Excitement in Vienna as everyone prepares for the biggest event of the summer. Three times a year, the world’s media notices a party in Vienna. There’s the Neujahrskonzert at the Musikverein; the Opernball in the Opera House, and the Life Ball in the Rathaus.  The first two are long-standing traditions that confirm that  traditional values sexism, racism, homophobia and snobbery are still held dear here.  The Life Ball tells another story and gives us hope.

Now, Austria is hardly the model of liberal tolerance, but since Conchita Wurst’s victory at the Eurovision song contest, maybe change is afoot.  Conchita is a guest of honour at tonight’s ball.

I went into town to take a look before the crowds gathered. I could not resist walking through the Volksgarten to see the wonderful roses. The theme of this year’s Life Ball is “Garden of Earthly Delights.” So, here some photos of roses in the Volksgarten. You’ll have to imagine the earthly delights.

http://www.lifeball.org/