Christmas Comes Early to Vienna's Rathaus Market
visitors during opening week 2007
The stalls at Vienna's oldest Christmas market opened this past Saturday, November 17 and will remain open through December 24. The market, which is set up each year in front of the Rathaus, is the largest of its kind in Vienna. It dates back 7 centuries and now contains more than 140 market stalls selling honey and beeswax products, wool clothing, toys, ornaments, handmade soaps, and food and beverages (including the traditional hot spiced wine called "Gluhwein").
Perks of the Rathaus market include its family-friendly atmosphere and its playful scenery. The Rathaus (city hall) windows are decorated to serve as an advent calender for the month of December and various decoration landmarks, such as the themed lantern trees, make it easy to meet up with people. There is also a slew of entertainment on tap, including international choir performances during the Nov. 26 - Dec. 24 weekends, nightly musical performances next to the Rathaus Christmas tree from 8 - 8:30 pm Nov. 30 - Dec. 23, and children's puppet shows from 2 - 3 pm Fri. - Sun. on Nov. 30- Dec. 23.
The Rathaus market has a more mass-produced, crowded feel to it than other Viennese Christmas markets, but a visit will definitely leave you feeling full of Christmas cheer. To get there, take the U2 metro line or a tram to the Rathaus station. For more information, visit www.christkindlmarkt.at.
