This week we got a big snowstorm, decorated for Christmas, and checked off our fourth Christmas market of the season – The Gmundener Advent.

We had intended on being in Munich on Saturday to see the FC Bayern soccer game, but 20 minutes into the drive, we received a notification it had been postponed due to the snowstorm. This change of plans allowed us to frolic around our very own town instead.

The Gmunden Advent is a series of small markets on the shores of Lake Traunsee. Divided into three locations–the main square, the old square, and the Schloss Ort Courtyard.

2023 Dates:
November 23, 24, 25
December 1, 2, 3
December 8,9,10
December 15, 16, 17

Hours:
Friday 1:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

What it lacks in size and over-the-top decoration, it makes up for in festive activities. Not to mention, the crowds are virtually nonexistent compared to other places we’ve been.

While all markets offer handmade gifts and traditional cuisine, Gmunden offers traditional blacksmithing at the town hall, alpaca walks through the city center, winter boat trips on the Traunseeschifffahrt, and free city tours to hidden gems through Gmunden's city center.

A visit to Gmunden is not complete without visiting one of the oldest buildings in town. Tucked behind a dimly lit side street, is one of the most magical corners of Gmunden. This particular house dates back 800 years and is owned by the Haas Family. A family who sells traditional hats and decorates the courtyard during the holidays. This courtyard is open to the public and on the final Friday before Christmas, the courtyard is filled for a Christmas program.

On Sunday, the sky transitioned back to blue after being grey for so long. We finished week 162 playing with the pups outside in the snow. Catching snowballs is one of their favorite things to do.

Next week, we are heading to Luxembourg and Belgium for our last big trip of 2023.