Frequently Asked Questions about the Viennese Christmas Ball

What is included in the ticket price?

• An enchanting evening at the magnificent Palais of the Organization of American States (OAS), with a live orchestra performing elegant Viennese waltzes and more.
• A champagne reception, a selection of savory hors d'oeuvres, followed by a dessert buffet accompanied by coffee and hot chocolate.
• A selection of champagne and Austrian wines available throughout the night.
• Dance instructions for Austrian folk dances, as well as the iconic “midnight” quadrille (at 11:00 p.m.).
• A special surprise gift for all ladies, courtesy of the City of Vienna.

Are discounted ticket available? 

Yes! In line with the what is common at balls in Austria, thanks to the generous support of one of our sponsors, the City of Vienna, we are pleased offer discounted tickets for $160 (instead of the general admission of $200) to students with active enrollment, and a maximum age of 27 (both subject to verification). 

Do I need to bring a partner/date?

You are welcome to attend without a partner. The evening offers numerous opportunities to mingle with fellow guests, particularly during the champagne reception and throughout the event. It is customary at Viennese balls for gentlemen to ask ladies to dance, though ladies are also encouraged to invite gentlemen to the floor. Additionally, Austrian folk dances (at 8:45 pm) often feature frequent partner rotations by design, so everyone has the chance to dance with multiple partners.

What is the dress code?

White Tie and Decorations/Black Tie

• Ladies: Evening gown
• Gentlemen: Tuxedo

What is the schedule of events for the evening?

• 7:00 p.m. – Doors open, followed by Champagne Reception
• 8:00 p.m. – Grand March, Opening Ceremonies, and Cotillion
• 8:45 p.m. – Austrian folk dances
• 10:45 p.m. – Dance master teaches the Fledermaus Quadrille No. 6
• 11:00 p.m. – Audience participates in the Fledermaus Quadrille No. 6
• 11:25 p.m. – The evening concludes with “An der Schönen Blauen Donau” (The Blue Danube – last waltz)

Will there be reserved seating?

Tables will be open seating to encourage mingling and dancing. We ask that guests share tables to allow for a larger dance floor area and to facilitate socializing.

How do I get there?

• Address: 200 17th St, NW, Washington, D.C. (for taxi/ride-share services).
• Parking and Access: Limited self-parking is available in the OAS building’s C Street lot, available on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 6:45 p.m. Please note that doors open at 7:00 p.m. There is also street parking available around the building, though it may be limited due to an event at the neighboring DAR Constitution Hall.
• Recommended Transport: We strongly recommend using Taxi or Ride-Share services. Passengers can be dropped off and picked up directly in front of the main entrance at 200 17th St, NW.

When can I enter the building and how is check-in organized?

Doors will open promptly at 7:00 p.m. for the champagne reception in the atrium. Each guest will pass through a metal detector upon entry and check in at the greeting table. Please bring your reservation confirmation, either on your mobile device or as a printed copy. There will also be a coat check and an opportunity to change into your dance shoes. The ballroom will open at 8:00 p.m. for the Grand March.

What if I cannot attend?

In accordance with our Terms and Conditions, all sales are final and refunds are generally not available for no-shows, as costs incurred to organize the event are non-refundable. Refunds may be considered up to 24 hours prior to the event if there is a waitlist. In these cases, please email us at aacs.dc.info@gmail.com. A $20 processing fee will apply.

Any questions not covered here?

Please feel free to contact us at aacs.dc.info@gmail.com.