The family experience at Christmas time: St. Nicholas comes across Lake Hallstatt
This event has already taken place
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Guests from all over the world
are cordially invited: You have to see it!
It has already become a cherished tradition in the Dachstein community of Obertraun on Lake Hallstatt. Every year during the Advent season, St. Nicholas does not come across the lake by horse or carriage, but with the traditional boat on Lake Hallstatt, the so-called "Fuhr". The traditional and rustic wooden boats of the people on Lake Hallstatt have also been "Intangible Cultural Heritage" of UNESCO in the Salzkammergut for some time.
Ship ahoy for St. Nicholas & Co.
On Sunday, November 30, 2025, Saint Nicholas will arrive on land, greeted by shining children's eyes, and distribute many gifts to them. He will be assisted by his trusty companion Knecht Ruprecht, who will carry the heavy sack of gifts, and by the Obertraun brass band."St. Nicholas Market" at the lido
Before St. Nicholas reaches the southern shore of Lake Hallstatt, the Obertraun Children's Friends, together with some exhibitors, invite you to a small but fine Advent market at the Obertraun lido from 15:30 hrs. onwards. Small culinary delicacies, handicrafts and all kinds of handicrafts are not to be missed.
To shorten the waiting time, the flute children of the state music school and musicians from Obertraun will play on the riverbank before St. Nicholas arrives at dusk.A varied afternoon for the whole family. Just drop by in the pre-Christmas Obertraun on Lake Hallstatt. This will be an experience. For young and old. Firmly promised! And this is where the most beautiful pictures for your loved ones at home are taken. Warranted. They will be happy.
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More Pre-Christmas events in the World Heritage region
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Your accommodation for this event
Hotels and accommodation providers in Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, Gosau and Obertraun offer the ideal room or apartment for your holidays, no matter what your tastes. Aside from establishments rated according to the international "star" scale, you will also find around Lake Hallstatt in Austria businesses that have been awarded two to four "edelweiss". The more flowers, the greater comforts you can expect. Whether you eventually find your cozy nest in an elegant 5-star luxury hotel, at comfortable guesthouse, a family-friendly apartment, or on a traditional farm, the choice is always entirely up to you.

