TORONTO — It was a dazzling get-together indeed, as the lucky participants at a recent Swarovski Kristallwelten (Crystal Worlds) event were given the opportunity to create their very own piece of jewellery using Swarovski crystals.

Presented in partnership with the Vienna Tourist Board, the Toronto event was hosted by David Zipperle, head of Global Tourism Competence Center, Swarovski Kristallwelten in Austria.

AMpm Canadaʻs Armando Mendonça, who serves as Trade Liaison in Canada for the Vienna Tourist Board, was also on hand.

Top travel advisors and trade media were also treated to a three-course meal plus an art- and info-fuelled presentation.

Swarovski Crystal Worlds isnʻt just one of the largest Swarovski stores in the world – and one of most visited attractions in Europe. Itʻs also a haven of green space in view of snow-capped Tyrolean mountains. There are numerous attractions here too, including a black-and-white carousel, art galleries with 15 permanent exhibits, award-winning dining from Daniels Kristallwelten by DoN and a shopping experience that combines retail with a museum of a curated Swarovski collection of items.

Only 15 minutes from Innsbruck, Swarovski Crystal Worlds is closest to Munich’s international airport and a two-hour train ride from Vienna. Itʻs located in the town of Wattens, and the attraction also provides transfers on its electric buses from Innsbruck. The cost of the ride is included in the Innsbruck Card, a visitor’s card that is like a passport to public transportation, attractions and events for one reasonable price.

Swarovski Crystal Worlds attracts its share of families too, thanks to the kid-friendly playtower, playground, interactive exhibits, special programming for young visitors and more.

When guests arrive at Swarovski Crystal Worlds, theyʻre greeted by the Giant – the gateway to the Chambers of Wonder and the retail shop. The iconic Giant was created in 1995 by Austrian multimedia artist Andre Heller to mark Swarovskiʻs 100th anniversary. The Giantʻs head is covered with moss and his face, embedded in a hillside, is crafted from hundreds of crystals, with a waterfall cascading from his mouth.

Renowned artists such as Yayoi Kusama, James Turrell and Mexican/Canadian Rafael Lozano-Hemmer are currently exhibiting their works at Swarovski Crystal Worlds, inspired by the light and colour that also informs the designs at Swarovski.

Permanent exhibits include ʻSilent Night,ʻ the late Alexander McQueen’s take on winter magic in a room set at -10C, to keep it cool all year round.

Thereʻs also ʻThe Art of Performance,ʻ where you can spot Marilyn Monroe’s famed gown (Kim Kardashian borrowed it for New York City’s Met Gala). Monroe wore the gown to sing Happy Birthday to then-U.S. President John F. Kennedy in 1962. ʻThe Art of Performanceʻ also showcases outfits and props from many Hollywood films, including Rocket Man and Cinderella’s glass slipper. Fun fact: the years-long association between Swarovski and the Oscars has led to numerous breathtaking crystal installations on the famous stage where Hollywoodʻs top performers receive their awards.

This year Swarovski is celebrating its 130th anniversary under the theme ʻ130 Years of Joy.ʻ Special, limited-edition designs, including the brand’s iconic swan emblem, will be available as part of the initiative. At the Swarovski Creators Lab, there are collaborations with equally iconic brands and designers, such as Puma footwear, Oakley eyewear and Off-White fashion.

Swarovski Crystal Worlds is a fantastical way to spend a day – with outdoor installations such as the Crystal Cloud, which looks like a series of clouds elevated over a reflecting pool, made from approximately 800,000 crystals.

Travel advisors can secure perks and bonuses for their FIT clients, group bookings and even MICE groups, at Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens, and also at the company’s retail stores in Innsbruck and Vienna.

For more information, visit Swarovski Kristallwelten B2B Offers | Groups, FIT and MICE. You can also check out Kristallwelten.swarovski.com/en.

Lead image caption: AMpm Canadaʻs Armando Mendonça, who serves as Trade Liaison in Canada for the Vienna Tourist Board (left) with David Zipperle, head of the Global Tourism Competence Center, Swarovski Kristallwelten in Austria (photos courtesy Annie Cicvaric)