More than a third of people in Austria plan to attend at least one ball this season, setting aside an average budget of €250 per person, according to a recent survey.

A poll conducted by Repubblika for the Austrian Retail Association found that 29% of respondents intended to go to at least one ball this year, with a further 5% planning to attend several. This marks a slight drop from last year, when 38% expressed interest. However, as of mid-January, 14% were still undecided, meaning attendance figures could yet rise.

“The ball season is not just a social event – it’s an important stimulus for the economy,” said Rainer Will, spokesperson for the Retail Association, highlighting how balls give a boost to the fashion industry, perfumeries, jewellers and florists during what is otherwise a quiet period for retailers.

Which Balls Are the Most Popular?

Carnival and masquerade balls remain the top choice, drawing in 32% of attendees. Close behind are school, college and university balls, attracting 30%. Events organised by the fire brigade, police or military are also popular (20%), followed by farmers’ balls (17%). Meanwhile, 16% plan to attend regional or municipal balls, while 7% favour musician balls.

Vienna: The City of Balls, But Not Ballgoers

Despite hosting around 450 balls – more than anywhere else in the country – Vienna has the lowest turnout. Just 29% of residents plan to attend an event this year. Enthusiasm is highest in the south, with 39% of people in Styria and Carinthia planning to go to at least one ball, followed closely by Tyrol and Vorarlberg (38%).

Younger Generations Leading the Way

Gen Z (18–28) are the most eager, with 46% planning to take part. Millennials (29–43) are close behind, at 45%. Interest drops among Generation X (44–59), with only 29% intending to attend, while 26% of Baby Boomers (60+) say they’ll be joining the festivities.