ADVENT IN THE WIPPTAL VALLEY

When the cold season begins, the lights shine particularly bright and warm, because then it's Advent. In the Wipptal Valley, this time is celebrated with many customs and festivals. From the St. Nicholas procession to the baking of traditional Christmas cookies and Advent markets. 

The focus of Advent is on being together. The cozy atmosphere creates space for community and contemplation. People come together to celebrate Tyrolean Christmas traditions and enjoy time together. You won't find any hustle and bustle here - Advent in the Wipptal is quiet and contemplative.
The highlight is the Tyrolean Operetta Adventwhere the historic village center of Matrei is transformed into a pre-Christmas stage on two dates.
Various craft businesses open their doors to visitors, regional producers sell their products at stalls in the listed buildings and you can indulge in culinary delights. There are also musical performances at all the stands.
Various Advent events also take place in many other places in the Wipptal. Festive sounds of traditional Christmas carols can be heard in the churches, hikers can stroll through the village on a torch-lit hike and nature lovers can look forward to the many leisure activities such as skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeingand much more.

Horse-drawn carriage with angels between many visitors to the Operetta Advent | © Irene Rapp

Operetta Advent in the village center of Matrei

Every year, Matrei Advent is opened with the entry of the shepherds and angels. Christmas carols in the Heilig-Geist-Kirche and several musical performances in the Marktl provide a musical treat. Various craft businesses open their doors to visitors, regional producers sell their wares at stalls in the listed buildings and you will be well catered for with culinary delights.

Dates: Saturday 06.12.2025 & 20.12.2025

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Snow-covered mill village with huts, mills and the waterfall | © TVB Wipptal | Helena Beermeister

All events during Advent

From Advent singing to Advent markets and Tyrolean evenings. There's a lot going on in the Wipptal during Advent!

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Johannes Bitter

Weekly program in Advent

Enjoy the active pre-Christmas season in the Wipptal:

  • Torchlight hike
  • Pleasure triathlon
  • Alpaca hike
  • Delicacies from the farmers' wives, and much more.

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Useful things for your vacation