Black sandy soil, lots of sun, but also regular downpours: The arable soils around Laa an der Thaya, in Austria's Weinviertel region, are ideal for growing onions. The crop grows here on more than 300 hectares - very slowly, without artificial irrigation.
This makes them firmer, finer-fibred and more durable.

Harvest time for the yellow and red onions is August. Then the inhabitants of the small town on the Czech border celebrate a big onion festival. There are onion specialities from the local innkeepers to taste, and the region's music bands and top entertainment bands provide the atmosphere. Farmers and direct marketers offer their products.

Those who like it sporty can take part in an archery competition over the three days. And for those interested in culture, the regional museums - the South Moravian Museum of Local History, the Carriage Museum or the Beer Museum - open their doors. Free bus trips take you to the surrounding area, for example to Neudorf in the Weinviertel.