk from the train station.
Where: Mirabell Square, Goethestraße
When: 19 November - 24 December 2009
Opening Hours: Monday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00 p.m. - 08:00 p.m., Thursday: 09:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m., Saturday & Holidays: 09:00 a.m. - 09:00 p.m., Sunday: 09:00 a.m. - 08:30 p.m., 24 December: 09:00 a.m. - 03:00 p.m.,
www.weihnachtsmarkt-salzburg.at (German only)

Advent Market in the Sterngarten
A small, pre-Christmas haven is tucked between the buildings in the Sterngarten between Getreidegasse and Griesgasse: the "Stern Advent Markt". Far from the hustle and bustle, the market's unparalleled charm invites visitors to stroll along its booths. For the tenth time, traditional handicrafts can be admired and purchased in the artistic setting.
Where: in the courtyard of the Sternbräu, between Getreidegasse and Griesgasse
When: 21 November - 23 December 2009
Opening Hours: Sunday to Friday: 11:00 a.m. - 07:00 p.m., Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 07:00 p.m.
www.sternadvent.at (German only)

Advent Market St. Leonhard
The Advent market is located near the St. Leonhard Pilgrimage Church. Try out the traditional handicrafts gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, punch, children's bakery, and tasteful gifts. There is also an entertainment program with brass bands and Advent events.
Where: next to St. Leonhard Pilgrimage Church
When: 28 November - 20 December 2009
Opening Hours: Saturday: 2:00 p.m. - 07:00 p.m., Sunday & 8 December: 11:00 a.m. - 07:00 p.m.,
www.adventmarktsanktleonhard.at (German only)

Salzburg Advent Singing
Year after year nearly 200 participants on stage and behind the scenes of the Large Festival Hall make sure that Salzburg Advent Singing lives up to its outstanding reputation: an intimate, unforgettable event that has become a fixture on Salzburg's pre-Christmas program.
Where: scenic oratorio at the Great Festival Hall, Residenzplatz
When: 27 November - 13 December 2009
www.salzburgeradventsingen.at (German only)

Original Salzburger Advent
The program of the Original Salzburger Advent at St. Andrew's Church will take you on a contemplative journey back to the Christmas of your childhood. A memorable Advent experience for every generation with over one hundred performers. Lovingly staged and presented.
Where: St. Andrew's Church on Mirabell Square
When: 28 November - 13 December 2009
www.salzburgeradvent.at (German only)

Salzburg Advent Serenades
The wonderful surroundings and the festively decorated Gothic Hall create a special atmosphere, fitting the Salzburg Advent and Christmas Season. The program includes classical music, folk music as well as texts fitting the Advent and Christmas season. It comprises popular music and some less-known music.
Where: Gothic Hall in the St. Blaise's Church, next to the Civic Hospital
When: 27 November - 19 December 2009
www.adventserenaden.at (German only)

Krampus and Perchten (Wild Spirit) Runs 2009
This is a unique tradition and well worth an inclusion to your visit to Salzburg. The Krampus' are evil spirits who in the lead-up to Christmas scold all the children who have been bad. On the other hand, the Perchten are there to rid your home of evil. Both are represented as colourful characters in a street-parade fashion which is loads of fun for both young and old. There will be several "Krampus" and "Perchten" Runs in Salzburg before Christmas. For dates and more information go to www.salzburg.info.