Tradition & customs are very important!
Advent customs begin with the traditional Barbara celebrations in the mining villages of Arzberg and Breitenau am Hochlantsch. In the past, Krampus accompanied St. Nicholas and gave out rods to naughty children, but today he makes his grand entrance during Krampus parades and Perchten runs.
On December 5, the evening before the feast of St. Nicholas, St. Nicholas visits the children, who are given nuts, mandarins and sweets, but only the good children! December 21 is the winter solstice, the longest night of the year, also known as St. Thomas' night, is illuminated by light hikes and mountain fires.
On December 24th, the Light of Peace is brought to individual towns and villages, and is often handed over to personalities. The light is lit a few days beforehand by an Upper Austrian child in Bethlehem and brought to Europe by plane. This first took place in 1986 on the initiative of the ORF regional studio in Upper Austria. Then as now, the passing on of the light is intended to bring peace to people from the birthplace of the Lord. Donations are collected for various projects.
The atmospheric church concerts, nativity scene exhibitions and Advent markets in the individual villages are also a great way to get in the mood for Christmas. Take up the offer and perhaps use the time before Christmas to get to know previously unknown sides of the Almenland Nature Park.
