During Advent, the Bad Kleinkirchheim region becomes an enchanting winter wonderland that perfectly sets the mood for Christmas. On the Advent weekends from 27 November to 20 December 2026, the Kirchheimer Advent takes place, transforming the village into a romantic winter setting with more than 30 Advent huts, festive lights and Christmas music. Already snow-covered mountains rise all around: Advent could hardly be more atmospheric.
Escape the rush of the weeks before Christmas and enjoy a winter holiday in Bad Kleinkirchheim that is sure to awaken your anticipation of the festivities. On the Advent weekends you can immerse yourself in a magical winter world as the Kirchheimer Advent turns the village’s squares and lanes into a romantic Christmas village. Festive lighting, the scent of gingerbread, baked apples and cinnamon-star biscuits, Christmas music and many special attractions put young and old in the perfect festive mood. In 2026 the market on the village square opposite Therme St. Kathrein is open Friday to Sunday and on 7 and 8 December, from 4 pm to 8 pm each day. Every market day brings music and a programme for children, and admission is free.
Path of Stars and Path of Warmth
Two atmospheric paths lead through the Kirchheimer Advent. The Sternenweg (Path of Stars) runs for around 700 metres through the spa gardens, past Advent windows. The Weg der Wärme (Path of Warmth) starts at Therme St. Kathrein and climbs an illuminated walkway with light installations up to St. Kathrein Church. Music creates a festive atmosphere on every market day. Therme St. Kathrein is also worth a visit during Advent: on Thursdays it invites you to swim amid sparkling lights.
Handicrafts and Advent huts
More than 30 Advent huts offering handicrafts and regional specialities invite you to browse at the Kirchheimer Advent. From lovingly made crafts to Christmas decorations, you are sure to find something lovely for yourself or your loved ones at home. On Saturdays, an Advent mass is held at 5.30 pm in St. Kathrein Church.
Advent for the whole family
The Kirchheimer Advent has plenty for little ones too: at the pony farm on the Sternenweg, children can groom ponies and lead them on guided rounds, and llama and alpaca walks are also on the programme. On every market day, small Christmas presents are made in the children’s creative workshop, and the Christkindl post office is open. On selected days, horse-drawn carriage rides offer a romantic tour of the village.
Before a stroll around the Advent market in Bad Kleinkirchheim, make the most of the deeply snow-covered landscape of the Carinthian Nockberge on peaceful winter walks or enjoyable days on the pistes. Afterwards, return to the luxurious Nockberge Lodge and warm up by the traditional Austrian tiled stove. That is what a perfect winter day in the weeks before Christmas looks like!
