Carnival magic in Vienna: Quadrille and Alles Waltz!” enthusiastic!

Carnival magic in Vienna: Quadrille and Alles Waltz!” enthusiastic!

Today, November 11th, 2025, the carnival and ball season opened in Vienna at 11:11 a.m. with a truly traditional program. Just in time for the festive hour, the tried and tested slogan “Alles Waltz!” was heard, which made the dancers’ hearts beat faster. On the Graben in the inner city, 25 Viennese dance schools invite everyone who enjoys dancing to take part in a colorful quadrille.

The event was open to everyone interested in dance, regardless of whether they were beginners or professionals - everyone was allowed to show off their skills here! Guests didn't have to worry about strict wardrobe requirements, which contributed to the relaxed and happy atmosphere. Anyone who would like to try their hand at dancing has the opportunity throughout the ball season to shine in one of the numerous intensive courses in classical dances that the Viennese dance schools offer.

Tradition and myth of 11.11.

But what makes November 11th the ideal time for the start of carnival? According to tradition, this day is considered the beginning of the foolish time, and the time 11:11 not only has an entertaining sound, but is also a symbol of questioning the order in society. The number has an exciting meaning in the context of pagan and Christian celebrations, as well as in rural customs. As the Augsburger Allgemeine explains, 11 stands between the biblical numbers 10 and 12 and is linked to the history of carnival, which dates back to the 19th century.

The opening of the Vienna ball season, which runs from November 11th to Shrove Tuesday, is not only a competition between the best dancers, but also a sociable start to a time when around 450 balls take place in Vienna. The first highlight on the program is the New Year's Eve Ball in the Hofburg, which marks the start of the festive ball night. Many guests let the planning juices flow before the feast and enjoy the traditional delicacies, from Sacher sausages to goulash soup.

Looking forward to the balls

Organizer Karin Lemberger highlighted the positive mood during today's event and noted that the number of participants is constantly increasing. In view of the 200th birthday of Johann Strauss this year, the Viennese ball culture is particularly celebrated and lived to the fullest. The traditional ball is not only a meeting place for young and old, but also a cultural highlight that makes Vienna known far beyond its borders.

The festival officially opens around half past eleven, when the first guests are already on their feet again to perfect their steps in the classical dances. The “Bat Quadrille” often rounds off the night in style, while the festive atmosphere lasts until the early hours of the morning. And after balls in Vienna it is traditional to visit the coffee houses early in the morning for a hearty Viennese breakfast.

The Viennese ball season is not only a strong piece of Austrian tradition, it also reflects Viennese cosiness and connects generations in dance. If you're looking for more, you definitely shouldn't miss out on the various events throughout the season!

For more information about today's start of the festival and the upcoming events, read MeinBezirk, [Augsburger General](https://www.augsburger- Allgemeine.de/panorama/ferientage/warum-ist-11-11-um-11-11-uhr-faschingsbeginn-2025-11-11-25-101935878) and Wikipedia.