Uncover the unique and lesser-known Advent events in Vienna. Experience the city’s festive spirit in a whole new way this season!
Looking for ways to immerse yourself in the joyous spirit of Vienna during Advent, apart from the Christmas Market offer?
During Advent, Vienna transforms into a wonderland of joy and celebration. We have rounded up eight unique Vienna Advent Events to help you usher in the 1st Advent weekend in 2023.
Our selection reflects a kaleidoscope of enchanting experiences waiting to be explored. Each one is a jewel in the city’s festive crown, offering a distinct flavor of the season. These events are more than the usual holiday fare; they are thoughtfully designed experiences meant to captivate your senses and ignite your festive spirit.
Additionally, we have included two exclusive tips for the 3rd Advent weekend. Make sure to mark your calendars and get ready to feel Vienna’s yuletide spirit. (They are at the bottom of our post.)
Prepare yourself for an adventure into the heart of Vienna’s festive season. Embark with us on this joyful exploration and experience the magic of Vienna, one extraordinary event at a time!
1. Experience the Enchantment of the Vienna Boys’ Choir at the “GUTE HIRTEN” Concert
Stellar Performances: Enjoy the Vienna Boys’ Choir’s angelic voices, Chorus Juventus, and the Schubert-Akademie Orchestra.
Classical Masterpieces: Relish in the sounds of Bach, Haydn, Herbeck, and Gruber, including a participative rendition of “Stille Nacht” (Silent Night).
Artistic Excellence: Under the direction of conductor Jimmy Chiang and creative director Gerald Wirth, the concert promises a night of exceptional musicality.
Christmas Theme: Celebrate the season with a focus on the role of shepherds in the nativity story, a unique angle for a holiday concert.
Plan Your Visit:
Additional Dates: Can’t make it on the 21st? Choose from other performances on December 1, 2, 19, and 20.
Tickets: Ranging from €14.00 to €80.00, with special rates for young audiences under 26.
Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a breathtaking performance by the Vienna Boys’ Choir, a perfect addition to your Advent celebrations in Vienna!
2. Step into a Fairy-Tale World at “Winterwonderland Wien” in Schönbrunn Palace
Make your Advent weekend in Vienna unforgettable by visiting the magical Winterwonderland Wien at the Kronprinzengarten of Schönbrunn Palace. Running from November 15, 2023, to January 7, 2024, this event transforms the palace gardens into a dazzling winter spectacle, perfect for family outings and romantic evenings.
Enchanting Displays: Be captivated by luminous motifs, interactive elements, and an awe-inspiring projection show.
Magical Light Tunnel: Walk through themed displays like the hunting garden, glowing bees, and spots reminiscent of Sissi and Franz’s romance.
Festive Gastronomy: Savor hot drinks and snacks next to the renowned Schönbrunn Palace Christmas market.
Spectacular Mapping Show: Witness a new projection mapping show on the palace facade.
Practical Information:
Open Hours: 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, with the last entry at 9:00 pm (Closed on December 24).
Tickets: Available at infolumagica.com and via the Öticket hotline. Various ticket options, including family tickets.
3. Experience the Magic of Fairy Tales at the Hirschstetten Flower Gardens Christmas Exhibition and Market
Step into a festive fairy tale at the Hirschstetten Flower Gardens in Vienna this weekend. From November 23 to December 23, the gardens transform into a ‘Christmas Fairy Tales wonderland, bringing to life stories like Dickens’ ‘Christmas Story’ and the Brothers Grimm’s ‘Frau Holle.’
Fairy Tale Exhibition: Explore nine enchanting fairy tales through beautiful floral arrangements.
Advent Market Extravaganza: Wander through over 50 stalls offering everything from gingerbread to handmade toys and unique ceramics.
Fun for Kids: Let your little ones unleash their creativity by making Christmas decorations with city gardeners.
Planning Your Visit:
Open Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 10 am to 8 pm.
Access Tips: With construction limiting car access, use public transport or the North (Oberfeldgasse) or West (Spargelfeldstraße 22) entrances for a smoother visit.
Take advantage of this unique blend of Christmas spirit and fairy tale charm, perfect for adding a touch of romance and adventure to your Vienna Advent weekend!
4. Austria’s Largest Light Garden
Celebrate Advent in Vienna with a Magical Evening at Illumina – Austria’s Largest Light Garden
This weekend, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of lights at the Illumina – Magischer Lichtergarten in Schlosspark Laxenburg. This year, the event is grander than ever with the addition of international light artists, transforming the 3-kilometer trail into a mesmerizing spectacle of lights and sounds.
Take advantage of this stunning display of art and light in one of Austria’s most beautiful parks. It’s the perfect way to add sparkle to your Advent celebrations in Vienna this weekend!
5. Discover the Charm of The Alm Advent Festival 2023 in Vienna
Add a touch of Alpine magic to your Advent celebration this weekend at the Alm Advent Festival 2023, running from November 23 to December 22 at Messevorplatz, 1020 Wien. With free entry, this festival is a must-visit for those looking to experience the festive spirit in a unique setting.
