
As Vienna’s ball season gets into full swing, many of this year’s events will celebrate the 200th anniversary of Johann Strauss the Younger, the composer of the iconic Blue Danube waltz.
A Sweet Start
The festivities kick off on 16 January with the Confectioners’ Ball (Zuckerbäckerball) at the Hofburg Palace, hosted by Vienna’s pastry chefs. The following day, 17 January, the Flower Ball – widely considered the most beautifully decorated event of the season – will light up the Rathaus (City Hall). This year’s theme, The Waltz King, honours Johann Strauss, with Vienna’s city gardeners creating a breathtaking display of 100,000 blooms to transform the venue into a floral wonderland.
Musical Prestige
One of the most prestigious events of the season is the Vienna Philharmonic Ball, taking place on 23 January in the Golden Hall of the Musikverein. The occasion features a unique touch: its own opening fanfare, composed by Richard Strauss (no relation to Johann Strauss). Tickets are already on sale and are expected to sell out quickly.
Tradition at the Hunter’s Ball
On 27 January, the Hofburg will host the Hunter’s Ball (Jägerball), an event with a strict dress code. Women are expected to wear knee-length dirndls or traditional outfits, while men must don hunting tuxedos, traditional suits or lederhosen paired with a jacket and tie.
Coffee and Waltzes
The season continues on 21 February with the Coffee Brewers’ Ball (Ball der Kaffeesiederinnen). For one evening, the Hofburg transforms into what is billed as the world’s largest coffee house.
Farewell to Richard Lugner
The grand finale of the season is the Vienna Opera Ball, held on 27 February at the Vienna State Opera. It is the city’s most iconic ball and a fitting close to the season.
However, this year will be marked by the absence of one of its most loyal attendees. Richard Lugner, the construction tycoon and long-time Opera Ball regular, passed away last year. He leaves behind a legacy as one of the event’s most dedicated patrons.
The ball season is not just a cultural highlight but also a major boost for the economy. Last year, it brought in over €185 million and attracted around 560,000 visitors, according to the Vienna Chamber of Commerce.