This old tradition goes back to the time when only a few rooms could be heated, and people and their farm animals would often cohabitate on the coldest days. You can imagine how lovely the aromas must have been—so this spicy room freshener was invented.

At Christmas there is a special Advent market on the Domplatz and the Residenzplatz, offering regional decorations, from the week before the first Advent Sunday until December 26, daily 9–8. Stores are generally open weekdays 10–6, and many on Saturday 10–5. Some supermarkets stay open until 7:30 on Thursday or Friday. Only shops in the railway station, the airport, and near the general hospital are open on Sunday.