5 AUSTRIAN CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS - CULTURE VOCABULARY - 2025

What is now the Republic of Austria, in the past was a territory inhabited by the Celts. Those lands of Europe were rich in deposits of different minerals such as iron and salt, which facilitated the development of that town. In time it became a province of the Roman Empire.

Over the centuries, this Alpine region was Christianized by Irish and Scottish monks, and the power exercised in this region was in the hands of different families with a dukedom title that later became a kingdom.

Vienna, capital of Austria

Finally, in the modern era, the House of Habsburg ruled not only what is now Austria but also other countries in Europe.

In 1918, Austria was proclaimed a republic, and after World War II and having been occupied by the allied countries (France, the United Kingdom, Russia and the United States) it became a key state in the development of Europe.

The most popular Austrian customs and traditions

1- Austrian coffees

Cafes are a part of daily life for Austrians, especially Vienna residents. Undoubtedly, for the inhabitants of this great city, going to have a coffee in these traditional places is a custom that has been going on for many decades.

It is a moment of relaxation and relaxation, in which while reading or having a pleasant conversation, they enjoy exquisite traditional pastries and have different preparations with coffee.

At the beginning of the 20th century, visiting a Viennese café was a unique experience, with its waiters dressed in very formal clothes, its wonderful decorations and personalized service.

Today, it remains a unique custom for locals and tourists.

2- Christmas in Austria

From November 25 to the end of the year celebrations, Austria becomes a very special place to share the traditional festivities.

The inhabitants of this country follow the Advent tradition that begins on the day of Santa Catalina when they decorate their houses and the streets of cities and towns.

Every Sunday they light one of the four crown candles that they put on the doors until December 24.

There are Christmas trees everywhere and many gather to sing typical songs during the candlelight ceremony.

3- Punctuality

Austrians have managed to preserve their traditions and customs while still including and enjoying everything that modernity and technological advancement offer.

In Austria many festivals, concerts and other events take place throughout the year not only because they love their traditions but also because they like to get together with family and friends.

Austrians are considered around the world as very educated and very punctual, so when you have a meeting with a person from this country, it is more important than ever to be punctual.

The Austrians consider that not being punctual is an offense.

4- The waltz

During the winter season, Austria hosts hundreds of festivals where music is always present. Naturally, the music of this country is very happy but also very romantic.

A magnificent example of the music that Austrians still love is the Viennese waltz. With the creations of Johann Strauss, both father and son, millions of people still enjoy listening to the notes of his traditional waltzes.

People living in Austria, especially Vienna, and also tourists have the opportunity to waltz at the tag balls that are organized all over Austria from January to March.

You only need to buy a ticket to enter the dance and dress appropriately: dress code.

5- The family

The concept of family is one of the most important traditions for Austrians because the family is really the heart of society. Families in Austria are generally small and tight-knit.

The Austrians have not received large waves of immigration so the traditions and customs are maintained with great dedication and without too many changes.

In Austria, people enjoy family life, especially on weekends where they share outdoor activities.

Family dinner is a daily meeting that is not suspended for any reason

References

1. Austrian History, Austrian Embassy in Washington. Taken from austria.org
2. Walk through the cafes of Vienna: nationalgeographic.com.es
3. Christmas traditions in Austria: austria.info
4. Austrian etiquette: austria.info
5. Waltz dancing in Vienna: lonelyplanet.es
6. Austria Guide: commisceo-global.com.