Mataner Advent

An Advent market in the heart of the Bassa Atesina

The Mataner Advent is the traditional Advent market in the municipality of Montan/Montagna sulla strada del vino, located in the autonomous province of Bolzano, in Trentino-Alto Adige. Every year, as the Advent season begins, the village's historic center dresses up for the occasion: its alleys, courtyards, and small squares fill with lights, scents, and music, creating an authentic and cozy market that stands in contrast to larger city events.

Stalls, crafts, and local flavors

Along the village streets, over thirty stalls offer Christmas handicrafts, handmade items, decorations, and typical products from South Tyrolean farm life. Visitors can enjoy local gastronomic specialties, sweets prepared by local bakers, mulled wine (Glühwein), and regional delicacies served throughout the alleys. The beautifully decorated historic courtyards open their doors, inviting guests to stroll through a blend of tradition and atmosphere.

Program and family activities

The Mataner Advent is designed with children and families in mind. The program includes:

• Advent storytelling in the afternoon;
• a small petting zoo (Streichelzoo) with animals to interact with;
• pony rides and a slide for children;
• Christmas craft workshops in the library;
• Christmas music featuring various local groups and ensembles;
• the opening of the first Advent window and, in the morning, the Rorate Mass in the parish church.

Some editions have also featured a mask exhibition curated by the local Krampus association, highlighting the deep connection to alpine traditions of the period.

A charitable event organized by local farmers

The event is organized by the South Tyrolean Women Farmers' Association (Südtiroler Bäuerinnenorganisation, SBO) - the local Montan group - together with village associations. Beyond the festive spirit, the Mataner Advent has a strong charitable mission: proceeds from the food stalls are traditionally donated to the Bäuerlicher Notstandsfonds (BNF), a solidarity fund supporting farming families in need. This long-standing commitment makes the market a true community celebration.

Where and when

The market takes place in the historic center of Montan/Montagna, traditionally on the first Sunday of Advent or the last Sunday of November, with stalls open throughout the day. Montan/Montagna is located in the Bassa Atesina, about 26 kilometers south of Bolzano, in a scenic position overlooking the Adige Valley.