Looking forward to the Christkindlmarkt 2024: news & insider tips

11 November 2024

Post originally written in: Deutsch

From November 15, 2024, the time has come again: the first Christmas markets in Innsbruck will open their doors for enjoyable punch, Christmas kitchen smells and shopping for the festival of love.

There are a total of seven Christmas markets with over 200 stalls to visit in the run-up to Christmas. During Advent in Tyrol, a visit to the mountain Christmas market in Innsbruck is certainly one of the most beautiful highlights: From the Golden Roof up to the Bergisel and the Hungerburg 300 meters above the city.

With such a wide-ranging offer, it's easy to lose track. Fortunately, Robert Neuner, Managing Director of IAI Veranstaltungs GmbH and organizer of Innsbruck's Christmas markets, took the time to talk to us. The best insider tips at first hand.

Last year the 50th anniversary was celebrated, what can visitors expect in the 51st year of the Innsbruck Christkindlmarkt?

In Innsbruck, Tyrolean tradition and modernity go hand in hand. Guests can once again look forward to 7 atmospheric Christmas markets with over 200 stalls. There are two highlights to celebrate this year: the family market on Marktplatz (formerly Landhausplatz) is celebrating its 30th anniversary and the giants are celebrating their 20th anniversary in Riesengasse in the old town.

What's new in 2024?

There will be numerous new and innovative products - from traditional to modern - that will make Christmas shopping an unforgettable experience for young and old. The Giant King Serles will make his debut in the Riesengasse and there will be another seven interactive and newly designed stories and figures in the Märchengasse, over 25 figures in total. On the market square, children can look forward to a new children's theater program and new excursion rides on the virtual carriage. Santa Claus and Krampus will also be visiting the Kaiserweihnacht at Bergisel this year.

Which highlight should you definitely not miss with your (small) children?

This year's Bergweihnacht offers a variety of adventures for children. Daily fairytale performances on the theater wagon in the old town, right on the corner of Seilergasse and Kiebachgasse, will transport young and old into a magical world. The popular Punch and Judy show and fairy tales are also performed daily on the market square.

The colorful children's program at the Wiltener Weihnachtszauber ensures active participation with exciting hands-on activities and demonstrations.

A special highlight is the St. Nicholas procession and the traditional Krampus run on the Hungerburg and in St. Nicholas.

In the old town, the newly designed Märchengasse and Riesengasse invite you to explore - a magical experience for the whole family.

Where can senior citizens get their money's worth?

Every Wednesday there is a senior citizens' afternoon from 1-5 p.m. at the Christkindlmarkt Marktplatz with reduced prices on mulled wine and punch. Discounted tickets are available for senior citizens at the Lumagica light park in the Hofgarten.

In general, however, senior citizens can enjoy the festive atmosphere at all of the city's Christmas markets and many free events such as concerts, tower brass bands and the traditional procession of the Christkindlein invite you to enjoy some contemplative moments.

What makes Bergweihnacht so special?

The Bergweihnacht Innsbruck impresses with its unique combination of traditional Christmas magic right in the city center and impressive Alpine scenery. The modern Christmas lights tempt you to stroll around the 7 themed markets, which can be easily reached on foot or with the nostalgic Christkindlbahn.

Thanks to the close cooperation with "Advent in Tirol", the markets are subject to strict quality controls, which ensures an authentic and high-quality offering. Whether you are looking for a quiet, contemplative atmosphere or want to enjoy lively, festive events - there is something for every taste.

Is there anything else to add?

In addition to the wide range of products on offer at the markets, the radiant streets and decorated squares and alleyways, the most beautiful thing about the markets is the peaceful meeting of the many different people from near and far, of different age groups and origins.

Visitors, employees, actors or helpers behind the scenes ... the only thing they have in common is that they like the markets and the Advent season and you can see that in their faces.

Thank you very much for your time and your tips, Robert!

Christmas markets at a glance

All current information on opening times, the offer and program can be found at christkindlmarkt.cc. You can visit the following six Christmas markets: