Austria attracts international attention with numerous ball events and is therefore considered the heartland of ball nights. Although the Opera Ball is usually mentioned in the same breath as festival balls, there is another city that competes with Vienna in this area – Graz.
The second largest city in Austria has caught up considerably in terms of the range of balls on offer and has a huge selection of balls. And it doesn’t bother me at all that Graz is a young student city. Whether young or old, Graz’s ball events enjoy great popularity.
Opernredoute
The Opernredoute takes place annually in the opera house. Numerous leading personalities of the country from the fields of business, politics and culture usually take part in this extravagant event.
Although not as traditional and historical as the Vienna Opera Ball, it is nevertheless considered the most important ball event in Graz. Every year, different Styrian dance teachers are responsible for the entry. Besides honoring the artists of the house, there is a special highlight at midnight.
The dress code is just as it is on a fine ball; elegant evening gown, for men tailcoat or tuxedo are obligatory.
Bauernbundball
With about 16,000 visitors, the Bauernbundball is one of the largest balls in Europe. It takes place annually in the Stadthalle Graz and is therefore easily accessible to the public. Traveling to the ball by public transport is also recommended for this number of guests.
Apart from fun and a relaxed atmosphere, customs and traditions are very important. Thus, delicacies can be tasted from local farmers, but the traditional Schuhplattln should not be missing. It goes without saying that the guests are expected to wear traditional costume. But in addition to traditional costumes, the Bauernbundball also has a lot of modern things to offer. Every year, various local music artists perform, with folk rock’n’roller Andreas Gabalier on everyone’s lips.
Disco and cocktail bar complete the offer. For fun and entertainment is provided with photo boxes. Such boxes enjoy great popularity and have become an indispensable element of every ball.
Feuerwehrball
Every year, the Graz fire brigade ensures the safety of the city with several thousand operations. Once a year there is therefore a ball in honour of the fire brigade.
It is organized by the professional fire brigade and the volunteer fire brigade of Graz. The dress code is of course the dress uniform for firefighters. With the Seifenfabrik Graz an extremely casual location was organized. Various bands, DJs and performers provide musical entertainment. The fire brigade ball takes place every year in mid-January.
Schloßbergball
It is only taking place for the third time and is therefore an extremely young event. With the event taking place at the end of June, the Schloßbergball is not based on the typical ball season, but rather resembles a modern summer night ball. Ties or bow ties do not have to be worn by men, the top of the shirt can be left open. Cocktail dresses are very popular with the ladies. With bars, a pleasure garden, chill-out islands and the Discorama, the motto is “party until the doctor comes”.
Ball der Technik
With TU Graz and the Joanneum, the Styrian capital is a hotspot when it comes to progress and technology. In the Graz Congress, right in the city centre, several halls are occupied for the Ball of Technology. After a speech by the Rector of Graz University of Technology, theme events such as “Dancing Electrons” or “The Wonder of Microelectrics” will be offered.
The musical mix of orchestra, big bands and DJs promises plenty of entertainment for the young students.
Tuntenball
Like the Ball of Technology, this will take place in the Congress. As a Charity Gala, the event promotes tolerance of other people and their sexual orientation. Already held for the 31st time, the same dress code applies as at the Vienna Live Ball; wear what you want, but the more shrill the better.
In order to emphasize the equality of the people also among the guests, there are no separate VIP tickets. With bright colours, freaky designs and lots of naked skin, the night is celebrated with numerous acts and highlights.
All in One Ball
This ball is being held for the fifth time, the third time at the Graz Congress. What is it about? Similar to the Tuntenball, the organizer wants to set a sign for a harmonious cooperation of different people.
Organized by the dance school “Conny & Dado”, as well as the association “Dance and make a difference”, the emphasis is on dancing. While different dance artists give their best, dancers with limitations are also integrated into the performances. Live bands and DJs provide party atmosphere. Attention must be paid to classic evening dress. Four different halls are divided into the respective dance styles. So you can choose between Lindy Hop, Tango, Salsa and Swing.