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Vienna Christmas markets: popularity and sales increase during Advent
Over 71% of Viennese are planning to visit the Christmas markets this year. The Vienna Chamber of Commerce forecasts sales in the millions. Find out more about the preferences and trends of the Advent season!
Vienna Christmas markets: popularity and sales increase during Advent
The anticipation of the Christmas season is palpable in Vienna: A survey by the Vienna Chamber of Commerce shows that over 71 percent of Viennese plan to visit one of the many Christmas markets at least once. These markets, which offer a variety of Christmas stalls, are an integral part of Vienna's Advent tradition and annually attract not only local visitors but also tourists from further afield.
With a total of 14 Christmas markets and around 800 stalls, the capital is transformed into a true Christmas paradise every year. In popular locations such as Rathausplatz, Spittelberg and Schönbrunn Palace, Viennese are particularly impressed by the festive atmosphere, which is accompanied by lights, decorative stands and lively music. According to the survey results, every Viennese is planning an average of four visits during this year's Advent season.
Economic importance of markets
The Christmas markets are not only a place of enjoyment and conviviality, but also an important economic factor for the city. “Christmas markets have a long tradition and are enjoying increasing popularity,” explains Margarete Gumprecht, head of the trade division at WKW. The planned visits from Viennese alone add up to around 4.5 million, and the markets also attract numerous international guests who want to experience the city's special flair.
The willingness of visitors to spend should be emphasized. On average, visitors spend around 30 euros per market visit - a welcome increase compared to 22 euros in 2019. This development could generate an estimated total turnover of around 140 million euros, although tourist spending is not yet taken into account in this calculation.
The atmospheric atmosphere is the main reason for the popularity of the markets: More than half of those surveyed (57 percent) say that the special ambience is crucial for them. In addition, 45 percent enjoy socializing with friends and 43 percent enjoy punch and mulled wine.
The top 5 Christmas markets
Vienna offers a variety of options, but some markets particularly stand out. The Vienna Chamber of Commerce has highlighted the top 5 most popular Christmas markets:
- Rathausplatz
- Spittelberg
- Schloss Schönbrunn
- Weihnachtsdorf am Campus der Universität im Alten AKH
- „Art Advent“ am Karlsplatz
These markets not only offer culinary delicacies such as punch, mulled wine and roasted almonds, but also a wide range of handicrafts, toys and Christmas decorations, which attract many visitors. In addition, around 20 percent of market visitors combine their visit with shopping nearby, which also benefits local shops.
The Christmas markets are not only a place to celebrate, but also an important source of inspiration for the economy in Vienna. This year at Christmas time the city is once again expecting an abundance of visitors who want to enjoy the unique flair of the markets. Whatever the impact of the turbulence in the global economy, Vienna's Christmas markets remain a popular destination - for locals and international guests. You can find more information about why Vienna is considered a global Christmas city in the detailed report on www.meinkreis.at.