Many of Hochsteiermark’s traditional events, including the "Schifferl-Setzen” or the “Krampusläufe” in Mariazell, greatly define the individual seasons. Other seasonal highlights include the Easter festivities involving bread consecration ceremonies and ratcheting (“Ratschen”). What’s more, many towns and cities host traditional “Kirtage” festivals throughout the year. If you would like to experience Christmas like it was in the olden days, you should make sure to catch the Mariazell Advent festivities featuring the world’s largest suspended advent wreath.
Hochsteiermark boasts a multitude of cultural highlights, ranging from classical concerts like those of the Neuberger Kulturtage festival to those of the Internationale Brahmsfest festival in Mürzzuschlag. Plus, you can experience themed hikes revolving around famous Austrian writer Peter Rosegger in the Waldheimat region or catch a reading or comedy performance. If you’re interested in the life of the crusaders and alchemists, we recommend a visit to Oberkapfenberg Castle.
SÜDBAHN Museum, kunsthaus muerz, WinterSportMuseum: In Mürzzuschlag at the foot of the Semmering, you can expand your knowledge at various museums. For fascinating insights into the art of glass-blowing, visit Kaiserhof Glasmanufaktur in Neuberg an der Mürz. Alternatively, Naturmuseum Neuberg at Mürzer Oberland Nature Park, Montanmuseum Gusswerk and Heimathaus in Mariazell and Montanarum mining museum in Altenberg are all worth a visit too.