Tradition, craftsmanship and contemplation in the unique ambience of the Benedictine monastery
The popular „Advent at Admont Abbey“, known far beyond the borders of the region, is celebrating its 26th edition this year - and with a very special premiere: for the first time, the atmospheric Advent market opens its doors on two weekends and invites visitors to enjoy an unforgettable Advent experience in the historic Benedictine Abbey of Admont over six days.
With over 100 exhibitors from all over Austria and neighbouring countries, „Advent im Stift Admont“ is one of the largest and most beautiful Advent markets in Styria. Lovingly designed handicrafts, traditional arts and crafts, creative gift ideas and regional specialities ensure an authentic and varied offering - perfect for getting in the mood for the most contemplative time of the year.
„We are very pleased about the great interest - we are already receiving numerous enquiries from coach companies from home and abroad for both event weekends,“ reports Silvia Schnepfleitner, coordinator of the Advent market at Admont Abbey. „This once again confirms the special status that our Advent market now enjoys.“
Younger visitors are also catered for with a lot of heart: in the popular Christkindl post office, children can write their own personal Christmas wishes to the Christkind. And the best thing is that every letter is answered personally by the Christ Child!
The museum workshop at Admont Abbey also offers a great supporting programme for children, where they can make, paint and do handicrafts. This makes the Advent market an experience for the whole family.
The Advent market has now become a fixed meeting point throughout the year - whether for class reunions, family or friend gatherings, many visitors come from far and wide to meet up again and enjoy the special atmosphere together.
A great musical programme ensures a festive atmosphere on all days of the event: brass bands and regional music groups create a special Advent atmosphere with their sounds. The musical highlights include the Christmas concert by the queen of the pan flute - Daniela dé Santos - in the Collegiate Church, the Christmas concert by the Admont/Hall Music Society and the festive Advent concert by the Styrian Military Band in the Great Festival Hall. These concerts invite you to experience Advent in its most beautiful musical form. The church services in the collegiate church are also always accompanied by very dignified music.
Advent as a time of reflection, encounters and faith
„For us Christians, Advent is a time of expectation and preparation for Christmas - the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, who brings light into our world,“ emphasises Abbot Gerhard Hafner from the Benedictine Abbey of Admont.
„Especially in these often hectic times, we want to offer people here at the monastery a place where they can come to rest and recharge their batteries. The Advent market is not just a place for shopping and meeting people, but above all a place of togetherness, joy and peace. Amidst all the lights, scents and sounds, we would like to remind you what Advent is really about: waiting for the light that has become human in Christ. Advent at Admont Abbey is a place where tradition, faith and community come together in a wonderful way - and that is exactly what makes it so unique.“
Abbot Gerhard Hafner warmly invites all visitors to experience the special atmosphere of the monastery spiritually: „I would like to invite all guests to take part in our church services and celebrate the deeper meaning of this special time together with us.“
Significance for tourism and the region
Mario Brandmüller, Head of Culture, Tourism and Communication at Admont Abbey, also emphasises the importance of the event for regional tourism:
„The Advent market at Admont Abbey - now extended to 6 days - has become an integral part of the regional calendar of events in December. It is an important stimulus for tourism and regional added value: the hotel industry, catering trade and all our stallholders benefit equally from the many visitors who come from near and far every year. Advent at Admont Abbey combines culture, crafts, culinary delights and hospitality in a very special way.“
With its unique combination of tradition, spirituality, culture and festive atmosphere, „Advent at Admont Abbey“ offers much more than a classic Christmas market: it is a place to meet, pause and enjoy - for the whole family.
