Life Ball: A festival of creativity, cause and global concern

By Rashmi Henriques

An outburst of tradition and joy that engulfs locals while putting their country on the world map — Festivals provide an insight for
travellers. Also used as a tool for expressing social, gender, political and economic issues in a creative way.

Some festivals create awareness and raise funds for a cause. Satirical clothing, banners, and floats can be found at many celebrations. Here’s your invitation to the world’s best Street Parties, Festivals and Parades. Let the good times roll!

LIFE BALL REGION: Vienna, Austria

Known for its scenic wonderland, Vienna is full of majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes and pretty houses. However, there is a lot of madness behind this beauty. The Life Ball is a blend of creativity, cause and global concern. Considered as the biggest charity event in Europe supporting people with HIV or AIDS.

The charity event is held annually on May 31. The opening ceremony features a wide variety of music, from operetta to pop, national as well as international stars. Since its inception in 1992, celebrities including Elton John, Ricky Martin, Bill Clinton, Sharon Stone, Dita von Teese, Heidi Klum, Naomi Campbell, Billy Zane, Natalia Kills and Jenna Jameson have walked the red carpet. Every year, more than 40,000 guests arrive in Vienna to follow the colourful activities.

FESTIVITIES: The evening before the Life Ball, a Red Ribbon Celebration Concert is held every year at the Burgtheater. The concert includes appearances by opera stars Thomas Hampson, Juan Diego Flórez and Yusif Eyvazov, as well as short readings by actors Marcia Cross, Elisabeth Orth and Ben Becker. A fashion show also takes place a day before the Life Ball in the City Hall Square which is open to everyone.

Following this, the opening ceremony takes place in the City Hall for approx 3,780 tickets holders. Many halls and grounds are opened up exclusively for guests, with indulging them with an iridescent show comprising live concerts of national and international stars, DJ sets, exciting performances and culinary surprises until the early morning.

2014 THEME: This year’s theme was ‘Garden of Earthly Delights’. A style bible was released in February to offer fashion inspiration for guests. The party was held in front of Vienna’s City Hall and as promised was flashy, colourful and loud, in order to generate donations for AIDS relief projects.

VISA REQUIREMENTS: Indian citizens require a Schengen visa to vacation in Austria. The visa processing time is minimum of 15 days. For more information log on to www.vfs-austria.co.in