Margreider Laternen-Advent / Magrè Lantern Advent

The Lantern Advent in the village of Magrè

The Margreider Laternen-Advent, or Magrè Lantern Advent, is the signature Christmas event in the municipality of Magrè sulla strada del vino (known in German as Margreid an der Weinstraße), a small wine-growing village in the Province of Bolzano, nestled in the heart of the South Tyrolean Wine Road. Throughout the Advent season, from late November until Epiphany, the historic center lights up with hundreds of lanterns decorating streets, doorways, and windows, creating an intimate, cozy atmosphere that has made this event a beloved regional tradition in the south of the province.

A village of light along the Wine Road

Unlike the large Christmas markets in major cities, the Lantern Advent focuses on the intimacy and warmth of the village. The town turns into a small, illuminated Christmas forest, where visitors can stroll through decorated alleys accompanied by the scents of spices, cookies, and mulled wine. Along the route, you will find mulled wine stalls (Glühwein) and small food stands, while music, performances, and Advent storytelling brighten the evenings for both adults and children.

The Krampus run and Saint Nicholas

One of the most anticipated moments is the Krampus run (Krampuslauf), which traditionally takes place in Magrè on December 5th: the fearsome Krampus masks parade through the village streets, accompanied by Saint Nicholas (Nikolaus), who hands out gifts to children. It is an ancient ritual deeply rooted in Alpine and South Tyrolean culture, drawing numerous visitors to the small town every year.

The charity stall and the lantern competition

In the days leading up to Christmas, the event concludes with the traditional charity mulled wine stall, dedicated to community spirit and solidarity, featuring music and local festivities. During this time, the most beautiful lantern decoration of the year is awarded, a recognition that encourages residents to decorate the village and fosters a strong sense of local pride. The Lantern Advent is organized by the Municipality of Magrè sulla strada del vino in collaboration with local associations.