Those responsible at Admont Abbey are delighted to draw an extremely positive first balance: more than 7,000 visitors experienced the first Advent market weekend at Admont Benedictine Abbey - an impressive start to this year's Advent season.
In addition to many guests from the region, visitors travelled from Germany, Hungary, Croatia, France, Poland and Italy, creating an international atmosphere.
The „Advent at Admont Abbey“ is taking place for the 26th time this year - and for the first time on two Advent market weekends. Following the successful launch, the market will open its doors again from 12 to 14 December and invites you to enjoy an atmospheric Advent experience on a total of six event days.
With over 100 exhibitors from Austria and neighbouring countries, the market is one of the largest and most beautiful in Styria. High-quality arts and crafts, creative gifts and regional specialities delight the many visitors every year.
„We are overwhelmed by the huge interest - and we have already received numerous bus registrations for the coming weekend from home and abroad,“ reports Silvia Schnepfleitner, coordinator of the Advent market. „This shows just how important our Advent market has become.“
There are once again special highlights for families: In the Christkindl post office, children can send their wishes to the Christkind - and every letter will be answered. The museum workshop invites you to do handicrafts, colouring and crafts and transforms the market into a real family experience.
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.
Between 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.“
Great importance for regional tourism
For Mario Brandmüller, Head of Culture, Tourism and Communication, this success is a strong sign:
„The Advent market is an important driver for the region - and the large number of visitors shows how much this special atmosphere is appreciated.“
With its unique combination of tradition, spirituality, culture and hospitality, „Advent at Admont Abbey“ remains an incomparable experience - and once again invites you to marvel, linger and enjoy on the second weekend.
