The most beautiful time of the year is celebrated in Graz in a very special way. Advent in its most beautiful form, an experience for young and old. Here you can find all the info!
Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Advent in Graz and experience the Styrian capital at its most beautiful time of the year! In 2025, Graz city centre will once again be transformed into a magical Christmas wonderland, with dazzling lights, lovingly designed Advent markets and countless attractions to make your heart beat faster.
A look back at a magical season
Bright lights, the smell of punch and roasted almonds, sparkling children’s eyes – during Advent 2024, Graz was transformed into a true Christmas fairy tale. Atmospheric Christmas markets, a festively decorated old town and unforgettable moments made the Styrian capital a magical place of anticipation.
Advent in Graz is not only a highlight of the Christmas season, but also a valuable initiative to revitalise Graz’s city centre during the most important season for retailers. From contemplative concerts to sparkling art installations, the diverse programme attracts visitors from home and abroad.
The magic of Advent in Graz inspires millions of people every year. In 2024 alone, more than 1.86 million visitors flocked to the festively decorated streets of the old town from mid-November to Christmas Eve – impressive proof of the unique appeal of this special event.
Here you will find initial information about this year’s Advent markets, including all opening days and hours.
The festively decorated Christmas tree, the avenue of lights, arts and crafts, and culinary delicacies enchant visitors to the main square.
High-quality Advent huts offer exquisite punches and culinary delicacies that can be enjoyed in the four cosy lounge areas.
Back to the original meaning of Advent: contemplation, tranquillity, cosy get-togethers. The Advent market at the Eisernes Tor offers a place of return and reflection.
The oldest Christmas market in Graz is dedicated to rural traditions, showcasing Thuringian Christmas tree decorations and presenting products from Styrian gourmet regions.
In front of the Franciscan Church (Franziskanerkirche), children’s eyes light up at the sight of the carousel, nostalgic Ferris wheel, giant snowman and sweets, which sweeten the wait for the Christ Child.
The Styrian Arts and Crafts Initiative presents unusual gift ideas, while renowned Styrian restaurateurs serve only the best in the Joanneum Quarter.
Charming traditions and Styrian customs enchant visitors with local arts and crafts, communal Advent wreath making and visits from St. Nicholas and Krampus.
Punch and mulled wine stands offering unusual creations can be found here, as well as beautiful handicrafts and sweet treats such as homemade waffles.
Artisans offer handmade unique items and small series. Organic and regional specialities, live music and children’s workshops create a festive atmosphere.
Exhibitors from four continents showcase original gifts, woolen goods, winter textiles, Christmas decorations and handicrafts. Regional cuisine is also available.
Around the Steirerhütte, culinary delicacies, the largest painted Christmas tree bauble and a historic sleigh invite you to linger in a rustic atmosphere.
Experience a harmonious festival full of Christmas tradition and culture at Mariahilferplatz. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and treat yourself.
Sustainable, fairly produced and regional gifts, mulled wine and punch, Christmas cookies and apple strudel, waffles and tarte flambée: all lovingly homemade.
In an incomparable Christmas atmosphere, traditional Styrian culture combines with festive cheer to bring the magic of the Christmas season to life.
At the urban Christmas market with a view of the clock tower, atmospheric light projections, high-quality gourmet products and live music create a pre-Christmas atmosphere.
Look forward to lots of pre-Christmas sparkle and a wonderful Christmas atmosphere in our city centre!
Subject to change!
The Christmas lights give Graz city centre that special pre-Christmas atmosphere. Numerous squares and streets invite you to stop and marvel at the different designs. A particular highlight is the new lighting in Herrengasse.
From 20 November 2025
The ice crib in the historic Landhaushof is one of the classics of ‘Advent in Graz’ and inspires enthusiasm among Christmas lovers year after year – even worldwide. Renowned Finnish ice artist Kimmo Frosti and his international team of ice carvers transform over 33.3 tonnes of crystal-clear ice into a unique work of art. After dusk, the ice nativity scene is beautifully illuminated by atmospheric lighting.
From 29 November 2025, Landhaushof
Once again this year, a magnificent Christmas tree will light up Graz’s main square. Energie Graz is responsible for the festive splendour, decorating the tree with great attention to detail and over 25,000 sparkling lights in elaborate handcrafted work.
From 29 November 2025, Graz main square
A skating paradise right below the Schlossberg with a 3,000 m² ice rink located at the Landessportzentrum (State Sports Centre) on Jahngasse. The little ones can take their first steps on the ice with the popular penguins. There is always something going on here – you can hire skates, try curling, ice hockey and enjoy many events.
From 15 November 2025, State Sports Centre
The Advent slow train makes its way through the festive old town, inviting passengers of all ages on a journey of discovery. The festively decorated Advent tram from the Graz Tramway Museum is also on the move.
From 21 November 2025
Free travel* for everyone generally applies on all Saturdays during Advent. Thanks to the Old Town Tram**, travel in the city centre is free every day.
Saturdays during Advent: 29 November, 6 December, 13 December, 20 December 2025
*Applies to all public transport with 1- or 2-digit numbers in fare zone 101, + Schloßbergbahn, except night buses.
**Between Hauptplatz and Jakominiplatz plus 1 stop each way – information here!