Innsbruck, Austria Sparkles With Christmas Spirit
Innsbruck, located in the Tyrol and nestled within the Austrian Alps is embracing Christmas already.
Their advent calendar starts well before December: in fact, the Christmas markets in the old town and on the market square open their doors as early as November 15. The air is filled with the sound of trumpets, the magnificent Christmas tree appears tall and resplendent in front of the Golden Roof, and stalls start drawing visitors in with their unique gifts and delicious delicacies. Oversized giants and fairytale figures will take centre stage in the city’s ancient alleyways, using the surrounding buildings as their backdrop. Meanwhile, the Christmas festivities over on the market square have a family focus, with highlights including a nostalgic carousel, a puppet theatre and virtual coaches.
A fantastic array of festive fun
Christmas markets pop up across the city, each with their own distinctive character – like the St. Nikolaus market on the other side of the river Inn. This one is somewhat smaller and quieter than the others, making it all the more charming and ideal for anyone seeking a peaceful place to retreat to during the busy build-up to Christmas.
Meanwhile, the market at Wiltener Platzl offers an appealing mix of an alternative vibe, local food, sustainable products and live music performances. There is also the Panorama Market up on the Hungerburg above Innsbruck, where you will find handicrafts and tasty treats. But what makes this market truly special is the breathtaking view over the lit-up city below.
The splendid stalls on Maria-Theresien-Strasse sell decorative trinkets and all kinds of hand-crafted items. The signature giant baubles and trees adorned with fairy lights make an inviting impression. The historic Innsbruck Christkindlbahn tram also stops here every Friday and Saturday, spreading a little Christmas spirit just like it did in days gone by.
Theatrical treats and Christmas customs
Innsbruck’s advent calendar of local events has treats in store for the all the senses around December 6 – St. Nicholas’ Day. In Telfs, for example, the popular musical Scrooge is set to be staged for a second time, accompanied by a Victorian-themed Christmas market complete with authentic costumes, crafts and merry bands of carol singers straight out of a storybook. In Innsbruck’s old town, meanwhile, it’s time for the traditional East Tyrolean “Krampus” runs, when terrifying, devilish figures parade through the streets. They are followed by the much friendlier form of St. Nicholas, accompanied by a procession of angels and musicians as he makes his way to the cathedral. St. Nicholas can also be found at the Christmas markets around this time, often handing out a few surprises. On December 7, mystical winter creatures known as “Perchten” make their grand appearance on Maria-Theresien-Strasse. Legend has it that they have the power to drive away evil spirits. And the musical entertainment gets well and truly under way on December 14 with the Tyrolean Advent Singing event, where traditional festive folk songs conjure up an authentic and heart-warming atmosphere.
Magical moments
As we get closer to Christmas Day, the region really ramps up its festivities. On December 21, for example, the Christ Child himself makes a personal appearance in Innsbruck’s old town, joined by around 400 beaming children and a flock of sheep. Two days later, on December 23, Igls celebrates its “Christmas in the Mountains” in charming rural style by staging a live crib scene, complete with festive music, angels, shepherds and animals. To help make those final few hours pass until the big day itself, the Zeughaus (Museum at the Armoury) offers creative workshops and hands-on activities on December 24 as part of the “Rundum Weihnacht” Christmas family program. And with that, the Innsbruck region rounds off an Advent season filled with variety and festive cheer, and with big moments and little touches that will leave lasting memories.
Tip: don’t miss the spectacular finale
However, the festive fun doesn’t stop at Christmas: Innsbruck always sees out the year with its famous New Year’s Eve in the Mountains. This year’s diverse program includes everything from live concerts to children’s animations, not to mention a firework display from the Seegrube right up at 1,905 metres above sea level. Another highlight is the artistic façade illuminations, where prominent buildings and the river Inn glow in a captivating show of light. And if you want to kick off the new year in style, get yourself tickets for the traditional New Year concert by the Tyrolean Symphony Orchestra Innsbruck – the perfect prelude to 2026.
Festive LGBTQ+ bars
Raise a glass and connect with community at any of the vibrant and welcoming bars, inns and cafes in Innsbruck. For LGBTQ+ folks and welcoming ambience, check out Bacchus, a lively and energetic mixed bar and nightclub where you can dance the night away to the DJ’s tunes and the full spectrum of community.
There’s also the gay-owned Dom Cafe-Bar, a cozy venue open till 1am, located in a quiet side street. We love this spot’s old world vibe—think vaulted ceilings, chandeliers and club chairs! For cocktails and cheer, go to gay-friendly M+M Bar, just a stone’s throw from the charming streets of Old Town.
