Vienna ball season takes a virtual twirl
Usually at this time of year, Austria’s capital is awash with glamorous frocks, primped locks and dapper gents in tuxedos.
Usually at this time of year, Austria’s capital is awash with glamorous frocks, primped locks and dapper gents in tuxedos.
The winter ball season dates back to the early 1800s and sees about 450 of these grand events staged in some of Vienna’s most historic buildings. At the extravagant end of the spectrum is the ball held at the Vienna State Opera. It attracts more than 5000 guests, who consume 1300 bottles of champagne, not to mention 5000 sausages.
Keeping the dancing dream alive, Austria’s national tourism office has created a website devoted to the waltz where browsers can delve into ball culture, listen to some familiar Strauss tunes and even learn how to twirl. Eins, zwei, drei …