The medieval town of Rattenberg in Tyrol, Austria’s smallest city with just 400 inhabitants, transforms into one of the country’s most enchanting Christmas markets during the Advent weekends. Unlike the larger, more commercial Christmas markets with their bright artificial lights, the Rattenberg Christmas Market mirrors the tiny city’s quaint character: peaceful, contemplative, and returning to the essence of the season. The town largely avoids artificial lighting, instead illuminating the medieval streets with candles, torches, and open fires.
The Rattenberg Christmas Market offers a blend of cultural and musical experiences including traditional brass musicians (“Weisenbläser”), gospel choir performances, and evening concerts on the main stage. Cultural events feature Christmas storytellers (“Anklöpfler”), the search for shelter reenactment, and a magical Procession of Light Bearers. Visitors can enjoy guided Advent walks, children’s activities with a fairy tale path, museum exhibitions, and harp music with readings. A special Silent Advent day focuses on quiet contemplation rather than performances.
On Advent Saturdays (29 Nov, 6 Dec, and 13 Dec 2025), a special “Advent Bummelzug” (Christmas shuttle train) runs every 20 minutes between the Brixlegg Christmas market and Rattenberg, allowing visitors to visit both locations. Voluntary donations for charity are appreciated.
Unique Features
- Few traditional market stalls – instead, the town’s shops and famous glass art stores open their doors to showcase their products
- Local culinary delights and traditional Rattenberg Advent wine (Rattenberger Adventwein)
- Christmas brass musicians and traditional Tyrolean “Anklöpfler” storytellers wandering through the streets
2025 Market dates
21 November – 21 December 2025 (Friday to Sunday only!)
Opening hours on market days
Friday: 4pm-7pm
Saturday: 2:30pm-5:30pm
Sunday: 3pm-6pm
Exceptional opening hours
5 December 2025: closed*
*due to the Perchtenlaufes (Perchten Run) that takes place in Rattenberg on that day. The Perchtenlauf is an important alpine winter tradition where participants dress in elaborate costumes with wooden masks, fur robes, and bells to drive away evil winter spirits.
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Featured images © Alpbachtal Tourismus / Shootandstyle
