This post originally appeared on VICE Alps.Like it or not, Christmas markets are a part of the international holiday landscape. And, much like Starbucks, they are equally bizarre wherever you go. Growing up in Austria, I've always thought our Christkindlmärktes resembled a chamber of horrors packed with things I detest: crappy toys, drunken OAPs, bratwurst with sauerkraut, a constant need to urinate, folk music, and rum punch on the soles of my shoes.
Annons
However, now that I like to say I've grown up, I've realised they are also as much an irrevocable part of the Austrian soul as Schnitzel and big-bosomed ladies, and as good an excuse for drinking spirits after dark as they come.Here are some photos from this year's market in Vienna.
See more of Stefanie's work here.More from Austria:The Christian Organisation Trying to "Save" the Austrian Youth With Stories About Dead CelebritiesLooks Like Austria Has No Problems At AllUrlich Seidl Can Really Make People Think He Cares About Them
See more of Stefanie's work here.More from Austria:The Christian Organisation Trying to "Save" the Austrian Youth With Stories About Dead CelebritiesLooks Like Austria Has No Problems At AllUrlich Seidl Can Really Make People Think He Cares About Them