Austria — Events
Vienna Festival (Festwochen)
One of Vienna’s summer highlights, the Vienna Festival is a cultural spread of art, music, dance, theater and opera performed by top international artists at main venues around the city. There are a huge variety of events, ranging from classical to modern, with shows, concerts and exhibitions for every taste. The annual International Music Festival coincides with the Vienna Festival, traditionally opened by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
Donau (Danube) Island Festival
The Danube Island Festival has become one of the largest youth parties in Europe and attracts millions from around the world to take part in a weekend of free entertainment, music and dancing. Besides local bands and DJs there are world-famous international artists, and numerous open-air performances that take place on various stages around the island. Phone +43 (0)1 535 3535 or email office@donauinselfest.at for more information.
Austria Skate Marathon
The annual Skate Marathon is a great way to combine sightseeing with exercise and comprises a 26-mile (42km) skate race, as well as a 13-mile (21km) and six-mile (10km) run. There are open-air concerts in Prater Park to entertain participants and spectators. Email info@skatemarathon.at for more information.
Salzburg Festival
First celebrated in 1877, the Salzburg Festival (Salzburger Festspiele) features outstanding local and international performances of music and drama at various venues across town. This festival is a highlight of the Austrian summer event calendar and definitely not to be missed!
Salzburg Festival
Held for five weeks each summer since 1920, the Salzburg Festival presents a program of music and drama ranging from Mozart and Shakespeare to more contemporary works. A yearly feature is a performance of the play Everyman (Jedermann), dramatized by Hugo von Hofmannsthal. Mozart’s works also take a center stage, which is no surprise as he was born in Salzburg.
Vienna Ball Season
Vienna is the only city in the world where balls still dominate the social calendar during the winter season, and a Viennese ball is a unique opportunity to experience the sophisticated charm of the city and the famous Viennese waltz.
New Year's Day Concert
Performed by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, the annual New Year’s Day concert is seen by millions of viewers worldwide and is a traditional start to the New Year. The orchestra is considered to be one of the finest in the world and this most famous of concerts features some of the most popular waltzes by the celebrated composer, Johann Strauss. For more information, one can contact the ticket and ball office of the Vienna Philharmonic on +43 (0)1 505 6525 or consult their website.
