Vienna exudes happiness, with over 150 official Balls in the first three months of the year, open to both locals and tourists. This tradition began with Emperor Joseph II (1741-1790), who, valuing commoners more than nobility, opened the Hofburg palace ballrooms to the public in 1773. This move introduced the waltz to high society and started the tradition of public balls in Vienna, celebrated during the carnival season. As demand grew, additional ballrooms were built throughout the city.
Over the centuries, Viennese balls have promoted cultural diversity and multiculturalism. Today, events like refugee balls, LGBTI balls, and immigrant balls are as popular as traditional ones such as the Opera Ball and the Vienna Philharmonic Ball. Often created to raise awareness and funds for various causes, these balls have been integral to social integration in Vienna for over 300 years.
