Celebrate the Season at the Taste of Lower Austria Advent Market
Vienna’s Palais Niederösterreich was transformed into a winter wonderland Friday afternoon as the 16th annual “This is how Lower Austria tastes” Christmas market officially opened its doors. The air was filled with the scent of mulled wine and hearty Gröstl, while children delighted in a special baking demonstration. State Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner, LH deputy Stephan Pernkopf, and cathedral priest Toni Faber joined in the tradition, playfully creating baking mixes on stage for the audience.
A Celebration of Authentic Austrian Tradition
“Visiting the ‘This is how Lower Austria tastes’ Advent market has become a beloved tradition,” State Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner shared. “Every year we come together here on the first weekend of Advent and really get into the Christmas spirit. Especially today, when many are concerned about our country losing its unique identity, it is even more important to preserve our Christian traditions and customs. We are proud of our regions, choirs, brass music, our craftsmanship, and our regional delicacies, and proudly showcase them at this beautiful market.”
LH vice-governor Stephan Pernkopf added, “The heart of the ‘This is how Lower Austria tastes’ Advent market lies with the farms cooking up delicious treats in the inner courtyard. They offer a wide variety of unique culinary experiences to sample and take home. This market is truly a celebration of our country’s diverse food culture, with 40 companies from all districts participating.”
A Festive Experience For All
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The “This is how Lower Austria tastes” Advent market welcomes everyone to experience the magic of the season on Saturday, November 30th from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., offering a unique ambiance within the historic walls of the Palais Niederösterreich (Herrengasse 13, 1010 Vienna). Guests can savor regional delicacies, admire beautiful handicrafts, and enjoy the tranquility of contemplative choirs and the festive sounds of brass bands. A special bakery for children adds to the joyous atmosphere.
Free guided tours of the historic building will be offered on Saturday. Registration takes place at the “This is how Lower Austria tastes” information stand.
Pre-Christmas Competitions and More
As part of the Advent market, “This is how Lower Austria tastes” is hosting a pre-Christmas competition. Simply answer the winning question on www.soschmecktnoe.at, and with a bit of luck, you could win a cooking course, tavern vouchers, or a Lower Austria CARD!
For comprehensive details regarding the program items surrounding the Advent market and the guided tours through the Palais Niederösterreich, please visit www.soschmecktnoe.at.
What makes the Christmas market at the Palais Niederösterreich special for visitors?
## A Bite of Holiday Cheer: Interview at the Palais Niederösterreich
**Reporter:** We’re standing here amidst the festive bustle of the “This is how Lower Austria tastes” Advent Market at the beautiful Palais Niederösterreich.
Can you tell me what brought you to this market today?
**Guest:** [Smiling broadly] It simply wouldn’t feel like Christmas without a visit to this market!
**Reporter:** It’s definitely teeming with holiday spirit! What’s been your favourite part so far?
**Guest:** Oh, it’s hard to choose! The smell of freshly baked goods and mulled wine is absolutely intoxicating. But honestly, the atmosphere is what really gets me.
It’s wonderful to see families enjoying themselves, children wide-eyed with wonder at the decorations, and everyone coming together to celebrate amidst such beautiful surroundings. Especially after a year like this, it’s heartwarming to see traditions lived out and feel that sense of community.
**Reporter:** Governor Mikl-Leitner mentioned that it feels especially important to preserve these traditions in these times. Do you agree?
**Guest:** Absolutely. These markets are more than just shopping opportunities; they’re a window into Austrian culture and history. The focus on local crafts and food helps us connect with the region’s heritage. It’s a reminder of what makes Austria so special.
**Reporter:** Well, thank you for taking the time to chat with us. Enjoy the rest of your day at the market!
**Guest:** Thank you! Frohe Weihnachten!
