Great Knights’ Ball

During Christmas Eve romantic Vienna becomes more beautiful than ever. In the very heart of the Austrian capital in front of the town hall glitters the main 30-meter Christmas tree, next to it, at Maria Teresa Square, traditional ‘Christmas town’ with a never-ending range of gifts and presents is built. Here you will be entertained by stately heralds, incomparable carol singing and Austrian brass bands.

Attendance at the Great Knights’ Ball with its exclusive programme will make your Christmas weekend unforgettable.

The ball will take place at the Hofburg palace complex (240 000 sq. m., – 18 buildings, 54 front staircases, 19 courts, 2600 rooms, and with a maintenance staff of 5000 people). Hofburg was built in 1275 and for more than six centuries was a political centre of the Austrian monarchy; now it serves as the official residence of the Austrian Government.

The Great Knights’ Ball will open the ball season in Vienna. During their history, Vienna balls have always been a symbol of refined glamour and decadence.

The guests will have a unique opportunity to renew previous acquaintances and make new contacts in the informal atmosphere of this high-society event. As the venue of the ball the ‘Zeremoniesaal’ hall has been chosen, being the grandest and the most elegant hall in the whole palace. The hall is decorated with chandeliers presented to the Austrian monarchy by the Russian Emperor Alexander I and still evokes the time of Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth, retaining the atmosphere of refined traditions and style of royal balls of the nineteenth century. Because the hall will only contain two hundred people, you will find yourself in a uniquely elegant and intimate atmosphere, where everyone shares the experience while receiving individual attention. One of the brightest highlights of the Knights’ Ball will become the knighting to the International Order of Grand Master La Valette. The ball organisers remember the ball traditions – the indispensable lottery, gifts and souvenirs for guests as mementos of a memorable evening.

Don’t miss the wonderful dancing, the fine music and an exceptional dinner from chef.

Dress code

For ladies – long evening/ball dress.
For gentlemen – tuxedo, coat tails or uniform or dark suit.

Programme