Alpenadvent Sarntal (Christmas Market)

An Alpine Advent in the heart of Val Sarentino

Alpenadvent Sarntal, the Alpine Advent of Val Sarentino, is among the most authentic and intimate Christmas markets in South Tyrol. It takes place in the historic center of Sarentino (Sarnthein), a mountain municipality in the province of Bolzano, located in a side valley reachable in about half an hour from the capital. Here, Christmas is not a mass spectacle but a return to rural customs: wooden stalls built like small alpine huts, warm lights, the scent of mulled wine, and carols echoing through the village houses.

A market faithful to tradition

The 21st edition in 2026 confirms the formula that has made this event famous: about twenty stalls managed by local artisans and farmers, showcasing their handmade products. Among the specialties of Val Sarentino, the famous hand-knitted wool garments stand out, such as the typical Sarner Janggar (wool jackets) and wool slippers, as well as leather embroidery, wood carvings, honey, stone pine products, and artisanal Christmas decorations.

Flavors and atmosphere

The culinary side is not to be missed: food stalls offer smoked speck, krapfen, apple fritters, traditional sweets, and hot mulled wine. The atmosphere is that of an alpine village from days gone by, with live music provided by groups and choirs from all over South Tyrol.

Program and activities

• Living nativity scene in the parish garden
• Horse-drawn carriage rides through the village streets in the afternoon
• Bread baking in the wood-fired oven and visit to the Rohrerhaus museum-farm, with its historic kitchen and displayed nativity scene
• Children's program: creative workshops, Christmas forest with bonfires, bread on a stick, and punch
• Choirs and musical groups with brass, alpine horns, and traditional South Tyrolean Weisenbläser
• The tradition of Klöckeln, an ancient custom of the Advent period

When and how

The market is open on Advent weekends, from late November until a few days before Christmas. Admission is free. Val Sarentino, with its snowy landscape and living traditions, is the ideal setting for those seeking a South Tyrolean Christmas away from mass tourism. An event that combines faith, craftsmanship, and conviviality, rooted in the identity of the Sarentino community and the entire Trentino-South Tyrol region.