It’s basically an outdoor fair that goes on for six weeks to celebrate that Christmas is coming. There are stands that sell toys, Christmas decorations, and sweets. What the adults really go for though, is the very strong alcoholic Glühwein. Here’s how Glühwein is prepared.

Take some cheap red wine and warm it up in a pot. Throw oranges, cinnamon sticks and other mystery spices in. Grab a metal grate and put it over the pot. Place a large sugar cone on the metal grate and douse it in rum. Set the sugar cone on fire and let the sugar drip into the pot. Serve hot. Get drunk.

Yesterday was the opening of the Christkindlmarkt in Vienna. Vienna has about 15 different ones located throughout the city, but it is the opinion of many that the one at the Rathaus (city hall) is the best. Don’t go to a Christkindlmarkt during the day, you’ll be the only one there. Go after the sun sets. I know it seems insane to stand around outside in the middle of winter, but get some Glüwein, and it won’t seem so cold. Enjoy the merry atmosphere.

Vienna Rathaus Christkindlmarkt

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