Bringing the Magic of Vienna’s Christmas Markets Home

If the holiday decor vibe you are going for this year is the Vienna Christmas markets, you’ll want to make sure to focus on the senses.  That being said, taste, sight, and sound.  A traditional Austrian playlist, classic decorations, and definitely the right recipes.  Decor such as Christmas kits also makes your space feel more authentic.

The first flavor that comes to mind whilst thinking of Christmas markets is mulled wine – Glühwein if you want to sound like a local.  This drink is the heart of the Viennese market experience.  Mulled wine is a red wine with spices like cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and orange peel.  The spiced wine is always served warm, perfect for those cold Austrian nights.  Kits are available to purchase that come with pre-measured spice blends.  Not only does this taste great, but while heating the wine, it will release the exact aromas into your home that would be the same as the market.  

Another staple is roasted chestnuts.  To make these, you will need an oven or a skillet.  Roast them until he shells split and you have yourself a classic, comforting snack that will transport you to Vienna in winter.

Another delicacy that can be replicated in your home this Christmas is Krapfen (stuffed doughnuts).  These are a holiday favorite in Vienna.  Usually, they are filled with apricot jam or vanilla custard.  Nothing beats them made fresh from scratch; however, purchasing a doughnut mix and pre-made fillings can make this a snack easier to prepare and make the process less intimidating.  

Other street treats that can be found in Vienna markets are also gingerbread cookies and vanilla kipferl.  Adding these to your Christmas banquet will really round out the experience whilst filling your home with those delicious, authentic smells.

To help re-create the Christmas market vibe in your home, it’s especially important to pay attention to the small details.  Music choices can really set the scene.  Think traditional carols, choral pieces, or even some classical music to set the mood.  

For decor, miniature wooden huts or buildings made the wooden building kits fit the vibe.  Add some fairy lights, evergreen garlands, and a few handmade ornaments too.  This will make your space feel more traditionally festive.  The small touches are what will make your home feel like a cozy market stall instead of just normal Holiday decorations.

For those looking to take their holiday decor to the next step, include references to Vienna’s major markets to really go above and beyond.  The Wiener Christkindlmarkt stands out for its old-school crafts and festive music.  Use this market as a decor guide if you are into hand-carved ornaments and those classic decorations you only see around the holidays.  

If you want to include some aspects of Vienna’s Christmas markets in your decor this year but still want to keep your space looking clean and modern, Art Advent leans into the more artsy contemporary side.  If you prefer something more modern or offbeat, this market’s approach will give you further inspiration and ideas that break the mold.

One of Vienna’s most famous markets is the Karlkirche Christmas market.  The backdrop is stunning, with its church standing tall in the background.  It’s dramatic, but its image will stick with you.  What is particularly beautiful about this market is the abundance and focus on local artisans.  Make sure to check out images and videos of this market to give you more inspiration for your next holiday decor.