Fasching — Austria's version of carnival — takes over Vienna every February, and for families with children it's one of the cheeriest times of year. Costumes are compulsory, Krapfen (the traditional jam doughnuts) appear everywhere, and the city puts on a surprisingly good spread of events for all ages.
The venues below organise children's Fasching events most years. Exact dates, times and booking requirements change annually, so check their websites and Instagram pages from January onwards. Popular events fill up fast.
Fasching Carnival for the Little Ones (0–4 years)
BioLino Institut, 6th district
A festively decorated baby café with a play area — usually split into two age groups (0–2.5 years and 1–3 years). A relaxed, unhurried afternoon where small children can run about while parents chat. Booking required. → biolino.at
Lemoni Cafe, 16th district
A children's disco with music, food and face painting — a good option for toddlers and preschoolers who like a bit more noise and action. Booking required. → lemoni.kids
Little Suns, 21st district
A cosy Fasching afternoon with a snack, music, confetti and balloons — exactly the right scale for very young children. Booking required. → littlesuns.at
MuSe, 10th district
A lively Fasching party with a disco and animation, usually for children up to age 9. Booking required. → Instagram @muse_wien
Coco Loco, 16th district
Craft stations, a costume show, disco and surprise activities — a well-rounded afternoon for children who like variety. Booking required. → Instagram @cocoloco_wien
Fasching Carnival in Vienna For Older Children and the Whole Family
Kinderfreunde Carnival Parade in the Prater, 2nd district
The highlight of the Vienna children's Fasching calendar. A free parade through the Wurstelprater with animation, activity stations, live music and traditional Krapfen for the children. No booking required — just turn up in costume. → kinderfreunde.at/veranstaltungen
Kindermuseum Schloss Schönbrunn, 13th district
A puzzle rally and Fasching programme for children from age 4. Tickets need to be booked in advance. → kindermuseumschoenbrunn.at
Kinderfreunde district events (multiple districts)
The Wiener Kinderfreunde run Fasching parties across many districts — typically with a stage programme, craft stations, face painting and a buffet. Booking required. → kinderfreunde.at/veranstaltungen
Indoor playground Seversaal, 16th district
Punch and Judy, a quiz, a magician and a stage programme — Fasching with a proper programme rather than just a disco. Booking required. → kinderfreunde.at/veranstaltungen
Practical tip
Most of these venues publish their Fasching programmes in January — some as early as mid-January. Follow them on Instagram for the quickest updates. Spots at the smaller events go within days of opening.
One last thought: after an hour or two in a polyester costume, most children are ready to peel it off and just run around. Babbily leggings are the perfect thing to change into — breathable, comfortable and colourful enough to keep the Fasching spirit going without the scratchy bits.