Embassy of Austria, Washington D.C.

This week’s brings us to the Mirabell Gardens in Salzburg. The beautiful gardens are next to Mirabell Palace, built in 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Dietrich, the ruler of Salzburg. However, Mirabell Gardens has been perhaps made most famous worldwide by the film “The Sound of Music” starring Julie Andrews. Part of the famous “Do-Re-Mi” song from the film takes place there with all seven of Von Trapp children and their governess, Maria.

The gardens and many of the best sights in Salzburg were featured last week in an article for the The New York Times, “36 Hours: Salzburg, Austria”. Check out the link below to read the article and plan your next trip to Salzburg!

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/08/01/travel/things-to-do-salzburg.html



© Salzburg Tourismus & Gunter Breitegger

Ambassador Schneebauer welcomed Dr. Ruth Weiner to the Embassy of Austria last week! Dr. Weiner regained Austrian citizenship after having been forced to flee Austria as a young child. She went on to have a very successful career as a scientist in the United States! What a pleasure to meet with Ruth and her family.

EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE 2024 | GET TO KNOW…

Bad Aussee, another member of the 23 municipalities that are joining forces to form the European Capital of Culture Salzkammergut 2024.

Bad Aussee is a picturesque spa town that is both a winter and summer destination for visitors from all over the world. It is located on the banks of the River Traun and is surrounded by a number of gorgeous nearby lakes, including Lake Altaussee and Lake Grundlsee.

It is well known for its Daffodil Festival every spring, as well as its traditional local dress (Tracht) that are regularly worn by the inhabitants there. The town is also an excellent place to find Austrian handicrafts from regional artisans.

Each August the Congress House of Bad Aussee hosts the Association of the Vienna State Opera Ballet, and this year marks the 30th anniversary of the dancers taking the stage. The folks music group Ausseer Bradlmusi will also participate, along with the large string orchestra of the Bürgermusikkapelle Bad Aussee.



© Kur- & Congresshaus Bad Aussee, Jakob Grill

We welcomed Leadership Initiatives' Middle School Jumpstart Program to the Embassy of Austria on Monday. The program gives students a wide range of exposure to careers in public health, law and business.

Their time at the Austrian Embassy gave them a look at a career in diplomacy and they learned about Austrian history, the political system and culture.

30 YEARS OF THEATERFEST NIEDERÖSTERREICH | SUMMER 2024

The Theater Festival Lower Austria takes place every summer at multiple locations in Lower Austria and offers its audience a varied program. Enjoy 30 plays, musicals, operas, operettas and music revues at 21 different places to celebrate 30 years of Theaterfest Niederösterreich this year.

One of the opera festivals, Oper Burg Gars, takes place among the walls of a 1,000 year old castle. The opera they are featuring this summer is Donizetti”s “L’elisir d’amore” or “Der Liebestrank” in German. Enjoy a few shots of this stunning location and do not forget to add the festival in Lower Austria to your list for your next trip to Austria.

© Reinhard Podolsky & Alexander Ch Wultz

We were delighted to host so many young professionals and summer interns at the Summer Ball at the Austrian Embassy on Friday. They were excited to meet Ambassador Schneebauer and dance the night away—first waltzing and then enjoying a late-night European disco experience.

We also introduced them to the Austrian concept of “Sommerfrische”, when one escapes the heat of the city during the summer to enjoy the refreshing lakes and mountains of the Austrian countryside. We hope they will have a chance to visit Austria one day to experience it for themselves!

This week’s takes us to the heart of the Wachau Valley, where the enchanting town of Dürnstein is located.

Nestled on the banks of the Danube River, Dürnstein boasts a stunning landscape of historical vineyards and cultural landmarks. The iconic blue tower of the Dürnstein Abbey is a beacon for visitors, while the ruins of Dürnstein Castle tell tales of Richard the Lionheart's captivity.

The town offers scenic trails along the Danube and lush vineyards, perfect for leisurely hikes and bike rides. Enjoy a glass of Wachau wine in a cozy tavern or garden restaurant, immersing yourself in the region's rich flavors.

A boat trip along the Danube with the "Wachau Line" offers another unforgettable perspective of this beautiful area.

EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE 2024 | GET TO KNOW…

, another member of the 23 municipalities that are joining forces to form the European Capital of Culture Salzkammergut 2024

Nestled in the heart of the Salzkammergut region, Gosau is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This picturesque village is the perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Whether you're hiking through the majestic Dachstein mountains, exploring the serene Gosauseen lakes, or immersing yourself in local culture, Gosau offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

This summer, Gosau invites you to experience "Windows and Mosaic of Leaves" at the Kalvarienbergkirche. In this thought-provoking exhibition, the artist Grace Ellen Barkey meditates on nature and its transience. Through a blend of visual art and nature, this project aims to heighten our perception and to evoke a deep connection with our environment.

🗳🇦🇹 Parliamentary elections in Austria: September 29, 2024

📢 Austrians living in the US, listen up: you are able to vote by absentee ballot 🗳📝

To-dos:
✅ Register in the voter registry of an Austrian municipality by August 8, 2024 the latest!
✅ Apply for a postal ballot!
✅ Cast your vote and send the postal ballot to the electoral authority!

Who can vote?
✅ All Austrians who celebrate their 16th birthday no later than election day (September 29, 2024) are entitled to vote.

💡Postal ballots can also be handed in at Austrian embassies and consulates general!
For the US: Austrian Consulate General New York Austrian Consulate General, Los Angeles

🙏🏻🗳 Elections are the most important form of political participation in a democracy. So go and exercise your right to vote!!

🎓🌍 We're delighted to welcome a group of interns from The Institute of World Politics to the Embassy! These bright minds had the opportunity to explore our current exhibition, featuring the iconic work of former White House photographer Yoichi Okamoto. 📸✨

Internships are vital for anyone pursuing a career in international relations. They provide hands-on experience, a deeper understanding of global affairs, and invaluable networking opportunities. Interns are gaining insights that will shape their futures as leaders in diplomacy and beyond. 🤝🕊️

If you haven’t yet, be sure to visit our exhibition showcasing Okamoto’s powerful photographs. His work captures pivotal moments in history, offering a unique perspective on the past. The exhibition is open until August 22nd—don't miss your chance to experience it before it closes! 🗓️

Plan your visit today. Viewing hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays (except holidays) between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. Registration is required via email to [email protected]. We look forward to seeing you!

🖼️✨

We were delighted to welcome PedalPower Kids to the Austrian Embassy as part of their summer camp! 🚴‍♀️ Riding a bike is a valuable skill that promotes independence, health, and eco-friendly living.

In Austria, 1 in 2 people cycle regularly, with over 1.2 million bikes sold annually. Austria boasts 13,000 km of cycling routes, catering to all levels.

Plus, nearly 50% of car trips in Austria are shorter than 5 km, making cycling a sustainable and practical alternative. Let's pedal towards a greener future!

🌍💚

This week’s takes us to Austria’s westernmost state, Vorarlberg, where the beautiful Lake Constance (Bodensee-Vorarlberg) is located.

Nature is at its most enchanting on the shores and mountaintops surrounding Lake Constance. This is the perfect setting for all sorts of excursions around the international lake.

The lively small cities surrounding the lake boast a vibrant atmosphere. Events such as the Bregenz Festival attract international attention, as well as amazing modern architecture and the museums there open up new perspectives.

The numerous open-air pools as well as the natural bathing beaches on the lake shore offer visitors the chance to enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake.

Anyone in search of sport will be drawn to the water – surfing, wake boarding, canoeing and sailing are just some of the activities available on the lake.

A boat trip across the lake with the “White Fleet” is another highlight not to be missed.

EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE 2024 | GET TO KNOW …

Hallstatt, another member of the 23 municipalities that are joining forces to form the European Capital of Culture Salzkammergut 2024.

Hallstatt is a small market town that is very much characterized by its salt production, which has been taking place in Hallstatt's salt mountain, the Plassen, for thousands of years. With its positive business results, the SALZWELTEN (salt worlds), the local tourism company, contributes significantly to the fact that the alpine, very cost-intensive salt production still exists in Austria. This also applies to the financing of archaeological research in the Hallstatt Salt Mine.

Picturesque barely does it justice. Towering Alpine hills descend into the blue lake waters, with an adorable village nestled in between. The first reveal of the village center couldn’t have been better had it been planned by Disney. The iconic church is at one end, while beautiful buildings ring a cobblestoned Marktplatz (marketplace). You can explore the shops here, as well as climb the stairs for a view from the other church.

When in town, visit the SALZWELTEN to learn more about the history and culture of the region and the world’s oldest salt mines, enjoy the beautiful surroundings and take a boat tour on the magnificent Hallstätter See (Lake Hallstatt).

