7 Austrian Christmas Traditions You Need To Know

Christmas is a magical time of the year, especially in Austria, where festive traditions and customs are an integral part of the holiday season. From twinkling Christmas markets to sweet treats and solemn church services, Austria's Christmas traditions are steeped in history and culture. In this article, we'll delve into 7 Austrian Christmas traditions you need to know, highlighting the unique characteristics and fascinating stories behind each one.

1. Christkindlmarkts: Austria's Festive Christmas Markets

Austrian Christmas markets, or Christkindlmarkts, are a beloved tradition that dates back to the 14th century. These festive markets offer a wide range of handmade crafts, decorations, and local delicacies, such as glühwein, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts. Visitors can browse through the stalls, enjoy the cozy atmosphere, and soak up the holiday spirit. Vienna's Christkindlmarkt in front of the City Hall is one of the most famous and popular markets in the country.

Must-try Treats at Christkindlmarkts

• Glühwein (mulled wine)
• Gingerbread (Lebkuchen)
• Roasted chestnuts (Maroni)
• Austrian apple strudel (Apfelstrudel)

2. The Legend of the Christkind: Austria's Christmas Gift-Bringer

In Austria, the Christkind (Christ Child) is the traditional gift-bringer, not Santa Claus. According to legend, the Christkind is a golden-haired, winged angel who brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve. This tradition dates back to the 16th century and is still widely practiced today. Children write letters to the Christkind and leave their shoes outside the door, hoping to receive small gifts and treats.

Interesting Facts about the Christkind

• The Christkind is often depicted as a golden-haired, winged angel.
• Children leave their shoes outside the door on Christmas Eve, hoping to receive gifts.
• The Christkind is said to bring gifts to children on Christmas Eve, not Christmas Day.

3. Austrian Christmas Cookies: A Sweet Tradition

Austrian Christmas cookies, or Weihnachtsplätzchen, are a beloved tradition that dates back centuries. These sweet treats are typically baked in the weeks leading up to Christmas and are made with a variety of ingredients, such as nuts, spices, and dried fruits. Popular types of Austrian Christmas cookies include Vanillekipferl, Spritzgebäck, and Linzer Augen.

Popular Types of Austrian Christmas Cookies

• Vanillekipferl (vanilla crescents)
• Spritzgebäck (butter cookies)
• Linzer Augen (Linzer eyes)

4. Midnight Mass: A Solemn Christmas Tradition

Midnight Mass, or Christmette, is a solemn Christmas tradition in Austria that dates back to the 4th century. This special church service takes place on Christmas Eve at midnight and is a time for reflection, prayer, and celebration. Many churches in Austria hold Midnight Mass, which is often accompanied by traditional Christmas carols and hymns.

Interesting Facts about Midnight Mass

• Midnight Mass is a tradition that dates back to the 4th century.
• The service takes place at midnight on Christmas Eve.
• Many churches in Austria hold Midnight Mass, often accompanied by traditional Christmas carols.

5. Austrian Christmas Carols: A Musical Tradition

Austrian Christmas carols, or Weihnachtslieder, are an integral part of the country's holiday traditions. Many traditional carols, such as "Stille Nacht" (Silent Night) and "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen" (A Rose Has Sprung Up), are still widely sung today. These carols are often performed by choirs and soloists during Midnight Mass and other Christmas events.

Popular Austrian Christmas Carols

• "Stille Nacht" (Silent Night)
• "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen" (A Rose Has Sprung Up)
• "O Tannenbaum" (O Christmas Tree)

6. The Christmas Tree: A Beloved Austrian Tradition

The Christmas tree, or Weihnachtsbaum, is a beloved Austrian tradition that dates back to the 16th century. The evergreen fir tree is typically decorated with candles, ornaments, and lights, symbolizing life and hope during the dark winter months. Many Austrian families set up their Christmas tree on Christmas Eve, often accompanied by traditional cookies and mulled wine.

Interesting Facts about the Austrian Christmas Tree

• The Christmas tree tradition dates back to the 16th century.
• The tree is typically decorated with candles, ornaments, and lights.
• Many Austrian families set up their Christmas tree on Christmas Eve.

7. New Year's Eve: A Time for Reflection and Celebration

New Year's Eve, or Silvester, is a time for reflection and celebration in Austria. Many people attend special church services, often accompanied by traditional music and hymns. The evening is typically spent with family and friends, enjoying traditional foods and drinks, such as Wiener Würstel (Viennese sausages) and Sektkellern (sparkling wine).

Traditional Austrian New Year's Eve Foods

• Wiener Würstel (Viennese sausages)
• Sektkellern (sparkling wine)
• Vorspeisen (appetizers)

As the holiday season comes to a close, we hope you've enjoyed learning about these 7 Austrian Christmas traditions. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply looking for new ideas to make your holiday season more special, Austria's Christmas traditions have something to offer. So why not try baking some Austrian Christmas cookies, singing traditional carols, or attending a Midnight Mass service? Whatever you choose, we wish you a wonderful holiday season!