We were so fortunate to have been here to enjoy the Viennese Christmas season last year. It is so lovely — the markets are inviting and festive, the lights make everything seem magical, and the entire spirit of the season here focuses on the religious part of Christmas and being together, rather than on shopping.

Plus, it starts early, and without the guilt of short-changing anything else. There’s no Thanksgiving here, and very little Halloween, so once the autumn harvest has been celebrated, the door is open for Christmas.

The first of the Christmas markets open in just over two weeks, and several of the first ones are close to my house. I love this time of year, and I’m excited to begin to enjoy the wonder and warmth of Christmastime.