This famous event has been organized by a union of journalists and writers for over 150 years. It's one of the few summer balls of Vienna and is held at the famous Vienna City Hall. The dress code of this ball is traditional—evening gowns for women and a tailcoat or tuxedo for men.
While the organizers are very devoted to old ball customs, they do introduce some new traditions. Every year the ball has some new theme, usually different cultures of people around the world. Such international motives are reflected in costumes, ballet performances, and food.
The advantage of summer balls is that you can dance not only indoors, but also outside. Thus the courtyard of Vienna City Hall serves as an outdoor dance floor.
