With just a matter of weeks to go before the festive frenzy of Christmas begins, it’s well and truly Christmas market season.
Each year, millions of Britons are drawn to Europe to bask in the warm, cosy atmosphere of Christmas markets, towering trees, and glittering handmade decorations… not forgetting the beer.
Beyond the popular Christmas markets of Munich, Cologne, Salzburg, and Budapest, another European city offers a captivating yuletide experience.
Graz, Austria’s second-largest city after Vienna, promises a unique Christmas buzz for those who venture there, reports MyLondon.
As the historic heart of the Stygia region, it boasts two world heritage sites; the old town, reputedly the largest medieval district in Europe, and Eggenberg Palace.
The Austrian National Tourist Office notes that Graz’s Advent celebrations begin with the enchanting Advent Market in front of City Hall, Hauptplaz, running from November 18 to December 24.
Artisans sell unique crafts and gastronomic delights are aplenty, including the fiery “Feuerzangenbowle” a heady mix of wine and rum igniting the festive spirit.
The market is a hit with kids too, thanks to a merry traditional carousel.
Nestled in the Old Town, the oldest Christmas market in Graz is set outside the Franciscan church, also available from November 18 to December 24.
Shoppers will be captivated by authentic farm-made goods and can indulge in Punsch and the iconic Austrian Gluhwein for cosy moments.
Entry to the church comes with charming extras like live sheep in the nativity scene, a carousel for youngsters, and whimsical toys.
The third Christmas market in Graz, a favourite among visitors, is located in the enchanting Glockenspiel square. It offers a variety of arts and crafts, with local direct marketers and caterers providing Styrian delicacies.
A host of handicraft demonstrations invite people of all ages to join in. The market operates from November 18 to December 24.
The Christmas market at Mariahilferplatz transforms the square into WonderLEND, an alternative festive fair featuring a big wheel and curling rink.
Tourists can peruse the market stalls to the rhythm of Indie music, running from November 18 to December 23.
For a breathtaking visual spectacle, Graz visitors can marvel at an Ice Nativity in the Landhaushof Courtyard in Herrengasse. This features life-sized figures illuminated in LED brilliance.
Since 1996, this unique nativity scene, carved from 50 tons of crystal-clear ice, has been exhibited annually in the Landhaushof, a stunning renaissance yard in Graz.
The courtyard display is open to the public from November 25 to January 6.
The sixth Christmas market, the Arts and Crafts Market on Farberplatz Square, runs from November 24 to December 23, showcasing handmade goods crafted from cloth, clay, wood, metal, paper, wax, and glass.
