„We should certainly count our blessings, but we should also make our blessings count.“ – Neal A.Maxwell; Heldenplatz Thanksgiving
Last weekend it was that time again: the big Ernte.Dank.Festival took place at Heldenplatz. It was never really a fixed date in my calendar—I knew it existed, but it hadn’t really been on my radar. This year, my husband and I spontaneously decided to stop by on Saturday. And let me tell you: wow. I didn’t expect it to be SO busy. Crowds as far as the eye could see, and yet the atmosphere was somehow relaxed and cheerful. Maybe it was the weather—bright sunshine, blue skies, not a trace of autumnal gray. Perfect, then, for a stroll through the streets, which on this day became a stage for agricultural machinery, tractors, and regional delicacies.
As soon as I walked in, I was completely astounded: there were huge machines parked in the middle of the street, machines that normally harvest wheat, corn, or other crops. As a city dweller, you feel almost dwarfed when such a metal monster suddenly looms up next to you. My husband was immediately captivated and took a leisurely look at everything – as if he were about to set off himself. I had to smile because I knew for sure that the day wouldn’t be boring, technically speaking.
Old tractors
and us two technology fans
The highlight for my husband was definitely the old tractors. I underestimated them a bit at first, thinking: well, it’s just an old tractor. But then we stood there, and he started explaining the differences to me – year of manufacture, technology, why certain parts were so important. And me? Of course, I joined in and tried to understand as much as I could. It’s always funny to watch the two of us suddenly slip into conversations about gears, drivetrains, and exhaust pipes – as if we were secretly preparing for a technical test. But that’s exactly what makes it so much fun: We learn together, laugh, and simply enjoy the moment.
At that moment, Heldenplatz was like a little journey back in time – on one side, the ancient tractors, almost museum pieces, and next to them, the latest high-tech harvesting machines, which probably cost more than an entire family home. Quite a contrast, and precisely for that reason, fascinating.
People, stalls and
a bit of a folk festival feeling
Of course, the festival wasn’t just about machines. Countless stalls were set up around Heldenplatz, offering something for everyone. From regional food to handicrafts to clothing—there was everything. I found the stall selling traditional costumes particularly quirky (and yet charming). You’re walking around in the middle of Vienna among tourists, farmers, and curious city dwellers—and suddenly you can buy yourself a dirndl or lederhosen. I thought it was kind of brilliant and had to laugh.
We tried to stroll around as leisurely as possible, but with so many people, that wasn’t always easy. Nevertheless, it worked because the atmosphere was relaxed and everyone shared a common goal: to look, taste, try, and simply enjoy.
Eat, drink and simply enjoy
And then, of course, comes the best part: the food. You know me – no festival visit is complete without good food. We started with baked potatoes with sour cream and bacon. The portion was huge, just right for two hungry festivalgoers. We also had a large shandy, cold, sparkling, simply perfect for this weather. I could have sat back and relaxed at this point.
But of course—we couldn’t just leave without trying more. To finish off, we got a classic bacon sandwich with mustard and horseradish. Simple, hearty, but just right. With that, a beer, and I swear, you could probably have seen the joy on my face from afar. For me, eating is always more than just filling up—it’s an experience, and on this day, it perfectly rounded it all off.
Well planned and still
full of surprises
What struck me as particularly positive was the organization. Despite the crowds, everything seemed structured and well-thought-out. The stands were clearly laid out, the aisles were wide enough, and even the shows like the sawing contest were planned so that everyone could enjoy them. Heldenplatz is an impressive place anyway, but on this day it had a very special atmosphere. It was as if you were briefly immersed in another world in the middle of Vienna – somewhere between a farm, a folk festival, and big city life.
At one point, my husband laughed and said he felt like he was at a cross between an agricultural exhibition and a street food festival – and that actually sums it up pretty well.
Personal highlights
Looking back on the day, there were three major highlights for me:
1. The old tractors. Not just because my husband was so excited, but because we both got into a technical discussion, and it was just plain fun.
2. The chainsaw competition. I mean, where else do you see something like that? It was simply eye-catching.
3. The food. Classic, honest, down-to-earth, and yet truly enjoyable.
Of course, the crowds were an experience in themselves. I never would have imagined the festival would attract so many. But looking back, that was exactly what created the atmosphere: a bustle of people, machines, and music that you would never otherwise experience at Heldenplatz.
my summary
A festival that lasts
At the end of the day, we went home tired, full, and full of impressions. And I have to honestly say: The Ernte.Dank.Festival at Heldenplatz was a surprise for me in the best sense of the word. I never would have thought I’d have so much fun surrounded by giant harvesters, old tractors, and bacon sandwiches.
For both of us, it wasn’t just an excursion; it was almost a mini-vacation in the middle of the city. We laughed, discussed things, tasted things, and simply enjoyed life. And the best part: It was one of those days when you feel how wonderful it is to be out and about together.
For us, Heldenplatz transformed into a place full of joy this Saturday – and I’m sure we’ll be back next year. Perhaps even hungrier, perhaps with even more technical knowledge about tractors, but certainly just as cheerful.
And if you’re wondering whether a visit is worth it: Yes. Definitely. Go, look around, try a few things – and simply enjoy this mix of country and city, tradition and modernity.
Because that’s exactly what makes Vienna so special: Sometimes all you need is a sunny day, a few old tractors, and a bacon sandwich to find happiness right on Heldenplatz.
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