During Advent, Vienna’s most attractive squares make way for romantic Christmas markets where the aroma of yuletide baking and hot punch fills the air. Each year a traditional Christmas Market transforms City Hall Square into a magical Advent wonderland. A giant 12-meter Advent wreath takes pride of place on the square, while 150 Advent stands offer Christmas gifts, tree decorations, sweets and warming drinks. Meanwhile, the trees in the neighboring Rathauspark twinkle with festive decorations.

Just a few steps on is the Christmas village on Maria-Theresien-Platz , which is nestled between the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Museum of Natural History. During Advent more than 60 stands offer traditional, handcrafted wares and original gift ideas. Musical accompaniment is provided by brass bands and gospel choirs. Tradition is the order of the day at the Old Viennese Christmas Market at Freyung. There has been a Christmas market here ever since 1772. Nowadays the stands offer attractive handcrafted pieces, glass decorations, cribs and ceramics. Festive Advent music rings out on the square from 4 pm.

The Culture and Christmas Market in front of Schönbrunn Palace is held on the cour d’honneur of this former Habsburg summer residence. The romantic market stocks a rich selection of traditional handicrafts, handmade jewelry and rustic decorations for the Christmas tree. In addition to a packed kids’ program there is an exhibition devoted to Christmas customs. The Christmas market in front of the Belvedere Palace – once the summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy – has an imperial background. Visitors will marvel at the Baroque architecture and formal gardens.

The calm and contemplation of the Advent period is followed by a carefree celebration of the year end. The New Year’s Trail complete with music and culinary treats starts at City Hall and weaves its way through the old city, ultimately leading to Stephansplatz, the epicenter of the celebrations where revelers waltz their way into the New Year.

Vienna Christmas Market

November 14-Decemeber 24, 2009
City Hall Square, 1st district 
www.christkindlmarkt.at

Christmas Village on Maria-Theresien-Platz

November 18-December 24, 2009
Maria Theresien-Platz, 1st district
www.weihnachtsdorf.at

Old Viennese Christmas Market, Freyung

November 28-December 23, 2009
1st district
www.altwiener-markt.at

Culture and Christmas Market in front of Schönbrunn Palace

November 21-December 26, 2009
www.weihnachtsmarkt.co.at

Christmas Village at the Belvedere Palace

November 20.-December 23, 2009
Prinz Eugen-Strasse 27, 3rd district
www.weihnachtsdorf.at

New Year’s Trail

December 31, 2009
www.wien-event.at