So, Christmas means lots of decorations in Vienna. Like everywhere. It’s cool. Since it’s cold and foggy and dark by 4:15pm, the lights make it more fun and sparkly.

And then there’s Punsch. Christmas markets have lots of Punsch stands. But they are also just on the street. Little random sheds selling hot juice.

I get Kinderpunsch. It’s basically juice that is so hot it tries to melt your tongue. Adults get regular Punsch, which is the hot juice but with alcohol in it. Sometimes there’s flavor choices – like berry or chocolate. And then there’s something called Glühwein. It sounds like “glue-wine” which is GROSS, because who drinks glue?!?! But apparently, it’s hot wine with spices.

The markets have special mugs. You have to pay a pfand or deposit (AKA a mug rental fee). If you return the mug, you get the money back ... or if you don’t and you take the mug home, you don’t get any money back. Some people collect the mugs. Mom says it’s a thing. I say it’s more useful than those tiny spoons people hang on the wall. Mom agrees but never wants to carry around sticky mugs after we drink the Punsch. So, no Christmas mugs for us.