Spring is in the Air: The 2025 Vienna Kaffeesiederball
Every February, Vienna’s coffeehouse culture comes alive in the grand halls of the Hofburg Palace, where the city’s coffee makers host an evening of music, dancing, and elegance like no other. On February 21, 2025, we’ll gather for the 66th Kaffeesiederball to celebrate this timeless tradition.
This year, the ball welcomes spring with the theme: “Walzer-Schani – Spring Coffee.” It’s a tribute to two cherished Viennese treasures: Johann Strauss Jr., affectionately called “Schani,” whose 200th birthday we celebrate, and the Schanigarten—Vienna’s iconic open-air coffeehouses that signal the arrival of spring.
A Blooming Spring Theme
Spring’s spirit of renewal takes center stage, with the palace transformed into a floral wonderland. Pastel hues of orange, yellow, and pink will echo the vibrant colors of a spring meadow. The theme is charmingly captured in the official ball poster, featuring actor Stefan Pauser as “Walzer-Schani,” radiating Viennese charm and the playful energy of the season.
Artistic Highlights
The 2025 Kaffeesiederball promises a dazzling program of music, dance, and unforgettable moments:
A Grand Opening
The evening begins with a tribute to Johann Strauss Jr. through a series of exquisite performances:
- Ballet: The Vienna State Opera Ballet will perform the graceful “Snowdrop” Waltz, choreographed by Lukas Gaudernak.
- Soprano Solo: Acclaimed soprano Andreja Zidaric will enchant with “Voices of Spring.”
- Waltz Formation: Dancers from the Elmayer Dance School, led by Prof. Dkfm. Thomas Schäfer-Elmayer, will take to the floor with the “Tritsch-Tratsch-Polka” and “Libellen” Waltz.
- Orchestral Elegance: The Vienna Opera Ball Orchestra, conducted by Univ.-Doz. Mag. Laszlo Gyüker, will bring Strauss’s music to life.
A Show-Stopping Midnight Performance
At midnight, the magic continues with Kirill Kobantschenko and his K+K Vienna ensemble. Joined by soprano Andreja Zidaric, they’ll present a captivating fusion of Strauss’s melodies and contemporary beats.
Hollywood Glam in the Ceremony Hall
Back by popular demand, the Ceremony Hall will shine in Art Deco splendor for another “Hollywood Palace” experience. Under Béla Fischer’s direction, sopranos Rebecca Nelsen and Julia Koci will perform favorites from Cole Porter and George Gershwin. With golden décor and dazzling Great Gatsby-inspired animations, this ballroom invites you to dance the night away.
A Special Keepsake
No Kaffeesiederball would be complete without its signature farewell gift. This year, Julius Meinl has created a stunning collector’s mug that perfectly captures the ball’s theme. Featuring a gradient of winter to spring tones and delicate primrose designs, it’s a memento of an unforgettable evening.
The countdown is on, and we can’t wait to return to Vienna with you for this spectacular event. If you haven’t started planning your trip yet, let this be your sign—there’s no better way to celebrate spring than at the Kaffeesiederball. See you there!