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New Year’s Eve sees the start of the Ball season in Vienna. And the one to get the season going is ‘Le Grand Bal’ at the Imperial Palace, Hofburg.
The Imperial Palace
The oldest part of the Imperial Palace Hofburg dates from the 13th century. It has been the home of some of Europe’s most powerful people, including various members of the Habsburg dynasty. Hofburg Palace was their winter home, whilst they preferred to spend summer at Schönbrunn Palace.
Hofburg Palace was the seat of Sovereigns and Kings until 1806, when it became the home of the Emperor of Austria. In 1918 the Austro-Hungarian empire was disbanded, but Hofburg remained the seat of power in Austria. Since 1279 it has been the home of the Austrian Federal Government and continues to be the official residence of the President of Austria.
Housed at Hofburg Palace are:
- various ministerial residences
- a chapel
- museums
- the Imperial Library
- the treasury
- the national theatre
- the world famous Spanish Riding School
- stables and a Congress Centre.
Le Grand Bal
The first of the Viennese Balls is Le Grand Bal, also known as the Kaiserball. This is held in the glittering Imperial staterooms of the Hofberg Palace, which are richly decorated for the festive season.
The musical extravaganza includes classical, jazz, and opera. There are performances by ballet troupes and opera stars to entertain the guests. And the breath-taking beauty of the Lipizzaner horses from the Hofreitschule with their liveried riders, amaze with their elegant and unbelievable routines.
The fun begins early in the day when dance lessons for those unsure of their footing are held at the Palace. Then as evening draws in the Vienna Hofburg Orchestra delights the discerning revellers with a concert of classical music. Dining and dancing takes place until carriages are called in the early hours of the New Year.
To find out more about Le Grand Bal and book your tickets, see here.
As the highlight of the Viennese Ball season, this is a white tie affair. Make sure you know what is expected by checking out the information before you book your ticket!
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