Christmas Eve 2025

Description

Christmas Eve in Austria is the evening of December 24. Families gather to celebrate the coming of Christmas. It is the most important part of the holiday season when people prepare for the two official public holidays on December 25 and 26.

On this night Austrians decorate the Weihnachtsbaum and light candles. Many give presents that are said to come from the Christkind, an angel like gift giver. People eat special foods such as roast meat, fish or pastries, sing carols and go to church services or Midnight Mass.

The evening is about family, faith and warmth. It ends the quiet waiting of Advent and begins the joyful time of Christmas. For many Austrians it is the most meaningful night of the year.

Traditions

On Christmas Eve in Austria families clean the house, light candles and dress the tree. Many wait for the Christkind to bring gifts. Children often close their eyes while parents put presents beneath the tree. Everyone sings carols and rings bells.

People usually go to a short evening Mass or have a quiet family dinner. Popular foods are roast goose, carp in some regions, potato salad, and sweet cookies like Vanillekipferl. After dinner families open presents and enjoy hot punch or mulled wine for adults.

Regional customs vary. In Tyrol people may see Krampus parades with scary costumes the week before. Salzburg proudly remembers the carol Silent Night. Small villages keep older folk customs alive with lantern walks.

Travel Tips

Christmas Eve in Austria is mostly a family evening. Many shops and offices close early or stay closed. Expect busy trains and roads in the afternoon. Christmas markets, church services, and festive lights are lively until evening.

Enjoy mulled wine, local food, and a peaceful walk. Book restaurants and transport early, watch your bags in crowds, and respect quiet family traditions. Join a market or a church service to feel the holiday spirit in a safe, meaningful way.