SALZBURGER FESTSPIELE | JULY 19 – AUGUST 31, 2024

Famous as a cultural landmark of Austria and one of the world’s most important festivals for opera, music and drama, the Salzburg Festival is known for its annual performance of Hugo von Hofmannsthal’s play “Jedermann” (Everyman) as well as its wide-ranging cultural program, which is enjoyed by high-ranking politicians and celebrities every year.

Today, we celebrate the opening of the Salzburger Festspiele | Salzburg Festival 2024. If you are in Austria, plan to attend one of the many cultural events of the Salzburg Festival and book your tickets as soon as possible since many of them are sold out months in advance.

Learn more about the full festival program here: https://www.salzburgerfestspiele.at/en/tickets/calendar

© SF / Monika Rittershaus (Photo 1-3) / Marco Borrelli (Photo 4-6) / Kolarik (Photo 7)
© TSG / Breitegger (Photo 8-9)

EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE 2024 | GET TO KNOW…

Gmunden, another member of the 23 municipalities that are joining forces to form the European Capital of Culture Salzkammergut 2024 .

Gmunden is a beautiful town of 17,000 inhabitants located on the majestic Traunsee, the deepest lake in Austria. It is known as a popular summer resort and artists’ hot spot as well as home of the world-famous Gmundner Keramik Manufaktur.

When in town, visit the idyllic lake castle Schloss Ort, enjoy delicious desserts at one of the many cafés, take a boat tour on the beautiful lake, or attend one of numerous cultural events part of Salzkammergut Festwochen Gmunden, Gmunden.photo and the Musical Frühling in Gmunden.

Join leading experts in informatics, social sciences, and humanities to collaborate on pressing issues of digital politics, economy, and technology at the 3rd ACM Europe Digital Humanism Summer School, which will take place from September 2 to 6, 2024 at TU Wien - Vienna University of Technology, Austria.

A limited number of scholarships, including registration fee waivers and full scholarships, are available and awarded on the basis of merit and financial need. Furthermore, the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) will provide free 1-year memberships for all students attending the summer school. The application deadline was just extended for 2 weeks—so take this great opportunity and apply by July 28, 2024.

Learn more here: https://caiml.org/dighum/summerschool2024/

© TU Wien, Photo: Matthias Heisler

EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE 2024 | GET TO KNOW BAD ISCHL

As announced yesterday, we would like to introduce you to BadIschl.at, the banner-city of Salzkammergut 2024.

Bad Ischl is a spa resort, a congress and commercial center full of beautiful parks and flower gardens with about 15,000 inhabitants. During the Austrian-Hungarian Empire, it was the favorite summer retreat of Emperor Franz Joseph I and his wife Sisi. When in town, visit the former imperial residence Kaiservilla Bad Ischl, enjoy the delicious Zaunerstollen at the café and patisserie Zauner and learn about the history of
Bad Ischler salt, which has been harvested from the Austrian alps for over 7,000 years.

Cultural highlights include the Léhar Festival during the summer, which is the largest and most renowned operetta festival in Austria, the Imperial Days, known as Kaisertage, around August 18 to celebrate the birthday of Emperor Franz Joseph I with numerous festivities, and the magical Advent and Christmas time in Bad Ischl.

Have you ever visited the Salzkammergut or Bad Ischl? Let us know in the comments.

EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE 2024 | GET TO KNOW BAD ISCHL – SALZKAMMERGUT

The European Capitals of Culture initiative is designed to highlight the richness and diversity of European art and culture. For the first time, 23 municipalities are joining forces to form a Capital of Culture in 2024: Salzkammergut 2024

Over the upcoming weeks, we would like to present to you the history, art and culture of each of the 23 municipalities in this beautiful region full of majestic alpine mountains and picturesque, deep-blue lakes.

We will start our series with a post about Bad Ischl tomorrow.

Happy Birthday, America!

Today, we join the American people in celebrating the spirit of freedom & independence. We are proud of the strong bonds that our two countries share.

On this Independence Day, just as in 1776: We all are created equal with the inalienable right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. These shared values form the strong bilateral ties that bind Austria and the U.S.

Great News for travelers: On July 1st, Austrian Airlines inaugurated a new direct flight from Vienna to Boston Logan International Airport

Here are some facts:
✈️ flight will be operated year-round
✈️ up to six times a week
✈️ Boeing 767, offering 211 seats

The flight’s ceremonial inauguration at Boston’s Logan Airport was opened with a flag raising ceremony in the presence of city officials, followed by remarks from Todd Smith, Director of Aviation Operations of Massport, Ambassador Petra Schneebauer, as well as Michael Triestl, Austrian Airlines’s Chief Commercial Officer, and Dirk Janzen, Vice President for The Americas at Lufthansa Group.

