Advent markets in Graz: Experience, Christmas shopping and more

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Die Adventzeit bringt in Graz eine Wertschöpfung von 100 Millionen Euro. Adventmärkte locken Besucher und fördern den Handel. Erfahren Sie mehr über die Highlights und den wirtschaftlichen Einfluss der Saison.
The Advent season in Graz brings a added value of 100 million euros. Advent markets attract visitors and promote the trade. Learn more about the highlights and the economic influence of the season. (Symbolbild/DNAT)

The anticipation for the Advent season is now beginning, and this time is of enormous importance for retail in Styria. From this weekend, the Advent market season opens with numerous stands, treats and festive offers that invite people to linger and shop. In Graz, each visitor spends an average of over 50 euros, which shows how coveted these markets are and how much value creation they bring.

The rush should not be underestimated. The crowd frequency in downtown Graz is closely observed via anonymized cell phone data. Verena Hölzlsauer from City management reported that the Advent markets moved around 2.1 million visitors to the city last year. On top days, mainly on Saturdays, there were even up to 90,000 visitors. Of these, 10 to 15 percent come from other regions, while the majority come from the Graz area.

economic importance of the Advent markets

A survey from last year confirms that Advent market visitors spend more than 50 euros in Graz. Of this, around 13 euros are paid to the stands and around 40 euros for local trade and gastronomy. These amounts are of great relevance for the economy of the city and region and affect local companies and the creation of jobs.

This year there are a total of 16 advent markets in Graz. A highlight will be the ice crèche, which should also enjoy many visitors. The festive lighting of the city center is activated on Thursday and the large Christmas tree will shine a week later. In Mariazell, the commitment of the Viennese singing boys is expected to delight people. Here the organizer Andreas Schwaiger hopes for up to 100,000 visitors.

The attraction of the Mariazeller Advent is also strengthened by the newly built train station, which is opened seamlessly during Advent and makes it easier to travel from Lower Austria and Vienna. The markets will be open on five weekends from Thursday to Sunday. Furthermore, the Advent markets in Fürstenfeld, Hartberg, Leoben, Pinggau and Schladming will be opened on Friday, which expands the variety of offers in the region.

The high number of visitors and the significant expenses during the Advent season underline the importance of these events not only for Graz, but for all of Styria. With a colorful mix of handicrafts, regional delicacies and festive splendor, they contribute to the winter mood and at the same time support the local economy. More information about the current offers and events can also be found on styria.orf .