Christmas Markets are Coming

Yes, it's that time of year again, and if you wonder if you can get up the right feeling for Christmas markets in November, and with the relatively warm temperatures, I would just like to remind you that you won't get near the stalls on weekends in December, so go now for the shopping, and in December for the atmosphere.

The classic one in front of the Rathaus is open from November 15 - December 24. You almost have to do this one. The tree is up already, and came from Schneeberg.

The Schönbrunn market is open from November 22 - December 26. This makes a nice outing on the day after Christmas if you haven't made it there earlier. Also keep an eye on their schedule of music. www.weihnachtsmarkt.co.at They have really nice traditional craft ornaments here, and we also enjoy the snacks on offer.

I am particularly fond of the small one on Freyung. November 21- December 23

Spittelberg is another favorite, with some artistic flair. November 15 - December 23.
Note that this one doesn't open until 14:00 (2PM) during the week.

But there are lots more, and you can fiind out about ones near you on http://www.wien-vienna.at/freizeit.php?ID=418

It's also worth keeping an eye out in your neighborhood for small ones in a local parish or school. These can be fun, and they will have handmade items very different from those at the big markets. The Community Center out here in Essling has a very nice one. (December 15 - 18 is the last weekend for this one.) If you come, be sure and stop at the cart of the smoked trout seller. I have to find out this year where to buy his fish the rest of the year!

There are also a number of good ones that run for only one or two weekends outside of Vienna.

Grafenegger Advent is well known for both good shopping and for theatre and music. This year it's from December 5 - 8, so go to the website, get yourselves some concert tickets, and make a real day of it.

The same weekend is the market at Schlosshof. Steven and I went last year and really enjoyed doing his shopping.

And of course the UN Women's Guild Bazaar at the Austria Center on December 6 from 10-17. International gifts, food, and flair under one roof.

Luckily the 8th is a holiday, or we would have to miss some of these!


Do you have other favorites? Share them with me and other readers in a comment!