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Vienna’s prestigious winter ball season has commenced! Anticipated by numerous locals and an expanding number of visitors, these ballroom dancing events have established Vienna’s identity akin to Sacher Torte and the Great Ferris Wheel. Although the ball season officially inaugurated on 11 November, the most sought-after balls occur from New Year’s Eve and continue until Shrove Tuesday (February 25th). Here is GoTravelDaily’s guide for those experiencing the winter ball scene for the first time.
Why you should go
Regardless of your dancing proficiency, there are numerous compelling reasons to experience a Vienna winter ball. These events are integral to Austria’s cultural legacy, similarly to engaging in a traditional coffeehouse visit, allowing history enthusiasts to explore significant architecture in a unique manner. Music aficionados will appreciate a range of live performances, spanning from classical melodies to samba and contemporary dance beats. A classic Wiener Ball serves as an ideal occasion for those who revel in elegance and glamour to dress extravagantly.
Historic tradition
For at least six generations, the local upper and subsequently middle classes have embraced the tradition of winter balls in Vienna. While the imperial ball tradition traces back to the 17th century with Empress Maria Theresa, it was Prince Metternich who popularized balls on a larger scale during the Congress of Vienna in 1814–15.
The different types of ball
Although there is no formal categorization of balls in Vienna, classifying the approximately 400 events assists attendees in determining which ball aligns with their preferences. Below is a concise overview of various types of balls available.
Traditional balls
As traditions play a significant role in Viennese balls, noteworthy traditional events such as the Wiener Philharmonikerball, the Vienna Opera Ball, and the Ball of the Coffee Brewers are celebrated occasions. Hosted at some of the most prestigious historical venues, they ensure a grand opening ceremony, a formal dress code, and ample chances to master the Viennese waltz. Many balls are named after the local guilds and professional organizations that sponsor them, such as the Ball of the Legal Professionals, the Confectioners’ Ball , and the Medical Doctors’ Ball.
Masked and themed balls
In addition to the standard offerings, select traditional balls provide extra entertainment. For instance, the Rudolfina Redoute is a masked ball where attendees must wear masks until they are removed during the ceremonial demasking quadrille at midnight. In recent years, several traditional balls have introduced themed programs; for instance, the Ball of the Legal Professionals is set to celebrate the “Golden Twenties” during its February event.
Balls with gala dinners
A few traditional balls feature gala dinners early in the evening, typically preceding the opening ceremonies. Among the most renowned is the New Year’s Eve Gala at the Vienna City Hall, along with the Hofburg Silvesterball. Given their popularity among locals, travelers often encounter challenges in securing tickets; therefore, events such as the Johann Strauss Ball, Palais Auersperg Silvesterball, and the Hofburg Silvesterball have targeted their marketing towards tourists.
Folkloric balls
If you wish to experience Austrian folklore in a festive Dirndl (women’s traditional dress) or folkloric suit, consider attending the Kathreintanz, Steirerball, Jägerball, Tirolerball, or Ball der Vorarlberger. Most of these events celebrate specific Austrian regions and, although open to everyone, tend to attract individuals with ties to those locales.
Local district and school balls
A promising method to discover Vienna winter balls beyond the imperial allure is to explore the local neighborhoods. Experience the unique charm of Hietzing’s community or attend the Christian Rochusball in the central Landstrasse area.
LGBT+ and contemporary balls
Similarly to the Rainbow Parade, Vienna’s LGBT community hosts a vibrant celebration at the Wiener Regenbogenball. Furthermore, several contemporary balls embrace diverse cultures and themes, exemplified by the Chinese New Year Ball, the Refugees’ Ball (a charity event for refugees), and the Vegan Ball.
Key ball venues
Generally, the longer a specific ball’s tradition and its social prestige, the more spectacular the venue. For instance, the Vienna Opera Ball is the only event held at the Wiener Staatsoper. Notable venues include the Hofburg Imperial Palace, where the Association of Vienna’s Coffee Brewers organizes an annual ball. Other glamorous sites encompass the Musikverein, home to the Vienna Philharmonic Ball and host of the popular Techniker Cercle, as well as the art nouveau-style Wiener Konzerthaus, where the Bonbonball occurs. Another notable location is the Vienna City Hall, featuring its neo-gothic ballroom and arcades, which hosts a variety of balls including the New Year’s Eve Gala.
Ball etiquette
Before attending a ball, specific etiquette requires deliberation regarding attire and ticket purchasing. Unless one is a 16-year-old debutante, white ball gowns are inappropriate. For women, long evening dresses are generally expected, whereas men’s attire varies among tuxedos, tailcoats, or standard black suits, with options for ties.
During a ball, participants may freely traverse the various dance halls. Seating is typically reserved for those who purchase additional table seat tickets. Be prepared to share tables with up to ten other guests.
In terms of dancing, participants generally remain within their social groups, predominantly dancing with acquaintances. Nevertheless, if the master of ceremonies calls out “Damenwahl” (ladies’ choice), women may select their dance partners at their discretion. In recent years, the option of hiring taxi dancers has emerged for single ladies or those with hesitant partners and can be found at major events.
Make it happen
Ticket sales for most traditional balls in January and February commence the previous autumn (notably, the Vienna Opera Ball has ticket sales that start nearly a year in advance and notoriously sell out quickly). Seated tickets often sell out first, so guests may have better luck with flaneur tickets, which grant entry without assigned seats. Tickets can be purchased directly from the ball’s official websites. Certain hotels, including Imperial, Sacher, and Altstadt, can assist guests with securing ball tickets.
Ball gowns, tuxedos, and tailcoats can be purchased in Vienna at Flossmann, or rented from Vondru. Women may also consider scheduling a hair salon appointment in advance.