Festive Opening: Be part of the grand opening on November 23 at 5:00 pm in the Eventdorf.
Musical Delight: Enjoy the renowned Maya Hakvoort concert on November 26 from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm in the Fest Stubn.
Spectacular Show: Experience the thrill of a Fire and Pyrotechnics Show on November 26 at 5:30 pm in the Familiendorf.
Cozy Reading Session: Join Peter Meissner for reading and songs on November 27 at 6:00 pm in the Winzer Stubn.
Why Visit?
Themed Villages: Explore charming themed villages like Familiendorf (family village), Geschenkedorf (gift village), Genussdorf (delicious village), and Eventdorf (event village).
Festive Atmosphere: Perfect for families, couples, and friends looking for a unique way to enjoy the Advent season.
Event Details:
Location: Messevorplatz, 1020 Vienna
More information here: https://www.almadvent.at/
Immerse yourself in the festive and heartwarming atmosphere of the Alm Advent Festival in Vienna this weekend.
6. Advent with Local Folk Music
Join the Festive Fun at “1 Wiener Winter Wiesn” in Vienna
This weekend, immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Vienna at the “1 Wiener Winter Wiesn.” From December 1 to 16, 2023, experience a unique pre-Christmas party that combines tradition, customs, and electrifying entertainment under the theme “Weihnacht in der Tracht.” (Christmas in traditional folkloric dress)
Exciting Live Music: Enjoy three hours of local folk music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
DJ Party Nights: Dance the night away with sessions from top local DJs following the live performances.
Special Christmas Concert: Mark your calendar for the special concert featuring “Edlseer und Freunde” on December 13.
Delicious Culinary Delights: Indulge in the sumptuous offerings the festival host provides.
Event Details:
Location: The heated festival tent at Messehalle A3, Messeplatz 1, 1020 Wien.
Hours: Parties from 6:00 pm to 4:00 am.
Get your tickets now for a unique pre-Christmas experience at Vienna’s 1 Wiener Winter Wiesn, where partying meets tradition in a spectacular setting!
7. Explore the Enchanting World of Snow Globes in Vienna
This Advent weekend, delve into a unique piece of Viennese history by visiting the Original Viennese Snow Globe Museum. Discover the magic of the first snow globe, created in 1900 near Schönbrunn in Vienna by Erwin Perzy I.
Historical Charm: See the inaugural design of the Basilica of Maria Zell with snow made of ground rice.
Exclusive Insights: Learn about snow globe production and view unique designs in a 50-square-meter museum.
Unique Souvenirs: Choose from popular products like the red high-heeled shoe globe or the whimsical toilet paper globe.
Experience Handcrafted Tradition:
Since 1900, these snow globes have been lovingly handcrafted in Vienna’s 17th district, maintaining a tradition of craftsmanship and creativity.
Interested in something more personalized? The family business specializes in custom designs, offering alternative fillings to traditional white snow.
Details:
Location: Schumanngasse 87, 1170 Vienna
Dates: The Museum and shop open daily from 9:00–18:00 during the November 27 — 3oth December
Take advantage of this opportunity to step into a world of whimsy and wonder and take home a unique piece of Viennese heritage, perfect for commemorating your Advent weekend in Vienna.
Bonus Tip
Save The Date for These Unique Events in December
Join the Festive Austrian Christmas Cookie Baking Workshop in Vienna
On the 3rd Advent weekend, immerse yourself in a delightful culinary experience with the Austrian Christmas Cookie Baking Workshop in Vienna on December 15, 2023. Organized by CLUB MELANGE for Expats and Angelika Brenner Cecerle, this event is a perfect blend of tradition and multicultural camaraderie.
Ideal for internationals and expats in Vienna, this workshop offers a warm introduction to local Christmas traditions in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Join Club Melange for Expats for a day of baking, laughter, and cultural exchange!
Join CLUB MELANGE for a Traditional Christmas Tree Cutting Experience in Vienna
This weekend, embrace the festive season in Vienna with a unique adventure: a traditional Christmas tree cutting event on December 15, organized by Angelika Brenner Cecerle and CLUB MELANGEfor Expats.
This event is more than just picking a tree; it’s a chance to engage in Vienna’s Advent traditions and enjoy a day of festive fun. Part of CLUB MELANGE for Expats‘ diverse activities in Vienna, this experience is ideal for those who love the outdoors and holiday cheer.
Don’t miss out on this quintessential Vienna Christmas experience. Book your spot now and get ready to select your perfect Christmas tree!
Stay Connected with Vienna’s Advent Celebrations: Subscribe to The Multicultural
As you immerse yourself in the enchanting Advent events of Vienna, let your journey of discovery continue with The Multicultural, our newsletter dedicated to celebrating the diverse cultural tapestry of Vienna and beyond. If our guide to Vienna’s unique Advent treasures has sparked your interest, you’ll love what The Multicultural offers.
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Thank you for exploring Vienna’s Advent season with us, and we can’t wait to share more enthralling experiences and cultural insights with you through The Multicultural.
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