Advent series, part 11

This winter market is truly Viennese

Tina Heindl (center) also serves cold gin and tonic. Silvia Lang and Alexander Ruthner from the Prater like it here.(Bild: Krone KREATIV/Reinhard Holl)

A large stage and 36 stalls with a wide variety of food and creative arts and crafts are waiting to be discovered on Riesenradplatz. 

The last part of the big "Krone" punch test takes us to the winter market on Riesenradplatz in the Prater, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year.

The number of punch varieties is large. And it tastes good.(Bild: Reinhard Holl)

Freshly tapped
Tina Heindl runs the hut "Das Palatschinkenpfandl". In addition to sweet and savory pastries, the apricot punch with apricot essence from the Wachau region and delicious mulled gin with ginger attract thirsty visitors for 6 euros. "Every portion is freshly tapped and the wine is sourced directly from local farmers," says Heindl. And you can taste it.

Manuel Gratzer pours champagne.(Bild: Reinhard Holl)

Champagne in the Winter Rondell
The Winter Rondell is open for the first time this year, with Manuel Gratzer's champagne bar (14 euros per glass), as well as baked apple punch and mulled wine. The "Hexenkessel" stand offers after-eight and Jägermeister punch. "We make our own mulled wine without sugar, so it's also suitable for diabetics," says Christian Goldhammer.

The perfect synergy
Swiss cheese fondue and churros are available to satisfy hunger in between meals. Viennese artists perform live five days a week in the evening. Prater Association President Silvia Lang: "Our winter market forms the perfect synergy with the rides, many of which are still open." Tip: On December 24 at 11 a.m. there will be a big raffle for the businesses.