Every year on the 1st of Advent, numerous shops in the lower part of Bern’s Old City open their doors and surprise customers with special offers. Unique garments, locally manufactured jewellery, and objects steeped in tradition and history are sold in different ateliers, craft workshops, bookstores, and many other shops. Also on the programme are the popular Advent carol singing in Kramgasse at 4 p.m. and, for the little Christmas fans, a visit by "Samichlous" (Santa Claus) from 4.45 p.m. at the "Zytglogge" (Zeitglockenturm).

They are located in Brunngasse, Gerechtigkeitsgasse, Herrengasse, Hotelgasse, Junkerngasse, Kramgasse, Münstergasse, Postgasse, and Rathausgasse, as well as under the arcade of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower). More about the event can be found here.

By the way: Not enough time to get all the presents? No problem! On 10 and 17 December, the annual Sunday sales will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The shops can choose when they want to open their doors.