Kitzbühel welcomes winter with festive charm, world-class skiing, and new openings

Kitzbühel welcomes winter with festive charm, world-class skiing, and new openings

We are delighted to share the latest updates on Kitzbühel’s enchanting winter season, from the festive charm of the Kitzbüheler Advent to world-class skiing and exciting new developments in hospitality and events. Keep reading to discover what makes Kitzbühel a premier winter destination, along with key dates and highlights for this winter season.

Renowned worldwide for its rich traditions and enchanting atmosphere, Kitzbühel transforms into a magical wonderland each winter. This season, the town invites visitors to experience the joy of Advent, world-class skiing, and exciting new developments, solidifying its status as a premier winter destination.

Kitzbüheler Advent: A Christmas Wonderland

From November 20 to December 26, Kitzbühel’s town centre and Stadtpark come alive with the Kitzbüheler Advent market, open Wednesdays to Sundays from 2.00 pm to 8.00 pm, with special hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Against a backdrop of colourful, decorated facades, visitors can revel in the festive ambiance.

The market offers regional delicacies, traditional handicrafts, and performances by local choirs and music groups. Visitors can sip mulled wine from specially designed Advent cups, enjoy the scent of hot chestnuts, and immerse themselves in Christmas cheer with nativity scenes and storytelling sessions. Children are also treated to activities like star painting, carousel rides, and the magical Christkindl post office. For full program details across Kitzbühel and nearby towns, visit Events in Kitzbühel, Tyrol | Sport, music and culture.

A Ski Season to Remember

Kitzbühel’s ski season is in full swing, with slopes open from November through Easter. With 233 kilometres of downhill runs, 10 free practice lifts for beginners, and over 60 cosy ski huts, the region caters to all skill levels. Families will find dedicated children’s areas in ski schools, ensuring a fun and educational experience for young skiers.

Kitzbühel’s reputation as a premier ski destination was further cemented by its 2024 awards. The town was named Austria’s Best Ski Resort for the twelfth consecutive year, and the Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel was recognized as the World’s Best Ski Resort Company. Other honourees include the A-ROSA Resort, Hahnenkamm Lodge, and Rasmushof Hotel Kitzbühel, showcasing the town’s exceptional facilities.

HENRI Country House: A New Era of Hospitality

This December, Kitzbühel will welcome the HENRI Country House, a boutique hotel blending tradition and vintage charm. Situated in the historic Hotel Klauser building, the HENRI Country House boasts 84 individually designed rooms, a state-of-the-art spa, and close proximity to Kitzbühel’s iconic attractions. Opening specials offer a chance to celebrate the holidays in style; details can be found at henri-hotels.com.

Winter Events Preview

Kitzbühel promises a season filled with memorable events. Highlights include:

Welcome 2025: A spectacular New Year’s celebration from December 30 to January 1, featuring light installations and live music.

Noble Horses & Exclusive Program at Snow Polo: With the Snow Polo Tournament, Kitzbühel rings in the New Year with world-class winter sports. This event is considered the most prestigious winter polo tournament in the world, dazzling spectators with action-packed equestrian sport and an elegant atmosphere. Enjoy thrilling matches against the stunning backdrop of the Wilder Kaiser mountain range. The 22nd Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel will take place from 16 – 19 January 2025. Beyond the field, a vibrant atmosphere awaits with diverse entertainment and top-notch gastronomy. Admission to the General Area is free and there will be a shuttle provided going from Kitzbühel to the location. More information can be found: 22nd Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel | 16. to 19. January 2025 in Kitzbühel

85th Hahnenkamm Races: From January 20–26 2025, the world’s best skiers will compete on the legendary Streif and Ganslernhang slopes. Tickets must be bought in advance online, there will be no ticket sales on site.

SOUND | ESCAPE – Kitzbühel Boutique Festival returns for a second edition: The inaugural Sound Escape – Boutique Festival made a spectacular debut in Kitzbühel during the Easter weekend of 2024, captivating attendees with its vibrant atmosphere. The event featured a central stage in Kitzbühel’s city centre, 14 unique locations across the mountains and valley, and showcased over 40 renowned DJs from the electronic music scene. Following this successful launch, plans for a continuation of the festival are set for 28 – 30 March 2025. Entry to the Sound Escape festival is free

For a full calendar of events, visit Events in Kitzbühel, Tyrol | Sport, music and culture.

Discover the Magic of Kitzbühel

Whether drawn by the charm of the Advent season, the exhilaration of the slopes, or the allure of world-class hospitality, Kitzbühel promises a winter filled with unforgettable moments. Experience the magic of Austria’s premier Alpine destination this season.

Go to Kitzbühel  

A seven-night stay at the charming Q Hotel Maria Theresia in Kitzbühel, on a half board basis, arriving 11 January 2025 is priced from £1,274 pp based on three sharing. Includes return flights from London Gatwick to Salzburg and transfers. 

Inghams (+44(0) 1483 698099, www.inghams.co.uk) 

To start planning your Kitzbühel ski trip and for more information please visit: www.kitzbuehel.com/en 