WHAT'S NEW?! #44 - VILLACH IN NOVEMBER 2024

The welcome2villach team collects the most important news from around Villach in a compact, monthly “News Story”, with links to more information. In November, there are updates on the protection of valuable natural areas, a photovoltaic initiative, the opening of the education campus, and this year's Advent program.

• New Association Advocates for Nature Conservation: The newly founded association “Naturerbe Villach” is dedicated to the protection of biodiversity areas. The board, composed of renowned experts, brings significant expertise to the initiative. The first project aims to preserve and protect valuable natural areas around the Petschnigteich, a gem in the St. Leonhard district. The city of Villach supports the association's launch with a grant of 15,000 euros.
   
• Launch of Solar Power Open Space: In Zauchen, preparations are underway for Villach's first open space photovoltaic plant. This innovative measure is part of the PV strategy aimed at generating more solar power by 2030 than is needed for municipal buildings. The four-hectare facility will supply electricity for about 1,000 households and help reduce climate-damaging emissions.
   
• Opening of Education Campus: The new GPS training and education campus “Campo” has opened in the tpv Technology Park Villach. This modern educational building spans 2,850 square meters of usable space, including workshops, laboratory areas, and classrooms, offering diverse opportunities for the training and education of apprentices and professionals. This will create up to 300 training positions — another step toward a future-oriented educational landscape in Villach.
   
• Consolidation of Construction Sites through New Guidelines: To better coordinate construction sites in the city and reduce traffic congestion, a new guideline has been introduced. The "Aufgrabungsrichtlinie Neu" aims to ensure that utility providers lay their lines together to minimize the number of excavation works. This should make construction projects more efficient and enhance the quality of life for residents.
   
• Impuls Award for Nikolai Quarter: The Nikolai Quarter has been awarded the Impuls Award, highlighting efforts towards sustainable urban development and the creation of vibrant living spaces. This recognition underscores the importance of innovative projects for the city.
   
• Lesestadt Festival Brings Joy of Reading: The Lesestadt Festival at the Alpen-Adria Media Library is a unique celebration of children's literature in Carinthia. It offers a colorful experience and a platform for young readers to celebrate the joy of reading. Various events and readings will transform Villach into a literary center for children starting November 11th for two weeks.

• Advent Magic for the Little Ones: The Villach Advent, which will be ceremoniously opened on November 15th at 6 p.m., promises a festive experience for the whole family. There are more activities for children and families this year than ever before! With markets, concerts, and activities such as the popular carousel, the "Cookie Paradise," and the photo point rally featuring well-known children's heroes, the pre-Christmas season will become a special event in Villach.
   
• Ceremonial Renewal of the City Partnership with Tolmin: After ten years, Villach is renewing its existing city partnership with Tolmin, which is based on a chance meeting and cross-border friendship. This special partnership promotes exchange and collaboration in various areas.
   
• Presentation of the Royal Couples: On November 9th, 2024, the long-awaited reveal of Villach's Carnival (“Fasching”) secret will take place! After the award ceremony for the winning groups of the 2024 Fasching parade at 11:11 a.m. on Nikolaiplatz, the new Villach Fasching royal couples will be presented to the public. Visitors can expect a colorful program featuring mini Lei Lei stars and musical entertainment as a prelude to the upcoming Fasching season.
   
• Events: In November, residents of Villach can look forward to a diverse program of events. On November 7th, the exciting exhibition “Ki in der Kunst,” showcasing the works of three artists, will open at the Freihausgasse Gallery. A varied theater program will entertain a young audience during the Stella*24 Festival from November 18th to 22nd. Additionally, there will be numerous other cultural highlights, including readings, concerts, and exhibitions that will bring the city to life.