The program of the WU Ball 2026
The traditional event location in the magnificent ceremonial halls of the imperial Vienna Hofburg will once again be the festive setting for the most famous student ball in Vienna this year.
- Admission to the Vienna Hofburg.
- VIP: Reception of special guests in the ‘Forum’ of the Hofburg (access only on presenting the invitation and by prior appointment)
- Festive entrance ceremony of the guests of honour
- Following the opening of the ball by the Inaugural Committee with a choreography by the Elmayer dance school.
- Start of the raffle ticket sale
- Disco opening with student-friendly prices in the Forum
- Drawing of the raffle main prizes in the Festsaal (subsequent pick-up of the prizes in the Passageraum)
- Midnight show in the Festsaal
- Start of collection of raffle prizes in the Passageraum
- Start of distribution of ladies' and men's donations in the Gardehalle I
- 1st audience quadrille in the Festsaal
- 2nd audience quadrille in the ballroom
- After eight enjoyable hours, the C.M. Ziehrer Court Ball Orchestra closes the WU Ball at around 04:50 am with the traditional closing waltz ‘Brüderlein fein’.
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Dresscode
In order to ensure that all guests experience the WU Ball as festively as possible, we expect the usual Viennese ball dresscode and ask our guests to adhere to this standard.
Ladies
floor-length evening dress (hemline covers the floor all around even with higher shoes, slit to max. knee height)
Men
Black tailcoat (white bow tie), black tuxedo (bow tie, no matter what color) or black suit with white shirt (bow tie, no matter what color – no tie!), class A uniform / gala uniform, black dress shoes
Please note that the security staff at the Hofburg have the right to deny access to the Hofburg to guests who are inappropriately or unsuitably dressed. Tickets will not be taken back or refunded.
The etiquette and dresscode will be monitored and enforced during the event all the time. Authorized members of the organization team, the Marshall Team, the ÖH WU and the WU are required to expel persons who do not comply with the regulations from the event if necessary. Therefore, please avoid unpleasant situations in the interest of everyone.
No-Tie-Zone: Please note that a tie does not comply with the dresscode. In ’emergencies’ a black bow tie can be purchased on site for a fee of € 20.
Kleiderveleih Rottenberg
If you are still looking for the right evening wear, the Rottenberg dress hire
elegant ball gowns, tuxedos or tails can be rented simply and easily – ideal for a stylish appearance at the WU Ball.
The traditional Viennese dress rental shop offers a large selection of festive fashions in various styles and sizes as well as personal advice directly on site.
Great music programme
The WU Ball 2026 invites you on a musical journey in a class of its own, offering a diverse programme ranging from classical dance music to rousing swing rhythms and powerful rock’n’roll to the latest dance hits and the greatest evergreens. Fans of traditional sounds will also get their money’s worth.
Seats and tables can also be reserved in the preferred room to ensure an unforgettable experience.
Festsaal
The official part of the WU Ball 2026 begins in the ballroom of the Vienna Hofburg. The debutantes will kick off the festive ceremony at 9 p.m. and open the ball with an impressive choreography after speeches by the chairman of ÖH and the rector.
Towards midnight, further highlights take place with the raffle draw and the midnight show. Afterwards, the Elmayer dance school invites the audience to a quadrille.
Ziehrer Hofballorchester
The Ziehrer Hofball Orchestra is one of Vienna’s most renowned dance orchestras and stands for the highest quality in the interpretation of Viennese dance music. With great sensitivity and stylistic precision, the ensemble brings waltzes, polkas, quadrilles, tangos, and beloved evergreens to the dance floor – enchanting dancers of all generations.
Its refreshing performance style, combined with a deep understanding of the tradition of the imperial court balls, makes the Ziehrer Hofball Orchestra a true musical highlight of any ball night.
Let yourself be captivated by this exceptional ensemble and experience dance music at its finest.
Wolfgang Steubl BigBand
When the Wolfgang Steubl Big Band takes the stage, music becomes an experience.
With captivating swing, deep emotion, and a touch of big band glamour, this ensemble fascinates audiences from the very first note. Their distinctive sound touches not only the ears but also the hearts of listeners.
Tailor-made arrangements by Prof. Helmut Steubl give the repertoire its special character – stylish, dynamic, and full of passion.
The Wolfgang Steubl Big Band is more than just an orchestra – it is a musical bridge connecting generations and inspiring dancers to take to the floor.