In her remarks, Ambassador Schneebauer welcomed this significant milestone in further strenghtening the ties between Austria and the United States, connecting two extraordinary cities rich in history and culture.

The UEFA EURO 2024 is in it's critical phase. Every game is win or go home.

Our ÖFB - Österreichischer Fußball-Bund squad made it into the round of 16 and will match up against Türkiye 🇹🇷 today. Here's our next little vocabulary lesson so you are prepared for kickoff.

What other Austrian soccer terms are you familiar with? Let us know in the comments.

Last week, we had the honor to host a reception for 'transformer dc', an artist-centered, non-profit visual arts organization. Transformer’s mission is to connect, elevate, and serve a diversity of emerging artists and arts leaders.

Together with the Austrian Cultural Forum Washington, we support and promote culture and art in the Washington DC metro area. Thus we were thrilled to have our guests at the embassy and the reception had a high value for us.

The night kicked off with opening remarks by the Austrian Ambassador to the U.S., Petra Schneebauer and was followed by a tour through our current embassy exhibition “From Vienna to The White House: Yoichi Okamoto and the American Century.”

It was a pleasure to meet you all. See you soon.

vienna.info was voted the most liveable city in the world for a third time in a row by The Economist, so this week's will take a look at the Austrian capital.

The Economist's rating is divided in five categories: stability, health care, culture & environment, education and infrastructure. Vienna gained perfect scores in four of the index's categories.

We simply love Vienna. When will you visit?

We have been deepening our ties with the State of Vermont under the umbrella of the State Partnership Program.

Ambassador Petra Schneebauer and and the Austrian Defense Attaché, Major General Norbert Huber, visited the Green Mountain State from June 20 to 22. On the agenda was a visit to the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe on the occasion of the 75th Anniversary of the story of the Trapp Family Singers, and the 65th Anniversary of The Sound Of Music musical’s Broadway premiere.

In addition, the delegation visited Norwich University, where they conducted a highly productive meeting with senior members of the University’s administration, strengthening the long-standing relationship between Norwich and Austria.

During the 10th SelectUSA Investment Summit, 🇦🇹-🇺🇸 economic ties were strengthened further. The summit took place just outside Washington, DC from June 23 - 26, and Austria was prominently represented by an 18-member business delegation, facilitated by the U.S. Embassy Vienna. This diverse group included major Austrian companies such as OMV, Greiner AG, as well as several successful small and medium-sized enterprises.

In conjunction with the Summit, Ambassador Petra Schneebauer hosted a ReFocus Austria networking reception at the Austrian Residence, which provided an excellent platform for interaction and collaboration between the Austrian delegation and key federal and state officials.

You seemed to like our little vocabulary lesson last friday, so we figured, we'll help you out a bit more. 😊

Our ÖFB - Österreichischer Fußball-Bund squad is facing off against the Netherlands today at the UEFA EURO 2024 - a very important game for our team ⚽️🥅🏟️

What other Austrian soccer terms are you familiar with? Let us know in the comments.

We welcomed the Wharton Club of DC to the Embassy of Austria for a networking reception following the 10th Annual Wharton DC Innovation Summit on June 21. We were delighted to have so many innovators and enthusiasts at the Embassy to learn more about Austrian innovation and the strength of Austrian small and medium sized businesses.

Today is World Music Day, which is why we’re taking you to the Donauinselfest for this week’s . The 41st edition of the vienna.info Danube Island Festival kicked off on Friday, June 21.

It’s Europe’s biggest open-air festival with free admission. In 2024, it will offer top-class music, action and a fun program as well as a wide range of other services and activities.

The festival has always stood for social cohesion, an affordable and modern Vienna and mutual respect between people.

According to the organizers, an average of around 250,000 visitors are on the island at any one time.

Are you at the festival right now or have you been there already? Let us know in the comments.

Our ÖFB - Österreichischer Fußball-Bund squad is facing off against Poland today at the UEFA EURO 2024 We thought we help you out with some essential soccer vocabulary.

Trust us, these words could come in handy, especially when you're watching the game at a public viewing venue.

What other Austrian soccer terms are you familiar with? Let us know in the comments.