he waltz evolved from the traditional Landler, played by small groups in the inns near the Vienna Woods. It grew in the Stadtpark and the Volksgarten, the city parks where bands and orchestras played on weekends. The waltz was an exciting new dance that flourished with the musical talent of Johann Strauss and his son, Johann Strauss the Younger. The Strauss Family had all of Europe waltzing by 1840.

oday, hundreds of balls take place in Vienna during the season of Fasching, which opens on New Year's Eve and is the last fling before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. Retaining the splendor and excitement of the age of Strauss, balls usually begin with a lavish opening ceremony featuring honored dignitaries, costumed dancers, and handsomely-clad young couples.

wo distinguished balls include the Philharmonikerball and the Opera Ball. The Philharmonikerball is held at the Musikverein, home of the Vienna Philharmonic. Waltzing takes place in a grand ballroom with a gold ceiling. The Opera Ball is held in the Staatsoper, the State Opera House. This is the most opulent ball of the season, with entertainment that includes ballerinas performing before the cream of Austrian society.

lthough balls are usually formal, they are not stuffy. An orchestra and two or three bands provide a variety of music, ranging from waltzes and polkas to swing, tango, and even rock as the dancing continues until dawn.

n 1978, students returning from the Stanford-In-Austria program organized the first Viennese Ball at Stanford campus. That first ball, held in Toyon Hall, was attended by 350 students. Today, the ball has blossomed into a prestigious formal affair held at spacious off-campus sites.

lthough the Stanford-in-Vienna program has been closed, the Ball remains one of Stanford's most exciting traditions. From the Opening Ceremony to the last dance in the wee hours of the morning, you are invited to join the magical celebration.