The Krippe may be set up before Christmas Eve, especially if it is an elaborate one. But Christkindl is not placed in the manger until Christmas Eve. As the Advent season draws to a close, greetings are exchanged, more cookies are baked, and other preparations for Christkindl's arrival proceed with mounting excitement. The evening of the 24th, Christmas Eve, is the traditional time to exchange gifts with family and friends. Shops close by 6 p.m. Restaurants and nightclubs grow silent and dark.
Traffic seems to disappear.
Most Austrian homes enter the final stages of preparation for Christkindl's arrival. For the children the excitement is almost unbearable. Finally, the children hear the sound they have all been awaiting-the tinkling bell that summons them to the Christmas room. There, for the first time that season, they witness Christkindl's handiwork. There is the tree, with dozens of live candles, sparklers, silver ornaments and candy, in all its splendor.