This post is also available in: Français Italiano Español
Steyr, in Upper Austria, a few kilometers south of Linz, is the city of Advent or of the Child Jesus, in fact tradition has handed down the appearance of the Child Jesus in the Christkindl Sanctuary built in 1708. The town houses the largest nativity scene in the world and the mechanical crib. Worth noting is the historic center of this town which offers a splendid and unusual scenario: from 1st to 25th December, in fact, the shutters of the splendidly decorated windows are left open.
STEYR CHRISTMAS MARKETS
There are several events related to Advent that the town of Steyr presents during the weeks leading up to Christmas, among the most important events there are usually two Christmas markets: one takes place in the historic center while the other takes place in a large avenue. An interesting exhibition usually takes place in the Lamberg castle.
1) The Steyr Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt Altstadt Steyr am Stadtplatz), is the classic Christmas market that takes place in the historic center of the town. A large Christmas tree and a beautiful nativity scene complete this rich market.
After Christmas Eve, the Christmas market on the Stadtplatz turns into a New Year’s market (Silvestermarkt).
2) The Steyrer Christkindlmarkt auf der Promenade usually consists of 50 stands of local products placed along an avenue of old trees lit up for a party. The traders and artisans of this market offer Christmas gifts, including toys, basketry, minerals, gemstones, wax moulds, sculptures, pottery, candles, etc. You will also find local specialities, mulled wine and punch, Bratwürsteln, baked potatoes and pancakes. For children there are fairy tale characters and a hut dedicated to trades.
3) The Weihnachten im Schloss Lamberg is an exhibition of arts and crafts that usually takes place in the Lamberg castle. On this occasion, Christmas decorations, wrought iron art objects, leather goods, textile art, figurative ceramics, glass objects, wooden objects, stone sculptures, antique furniture, ceramics and porcelain, hats, decorated nativity scenes are offered.