Advent at Kastelbell Castle
Advent in the castle of Castelbello, in the Vinschgau Valley
About Advent at Kastelbell Castle
Advent at Kastelbell Castle
Every year, on one of the final weekends before Christmas, Kastelbell Castle (Schloss Kastelbell) transforms into a magical Advent world. The fortress, which overlooks the village of Kastelbell in the lower Vinschgau Valley, opens its decorated courtyards and walkways to welcome locals and visitors into an intimate atmosphere, far from the crowds of larger markets. The Advent im Schloss Kastelbell is organized by the Municipality of Kastelbell-Tschars together with local associations, making it one of the most evocative Christmas events in the region.
Within the castle walls
The event spans three days. The inauguration typically takes place on Friday evening with a quiet lantern procession (Lichterprozession) that winds its way from the village square up to the castle, accompanied by readings of Advent and Christmas tales. The alley leading to the fortress is illuminated with soft lighting, creating the perfect setting for an evening stroll in the crisp winter air of the Vinschgau Valley.
What to expect
- Christmas market with stalls offering regional products, baked goods, bread, and artisanal gift ideas
- Culinary specialties and hot drinks served in the castle courtyard (mulled wine, tea, traditional sweets)
- Nativity scene with a sheep pen, a favorite among children
- Storytime for children featuring Advent and Christmas tales
- Live music performed by the local brass band and choirs
- Art exhibitions hosted in the castle halls (featuring marble sculptures and works by local artists)
An authentic Vinschgau Valley event
Unlike the large South Tyrolean Christmas markets (Bolzano, Merano, Bressanone), the Advent at Kastelbell Castle retains a local, family-friendly feel. It is a wonderful opportunity to discover an authentic village in the province of Bolzano, in Trentino-Alto Adige, and to experience South Tyrolean Advent traditions within a unique historical setting. Admission is free, and the event actively involves the associations, choirs, and bands of Kastelbell-Tschars.
Advent at Kastelbell Castle — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of the Advent at Kastelbell Castle will be held from Friday, December 18 to Sunday, December 20, 2026 at Kastelbell Castle. The announced opening hours are: Friday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Saturday from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
As per tradition, the decorated manor will host a market of regional products, a nativity scene, music from local choirs and bands, children's readings, and culinary specialties with hot drinks in the courtyard. The detailed program (precise times, exhibitions, musical appointments) will be published by the Municipality of Kastelbell-Tschars in the weeks preceding the event.
Prices Advent at Kastelbell Castle 2026
Practical information — Advent at Kastelbell Castle
Getting there
Kastelbell Castle is located in the center of the village of Kastelbell, in the Vinschgau Valley, province of Bolzano. By car, it can be reached via the SS38 Stelvio road; parking is available in the village center and at the Kastelbell train station. By train, the Vinschgau Valley line (Merano–Malles) stops at the Kastelbell station, just a few minutes' walk from the castle.
Admission and hours
Free admission. The event typically takes place on Friday afternoon/evening, Saturday, and Sunday. Warm clothing is recommended for the cold winter evenings at this altitude.
Info
Municipality of Kastelbell-Tschars — Vinschgau Valley Tourist Office.
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Where does it take place — Advent at Kastelbell Castle
Schloss Kastelbell (Castel Castelbello)
Dorfplatz 1, 39020 Castelbello-Ciardes/Kastelbell-Tschars