Vienna Opera Ball

The Vienna Opera Ball, known in German as the Wiener Opernball, is an annual Austrian society event that takes place in the esteemed building of the Vienna State Opera in Vienna, Austria. This prestigious ball occurs on the Thursday preceding Ash Wednesday, making it one of the highlights of the Viennese carnival season, alongside the New Year Concert.

The Vienna Opera Ball's history can be traced back to 1814, during the time when the crowned heads of Europe and the aristocracy sought entertainment after the Napoleonic wars. The first ball in the opera house took place in 1877 as a soirée, with subsequent balls being redoute, a French term for masquerade balls or costume parties, where the ladies wore their masks until midnight. From 1878 until 1899, such redoute balls took place around two to three times a year. The first redoute after World War I occurred in 1921, with proceeds going to the pension fund of the two state theaters. These events were also called Opernredoute. The first ball to be named "Opera Ball" was held in 1935 under the honorary patronage of the Federal Chancellor, but was suspended during World War II. It was revived after the war and has been held annually ever since, with the exception of 1991, when it was cancelled due to the Persian Gulf War, and 2021 and 2022, both due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Vienna Opera Ball is a significant event in the Viennese social calendar, attracting the heads of state and government, the political and industrial elite, members of high society, and their guests. The price for the entry tickets is the highest of all the Viennese balls. The ball is under the patronage of the President of the Republic of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen.

The dress code for the Vienna Opera Ball is formal, with women required to wear large, long evening gowns and white opera gloves, while men must don black tuxedos with tails. The event is known for its elegance and sophistication, with international guests from the world of culture, business, politics, sports, and science in attendance.

Each year, almost overnight, the auditorium of the Vienna State Opera is transformed into a large ballroom. On the eve of the event, the rows of seats are removed from the stalls, and a new floor, level with the stage, is built. The Vienna Opera Ball highlights the enduring tradition and elegance of Viennese society, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all who attend.