The Ortisei Christmas Village and “Mountain Christmas” in Selva Gardena transform the Val Gardena into a Christmas valley
Between late November and early January, countless small wooden huts open their doors in the Val Gardena, enchanting visitors with their charm and delicious aromas. These include the Ortisei Christmas Village, "Nadel Urtijëi", located in the pedestrian zone around St. Anthony's Church. The stalls, designed to look like they are made of loden fabric, attract passers-by with regional products and culinary specialities. In addition, a small window of the Advent calendar is opened daily.
In the next village up the valley, Santa Cristina, visitors can listen to Advent carols from the "Cor Sasslong" choir and other musical groups, who perform in the small church of Monte Pana at the foot of Mt. Sassolungo. At the end of the valley, in Selva Gardena, "Mountain Christmas", or "Nadel da Mont", creates a special atmosphere beneath the rugged peaks of the Dolomites.
This Christmas Market, styled as a mountain village, is particularly known for its original cable car made of decorated wooden cabins. Here, the long tradition of the ski resort combines with culinary delights and festive music. Small wooden huts and more wooden gondolas decorate the town. A snow sculpture competition also takes place here at the end of December.
With all this pre-Christmas inspiration, it is worth remembering the nativity figures that have been crafted for generations by local woodcarvers. What once kept farmers busy in winter is now a globally appreciated craft. As a popular souvenir, the figurines carry the craftsmanship of the Val Gardena out into the world. Other highlights, such as the larger than life-sized Christmas crib and the Heide Nativity Scene Museum, are accessible all year round.
