Christmas Day in Austria
View the global Christmas Day guide
Christmas Day is an annual holiday celebrated on 25 December.
Christmas Day is observed in Austria on 25 December and is a nationwide public holiday. Austria has strong Catholic Christmas traditions, although the main family celebration often takes place on Christmas Eve, when gifts are exchanged and families gather for meals.
Christmas Day
Holiday
Austria
Country
2026
Next Date Year
Friday
Day
Dec
25
December 25, 2026
Christmas Day Date in Austria
Date
December 25, 2026
Day
Friday
Public Holiday
Yes
Bank Holiday
No
Date Confirmed
Yes
Christmas Day Dates in Austria
Christmas Day 2026
- Confirmed
Christmas Day 2027
- Confirmed
Christmas Day 2028
- Confirmed
About Christmas Day
Christmas Day is one of the most widely observed holidays around the world. Traditions and public holiday arrangements vary by country.
History of Christmas Day
Austria's Christmas traditions developed through centuries of Christian and Central European religious practice. The Advent season, church services, Christmas markets and family customs became deeply embedded in Austrian culture. Vienna, Salzburg and other cities are especially known for historic Christmas markets and musical traditions.
Importance of Christmas Day
For Christians, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. More broadly, it is one of Austria's most important family and cultural celebrations. The season has major significance for retail, tourism, hospitality and winter travel.
How Christmas Day Is Celebrated in Austria
Many families celebrate primarily on Christmas Eve with a decorated tree, gifts and a festive meal. Midnight Mass or other church services are common for practising Christians. Christmas Day is often quieter and spent with close family, while seasonal foods and music remain central to the celebration.
Office Impact
Austria’s Arbeitsruhegesetz lists this date as a statutory holiday and provides covered employees with at least 24 hours of holiday rest. Permitted holiday work and sector-specific exceptions mean that essential, transport, hospitality and other authorised services may still operate.
Bank Impact
Because this is a statutory holiday, customers should plan branch-dependent transactions in advance and verify opening hours and payment cut-offs with their own bank. Card, ATM or online access does not guarantee same-day settlement.
School Impact
The official federal school calendar identifies statutory holidays and the surrounding school breaks, but calendars can differ by school type. Check the applicable school year and institution before making attendance or childcare plans.
Travel Information
Christmas is a major winter tourism period in Austria. Ski resorts, Alpine destinations, Vienna, Salzburg and other cities can experience high accommodation and transport demand. Travellers should book well in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Christmas Day a public holiday in Austria?
Yes. 25 December is a nationwide public holiday.
When do Austrians usually exchange Christmas gifts?
Many families exchange gifts on Christmas Eve rather than waiting until Christmas morning.
Are banks and government offices open?
No. They are generally closed on Christmas Day.
Are schools open?
No. Schools are already closed for the Christmas holiday period.
Is Christmas busy for tourism?
Yes. Austria is a major winter destination, and ski resorts and historic cities can be very busy.