Vienna shines with lights: the Ferris wheel lights up at Christmas time!

Vienna shines with lights: the Ferris wheel lights up at Christmas time!

On Friday evening, November 21, 2025, a crucial moment for the festive season was set in Vienna: the Christmas lights were ceremoniously switched on. Mayor Michael Ludwig (SPÖ) and Margarete Kriz-Zwittkovits, Vice President of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, recalled the tradition and importance of this event. At the ceremony, the main actors of the Austro Christmas comedy “Aufputzt is”, Gery Seidl and Thomas Mraz, together with district leader Alexander Nikolai (SPÖ), granted the symbolic switch on button for the Vienna Ferris Wheel, which will now be fully illuminated for the first time in its 128-year history. 750 meters of cable and 22,500 controllable LED light points were laid for the impressive lighting, which clearly underlines the electrifying atmosphere in Vienna's Prater. courier reports that the winter market at Riesenradplatz, which opens from November 21st to January 6th, offers a variety of attractions.

The winter market is no ordinary market: with an area of ​​over 15,000 m², it is the largest in Austria and offers visitors up to 35 live concerts as well as 31 food and gift stands. Under the motto “The Prater rocks!” A varied musical program is presented here from Wednesday to Sunday. Well-known bands play gospel, pop and soul, while food trucks and original gift stands enrich the fair. Admission is free, there is no obligation to consume. A festive atmosphere is guaranteed and the event is a big highlight in the Vienna Advent calendar.

Unique Christmas markets in Vienna

But the Christmas season in Vienna has more to offer than the winter market at Riesenradplatz. There are a total of 14 large Advent markets in the city, covering a variety of themes and styles. In particular, the oldest Advent market in Vienna, the Altwiener Christkindlmarkt on the Freyung, opens its doors and brings a nostalgic atmosphere until December 23rd. The Christmas market at Stephansplatz is also a popular attraction, where the Christmas spirit comes to life around the majestic St. Stephen's Cathedral. Vienna Unlimited has put together an overview of the markets.

The Schönbrunn Palace Park is also particularly worth seeing: baroque light elements shine under the motto “Imperial Lights”. With entry prices of 19.20 euros for adults and 11.20 euros for children, visitors also get their money's worth here. At other locations, such as the Bank Austria Park in Floridsdorf, additional light installations by André Heller will be presented. These are illuminated at night and create a magical atmosphere.

Advent anticipation and sustainability

On Döblinger Hauptstrasse, 30 trees are illuminated with around 20 warm white LED fairy lights. This not only creates a festive atmosphere, but also sets an important ecological example. District leader Daniel Resch (ÖVP) points out that this lighting is part of his election promises and contributes to the sustainable design of Vienna.

In summary, Vienna offers a colorful kaleidoscope of festive activities, lights and musical performances this Advent season that will make the eyes of young and old sparkle. From the winter market to the atmospheric street lighting, no one can escape the Christmas spirit. Winter market and its numerous attractions will increase the anticipation of the festival even further.