Discover Vienna's Hidden Advent Treasures
Unique Events Not to Miss!
Our Favorite Unique Vienna Advent Events
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
This weekend, embrace the festive spirit of Advent in Vienna with the mesmerizing "GUTE HIRTEN" (The Good Shepards) concert on December 21, 2023, at 7:00 pm, featuring the world-renowned Vienna Boys' Choir at MuTh.
Why It's a Must-See:
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.
Details: more details here
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.
Why You Should Go:
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.'
Why You'll Love It:
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.
Highlights:
Spectacular Light and Sound Shows: Witness awe-inspiring light installations and sound projections.
International Talent: For the first time, global artists showcase their unique light creations.
Family-Friendly: Enjoy a special family day on Thursdays with discounts for two adults and up to three children.
Easy Access: Take advantage of the shuttle bus service from Vienna every Saturday for a convenient experience.
Event Details:
Dates: November 24, 2023, to February 11, 2024.
Opening Hours: Varying times from November 24 to February 11.
Tickets: Available online at www.lichtergarten.at.
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.
Exciting Highlights:
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)
Why You Can't-Miss It:
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.
Why Visit?
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 Events for Expats & Locals. This event is a perfect blend of tradition and multicultural camaraderie.
Why You Should Attend:
Master Austrian Baking: Learn to bake traditional cookies like Vanillekipferl, Rumkugerl, and Linzeraugen.
Expert Guidance: Receive hands-on instruction from an experienced pastry chef in a friendly, multicultural environment.
Create Your Own Treats: Have the joy of making and tasting your own Austrian sweet delights.
Unique Venue: The workshop will take place at the cozy Japanese Café Restaurant OKO Wien, followed by a delightful Japanese lunch and networking.
Event Details:
Time: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM CET.
Location: Alser Straße 19, 1090 Wien.
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 & The Multicultural for a day of baking, laughter, and cultural exchange!
Join CLUB MELANGE for a Traditional Christmas Tree Cutting Experience in Vienna
On December 15th, you can embrace the festive season in Vienna with a unique adventure: a traditional Christmas tree cutting event organized by CLUB MELANGE Events for Expats & Locals.
Event Highlights:
Choose Your Own Tree: Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas by selecting and cutting your own tree from a designated woodland area.
Cozy Atmosphere: After finding your perfect tree, enjoy hot drinks in a warm and friendly setting.
Prepare for the Outdoors: Remember to dress warmly and bring sturdy footwear and gloves for a comfortable experience.
Important Details:
Date: December 15, 2023
Time: 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM CET.
Location: Schottenhof 5 Amundsenstraße 1140 Wien
Limited Availability: The event is exclusive to just 40 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate atmosphere.
Timely Registration: Make sure to register by December 6th to secure your spot.
Cost: €30 per meter for your chosen tree and €9 for a tree stand, with drinks available for purchase.
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!
Hope to see you at one of the events!