Swing at its best – live, vibrant, and unique.
wu chor wien
Around 50 singers from diverse fields of study, professions, and backgrounds come together in the WU Choir Vienna, forming a vibrant and harmonious ensemble. Ranging in age from their early 20s to over 40, they share one great passion: a love for music and multi-voiced singing.
With genuine enthusiasm and a strong stage presence, the choir knows how to move and inspire its audience.
We are delighted that the WU Choir Vienna will be providing the musical accompaniment for the WU Ball 2026.
Benjamin Gedeon The Thumbs
Benjamin is a 19-year-old singer-songwriter from Austria. In recent years, he has performed with his band “The Thumbs” at various renowned events, including U4, the WU Ball in the Hofburg, and the ORF “Licht ins Dunkel” Gala.
Before that, Benjamin participated in the SAT.1 singing show “The Voice Kids”, where he reached the finale under coach Álvaro Soler. His blind audition has garnered over 6 million views online.
WU graduate Sandro Humitsch accompanies Benjamin on guitar, and together with the other members of “The Thumbs”, they bring every stage to life!
Performance time: 1:00 a.m. – 3:00 a.m.
Die Wilden Kaiser
After numerous successful concerts throughout the German-speaking region, Die Wilden Kaiser kick off 2026 at the WU Ball full of energy. With 100% live music, powerful original songs, and captivating covers from Austropop, Schlager, and Rock, they bring a dynamic mix of hits to the stage.
In the historic Metternich Hall, the band delivers infectious rhythms and engaging entertainment – the perfect party sound to get everyone dancing.
Those who don’t hit the dance floor here are sure to miss one of the evening’s true highlights!
Playing hours: 22.00-24.00 Uhr
Metternichsaal
The WU Ball 2026 in the Metternich Hall impressively demonstrates that a career after studying at WU can lead not only to business, but also to the music stage.
The two WU graduates Sandro Humitsch and Clemens Reinsperger, who are also former ÖH employees, will be in the spotlight. With their bands, they provide musical highlights and great entertainment.
Zeremoniensaal
In the festive Zeremoniensaal, guests can expect a unique mix of classical ball music and modern hits.
The bands Jive for the Five and The Thrill Seekers provide great entertainment with a varied repertoire of popular covers and genres. Whether waltzes or party hits – the varied dance and party programme invites you to dance, celebrate and enjoy yourself until the early hours.
Jive for the Five
Five musicians, one sound – and a whole lot of musical energy:
Jive For The Five is a versatile band from Vienna that delivers an engaging mix of rock, groovy pop, and soulful jazzto set the perfect mood. Whether at a ball, wedding, or private event – the band always strikes the right chord and provides the ideal musical accompaniment.
Franziska (vocals), Wolfgang (piano), Clemens (bass), Michael (guitar), and Alex (drums) are all trained musicians who perform with passion and experience. Their joy of playing is infectious – their music, a true experience for all the senses.
The Thrill Seekers
Girl power, vintage vibes, and bold, multi-voiced vocals – The Thrill Seekers bring a fresh breeze to the ball night.
The five young musicians from Vienna radiate pure joy and captivate with their authentic sound full of style, energy, and musical spirit.
An all-female band is still a rarity on stage, which makes the interplay of these five exceptional artists all the more impressive. They not only convince musically but also captivate with their charismatic stage presence.
Their goal: to get the audience dancing – with every note!
Performance time: 10:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m. (bands performing alternately)
Dancing Brass
Perhaps the smallest big band in the world – and certainly one of the most entertaining: Dancing Brass, led by presenter and musical cabaret artist Tom Schwarzmann, will once again create a great atmosphere in the Rittersaal this year. With a mix of vocal wit, instrumental finesse and musical energy, the ensemble will delight you with catchy tunes that will get you up and dancing. Each title is a small show highlight – charmingly presented, rousingly played.
Vocal – Instrumental – Phenomenal! Listen, dance, enjoy – see for yourself!
Performance time: 22.00-04.00 hrs
Rittersaal
Lively swing rhythms and the authentic sounds of jazz awake the Rittersaal. Powerful brass arrangements and lively beats not only create an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, but also motivate you to swing on the dance floor. With swing, blues or even tango, you can not only move to the music, but also enjoy the rhythm and the atmosphere.
