Vienna Xmas market boss is a Muslim who is an Advent fan

The man in charge of Christmas in Vienna is a Muslim who has urged fellow Muslims to enjoy the traditional Christian festival.

Akan Keskin, 55, has been in charge of the Vienna Christmas markets since 2005 and every year spends months in advance planning every detail of the traditional Christian festival.

And once the event gets into full swing he admits he is a daily visitor to enjoy the Christmas spirit.

He told Austrian daily newspaper Heute: “I am here every day. I love the atmosphere.”

Although Muslims do not celebrate Christmas he added: “Festivals should be celebrated as they come, and Christmas with its traditions is to me part of Austria. My brothers in faith should try it some time, it really is fantastic.”