Vienna City Hall to become a children’s city again

Vienna City Hall will host the children’s city “Wienopolis” from August 24 to 28, ORF reports. Children aged eight to 13 can learn how a city works, stand for political office and try out different professions.

The event in the City Hall’s arcaded courtyard will include an employment office, a training centre, shops, a stage and its own currency, the Holli Cent. Children can earn the money in the city and spend it on snacks and drinks in its shops.

A children’s city government will also be elected. The mayor and councillors will jointly decide on laws and rules for “Wienopolis”. All children can vote or stand for office. They can also try jobs such as reporting for a newspaper or television programme.

Politicians will visit the children’s city and answer questions from the children. The week is organised as part of the WIENXTRA holiday programme. Entry is free and no registration is required.

Accompanying adults will receive a visitor visa at the City Hall security desk. It is valid for 30 minutes, after which they must return to the adult zone.

Children younger than eight or older than 13 may also visit, but only for a limited time with a visa. Younger siblings can attend a puppet theatre performance twice a day in the City Hall’s Coat of Arms Hall.