Hofburg Lounge
Nostalgic flair and stylishly played vinyl are on offer at the WU Ball, when the Hofburg Lounge becomes the Vinyl Lounge and offers an unforgettable retro experience! Ball guests can enjoy the classic sounds of vinyl records and at the same time enjoy a refreshing Campari. A perfect backdrop to celebrate in the early hours of the morning and enjoy the ball evening in a relaxed atmosphere with friends.
DJ Deusl & DJ Scout
Since the early 90s, DJ Deusl and DJ Scout have been filling dance floors – especially at student parties in Vienna and the surrounding area. With their motto ‘vinyl only’, they present the best dance tracks of the last decades from a carefully curated record collection.
They transform the Hofburg Lounge into a real ‘vinyl lounge’ – a unique experience for lovers of authentic DJ sounds.
Playing time: 22.00 – 5.00
SolidTunes
SolidTunes is more than just a classical trio – the three musicians create a surprisingly full, modern live sound with sophisticated arrangements, diverse use of instruments and polyphonic vocals. Whether it’s a soulful ballad, stylish background music or a rousing party atmosphere: the band always strikes the right note and accompanies your event with musical class and flexibility. Thanks to their many years of experience in professional entertainment and their palpable love of live music, the band lends the right atmosphere to every moment.
SolidTunes – that’s Mona, Claudia, Johannes and their energetic music that makes every event resound.
Performance time: 22.00-03.30 hrs
Wintergarten
At the WU Ball, the Wintergarten is transformed into an elegant lounge with its own cocktail bar. Pleasant lounge music creates a relaxed atmosphere in which to toast your time at WU with friends and acquaintances. In addition to cocktails, you can also enjoy the breathtaking view of the magnificent buildings on Vienna’s Ringstrasse. The winter garden is the ideal place to take a break from the ball and relax in a cosy atmosphere.
Gartensaal
In the Gartensaal in the foyer, guests can enjoy a hearty Heurigen programme featuring traditional folk music. In addition to the modern sounds and elegant dancing in the ballroom, visitors can experience the atmosphere of a classic Heurigen here.
This mix of different musical styles turns the WU Ball into a particularly varied event with a variety to suit every taste.
Trio Weltlin
For the Heuriger at the WU Ball, true originals of the Viennese song and Heurigen culture take the stage: Trio WELTLIN.
Fredi Gradinger, Hans Radon, and Franz Horacek present a lively mix of traditional and modern Viennese songs, original compositions, and timeless evergreens – all delivered with swinging rhythm, exceptional quality, and the unmistakable “Wiener Schmäh.”
An authentic musical journey through Vienna’s wine taverns – to enjoy and sing along!
Playing hours: 22.00-3.00
2:tages:bart
As the sons of two restaurant owners, the show talent has been in their veins since childhood. Their love for music and their open and likeable manner have taken them to stages all over the country. The closeness to the audience and the spontaneous and creative interludes always ensure unique party and disco atmosphere. Whether it’s an improvised joke or a dance interlude, each of their shows guarantees variety and fun.
JUSE
JUSE inspires with his energetic sets and a diverse selection of music. In 2025, numerous performances and radio streams & live shows were recorded. He skillfully mixes electronic dance music, house and pop to entertain the audience. The talented mixes of current hits and classics create a lively and unforgettable party atmosphere, motivating their audience to make every event a highlight.
BEN
DJ BEN began his career performing at graduation balls in Bremen, where he gained his first experiences behind the decks. Through weddings, after-work events, and birthday celebrations, he continuously refined his style – until his path eventually led him to Vienna, where he now performs at private events as well as as a resident DJ at WU Vienna.
His sets blend house, pop, and beloved classics from the 80s and 90s, always tailored to the mood of the crowd. With an instinct for the right sound at the right moment, DJ BEN creates unforgettable party nights – true to his motto: Creating Memories.
WYZARD
Step into the dynamic world of DJ and Producer Wyzard as he spins a mix of diverse genres and hits. With expert skill and a deep connection to the crowd, Wyzard crafts an unforgettable club experience, keeping every individual engaged with his seamless transitions and captivating music selection. His signature style blends timeless favorites with unexpected surprises, ensuring a night you won’t forget.
Forum - Disco powered by Volksbank Wien
Of course, a disco is essential at a student ball so that you can really party with your fellow students! And hey: Who can claim to have been to a disco in the Vienna Hofburg? And to make this experience unforgettable, we have a special highlight for you in addition to the outstanding DJs: there are even discounted drinks!