SO COME ONE, SO COME ALL...
From 4 to 6 December 2026, STIFTSWEIHNACHT´AM SEE will once again transform the Baroque Ossiach Abbey into a sparkling Christmas wonderland. Alongside atmospheric music, arts and crafts, and delicious culinary treats, this year’s programme features some special experiences: alpaca walks, a peaceful incense walk and a brand-new Advent trail leading towards Lake Ossiach.
If you love spending the Advent season surrounded by festive music, sweet treats and a leisurely stroll through a Christmas market, then the festively decorated Ossiach Abbey is the perfect place to visit from 4 to 6 December 2026. With wonderful concerts, a colourful programme of dance and theatre, and delicious culinary delights, the wait for Christmas becomes a truly special experience. Those still searching for that perfect gift will find plenty of inspiration at the charming arts and crafts market, featuring ceramics, candles, wooden artworks, handbags, herbs, soaps, beautiful products made from alpaca wool, homemade Christmas biscuits crafted by master bakers and much more.
The Sweetest Sound of Christmas.
Nothing brings us together at Christmas quite like music. At STIFTSWEIHNACHT´AM SEE, visitors can enjoy it in several special locations throughout the abbey. Whether in the Abbey Courtyard, the Abbey Church or the Alban Berg Concert Hall, choirs, brass ensembles and regional musical groups will fill the Advent season with festive sounds.
Once Upon a Christmas...
Alongside the wonderful concerts, visitors can look forward to enchanting Christmas stories performed by the actors and actresses of the CMA Acting Programme.
New this year: Alpaca walks with the animals from Lamahof Marbauer.
On Friday and Sunday, visitors will have the opportunity to meet these fluffy four-legged companions on a guided walk and discover the beautiful surroundings of the abbey in a very special way. An experience guaranteed to bring a sparkle to children's eyes – and a wonderful opportunity for everyone to slow down and take a break from the often hectic pre-Christmas season.
A New Advent Trail Towards the Lake
For the first time this year, a charming little Advent trail invites visitors to stroll from the Abbey Courtyard towards Lake Ossiach. Surrounded by historic architecture and winter scenery, it offers a peaceful place to pause, take a deep breath and simply enjoy the moment. The trail adds a tranquil touch to the lively Christmas market and makes a visit to the Advent celebrations a special experience for the whole family.
Stories, Fragrances and Historic Walls
Sunday, 6 December, brings even more special experiences and fascinating insights. Anita Arneitz invites visitors to join an incense walk, sharing the atmospheric tradition of incense burning during the Advent season. Those wishing to discover more about the history of Ossiach Abbey can also join Hilde Bing on a guided tour through its historic walls and immerse themselves in the fascinating story of this very special place.
Saint Nicholas Takes the Helm.
Of course, no STIFTSWEIHNACHT´AM SEE would be complete without Saint Nicholas! On 5 December, he will arrive by boat across Lake Ossiach. Parents and children should make sure to find a good spot in the Abbey Courtyard, where Saint Nicholas will hand out his generously filled Christmas gift bags.
The Scent of Christmas.
A walk down to the lake or a leisurely stroll through the Christmas market can certainly work up an appetite! Fortunately, STIFTSWEIHNACHT´AM SEE also has plenty of delicious treats to satisfy visitors' culinary cravings.
Christmas Market Opening Hours:
Friday, 4 December 2026 | 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Saturday, 5 December 2026 | 10:00 am – 7:00 pm (Children's Advent Programme from 4:30 pm)
Sunday, 6 December 2026 | 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Subject to change.