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Local winter customs and Austrian Christmas traditions during Christmas time at the Hotel Im Weissen Rössl
Perchten parades, winter customs and Twelve Wild Winter Nights: traditions at the Hotel Im Weissen Rössl
Austrian winter customs
Christmas in Austria is truly beautiful full of Austrian Christmas traditions and customs. And the traditional Hotel Im Weissen Rössl on Lake Wolfgang is the best place to spend it.
The Hotel Im Weissen Rössl on Lake Wolfgang has a rich history and has even gained global fame during its 500-year existence, as the setting for the romantic comedy of Leopold, the singing waiter, and the woman of his dreams, the pretty Rössl landlady, in the operetta "Im Weissen Rössl am Wolfgangsee".
Guests at the Hotel Im Weissen Rössl have enjoyed being at the heart of quintessential Austrian customs and traditions for centuries. It's no surprise, then, that your destination of choice in the Salzkammergut makes a big deal of Austrian Christmas traditions. The charming town of St. Wolfgang is utterly romantic in December. There are Krampus and Perchten parades around St. Nicholas Day on 6 December.
Austrian Christmas tradition: Perchten parade in St. Wolfgang
The Krampuses and Perchten figures that come out on parade every year around 5 December are an absolute must-see in St. Wolfgang. Although the bells of the sinister Perchten figures make an unbelievable din, their elaborately carved masks and fur suits are a spectacle worth seeing. And who knows, maybe St. Nicholas will bestow you with presents? Your romantic stay at the Hotel Im Weissen Rössl will seem like a gift from St. Nicholas, too. After watching the hustle and bustle on the market square, take a swim in the lake; the Lake Pool, heated to 30°C all year round, is at its most spectacular in December. As you unwind in the warm water, steam rises around you. The view of the snow-covered winter landscape around the Hotel Im Weissen Rössl will stay with you for a long time!
Tradition, not tat: Christmas in Austria
The pre-Christmas period in Austria is punctuated by a wide variety of customs. For example one Austrian Christmas tradition, 'Barbara' branches are cut from fruit trees on 4 December and placed in a vase. If the branches blossom, it promises happiness in the New Year – and, for unmarried women, even the prospect of a wedding. Sounds like one for you? Then whisk your sweetheart away to the Hotel Im Weissen Rössl! Who knows, perhaps you'll return to the Hotel Im Weissen Rössl in May for your wedding?
Austrian Christmas tradition: Glöckler and Christmas nights
Another Austrian Christmas tradition is that every year on 4 January, figures dressed in white parade through the village. Artful, illuminated caps adorn their heads – our Glöckler. The Glöckler are good spirits of light who drive away the evil spirits of the night before Christmas, so the Glöckler parade takes place every year on 4 January, the last of the Twelve Wild Winter Nights.
Jot this date in your calendar and enjoy this traditional spectacle from your box seat on the lake – the Hotel Im Weissen Rössl.
Spend your Christmas in Austria. Let yourself be pampered by the team at the Hotel Im Weissen Rössl and savour the most wonderful time of the year. To book your getaway, just send us a no-obligation enquiry!
Celebrations - Im Weissen Rössl
from
€
610.-
p.P.
When the lights go out...
Our top tip: "When the lights go out in the village". For a few hours, the electric lights go out all over the village, and St. Wolfgang is bathed in candlelight. Our guests can also avoid the crowds at weekends and visit the atmospheric Advent market when it is quieter.
from
€
470.-
p.P.
Chestnuts, punch & roast apples
Advent magic at Lake Wolfgang - atmospheric Advent season!
from
€
530,-
p.P.
Christmas with us
21. to 25.12.2025
4 nights with Christmas traditions and customs and a Christmas party with the Rössl family
from
€
1,175.-
p.P.
Rössl new year
between 28.12.25 & 03.01.26
4 nights with New Year's Eve gala and your loved ones at Lake Wolfgangsee
from
€
1,365.-
p.P.
FAQ
Most frequently asked questions
The Salzkammergut region is known for its unique Christmas customs, such as the Krampus and Perchten parades held around St. Nicholas Day on December 6. These parades feature elaborately costumed figures that create a festive atmosphere. Other traditions include the cutting of 'Barbara' branches on December 4, which symbolize good fortune, and the Glöckler parade on January 4, where figures dressed in white illuminate the village.
At the Hotel Im Weissen Rössl, guests can immerse themselves in traditional Austrian Christmas customs, enjoy a heated lake pool, and experience festive events like the Christmas party with the Rössl family. The hotel also offers a cozy atmosphere, picturesque views of the snow-covered landscape, and the opportunity to witness local parades and markets.
Yes, the hotel hosts special events during the Christmas season, including a Christmas party, traditional celebrations, and the chance to participate in local customs like the Perchten parade. Guests can also enjoy quiet moments at the Advent market when the village is illuminated by candlelight.
Guests at the Hotel Im Weissen Rössl have ample opportunities to participate in local Christmas traditions by attending the Krampus and Perchten parades, visiting the Advent market, and enjoying special seasonal events organized by the hotel. Engaging with the local community enhances the festive experience.
The 'Barbara' branches are cut from fruit trees on December 4 and placed in a vase. If they blossom by Christmas, it is believed to bring happiness in the New Year, and for unmarried women, it symbolizes the prospect of marriage. This tradition adds a layer of hope and excitement to the holiday season.
The Hotel Im Weissen Rössl offers various packages during the Christmas holiday, including a 4-night stay from December 21 to 25, featuring Christmas traditions and customs, with prices starting at €1,175 per person. Guests can also enjoy special experiences like horse-drawn carriage rides and gala events.
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